New York apartment - The entrance hall

New York Apartment - The Entrance Hall

Upon entering a home, the first space you come to - no matter what size - should feel welcoming and inviting. It sets the tone for the rest of the home and deserves your attention as much as any other room.

The Entrance Hall

• I wanted to create a wow-factor moment as soon as you enter my home, and the blue lacquer walls certainly achieve this. Not only is the colour joyful, but the lacquer finish helps to add shine and bounce light around an otherwise dark space.
• Four downlights in each corner of the ceiling ensure the room is well-lit, while a beautiful pendant takes centre stage providing an ambient glow.
• It took me a while to find the perfect rug for this space, but I'm so glad I waited as it makes the whole scheme.
• I like to have an entrance hall table so there is somewhere to put keys, and a large mirror over it - not only to check myself before leaving but also to reflect light.
• A dark hallway or entrance hall is a great place to hang photography, as it won't be damaged by daylight.
• As is typical of my style and all the homes I decorate, I love to mix the old with the new to create interest.
• My decision to enlarge all of the doorways in the apartment really pays off here, as being able to clearly see through to the other rooms creates an instant sense of spaciousness and intrigue.
• Painting the ceiling grey helps to lift it, and I chose a lacquer finish to give it more depth.