Oftentimes we talk about curb appeal and the great affect it has on visitors’ impressions of your home. While the exterior design does have a lasting impact on how the home is perceived, the interior first impressions are also very important. The view that your guests have from your entryway will set their expectations for the home and will also affect your experience as a homeowner. Here are a few homes with different types of entryways.
Older homes were typically smaller than homes of today and didn’t have dedicated entryways. Usually, the front door entered directly to the living room. This Cape Cod Timberpeg captures the same feel. The interior looks bright and fresh, and entering into the living room makes you feel immediately drawn into the heart of the house. For everyday usability, pairing this type of formal entrance with an informal mudroom entrance can be ideal.
If you are designing a grand lodge, then an equally grand entryway may be called for. The Lincoln, NH ski lodge we featured at the beginning of the year is certainly a grand home at 7535 square feet. The large circular tower in the middle of the home serves as the entryway, with a grand spiral staircase wrapping around the room and ascending to the floors above. This type of entry is sure to wow all your guests.
Sometimes, a smaller entryway is used in a larger home to make the home feel less grand and more comfortable. This Colts Neck, NJ home is also quite large at nearly 7000 square feet. While the architectural styling of the exterior helps make the home a bit more human scale, the entryway also has a very cozy feel. With the use of simple joinery on the posts and beams, as well as soothing wall colors and bucolic artwork, the entryway sets the tone for a welcoming rather than imposing home.
Another great idea is to let the natural environment guide the design of the entryway. This Orleans, MA home is situated near the sea and has an entryway to match. The white walls are traditional coastal cottage, while the French doors create a breezy feel. The entryway looks straight through the living area to another set of windows and French doors that face the ocean. Immediately on entering the home you are connected with the sea, as appropriate for this setting.
You’re also instantly welcomed into the Martha’s Vineyard home shown below with a breathtaking ocean view out the windows across the dining room. For those who need only a modest sized home, and who enjoy entertaining, this open entry is bound to wow any guest both with its interior and exterior views!
We hope you’ve enjoyed this look at the oft-overlooked art of entryway design. If you’re looking to design a new post and beam home, complete with the perfect entryway, please contact us today.