We have all heard the expression, “You only have one chance to make your first impression.”

The same holds true for the entryway of your home. Decorating this area can be a challenge, especially when there is a small nook under a staircase. Often times people come into the store and ask if we have a bench for their entryway. After chatting for a while I often find that the challenge before many homeowners is just what to do with these often strangely proportioned spaces at our front door.

In this article I will give you some tips on how to easily transform your foyer area into it’s own special room.

Almost all foyers will have a table, or chest. It can be a small sideboard an antique chest or a Crescent or console styled table. It doesn’t really matter as long as the proportion is correct.

Keep in mind that the tables are to be placed where there will be little traffic. Place tables against the walls or in a nook area under the stairs. The best placement for tables is one at the front door and one inside the small area at the base of the stairway.

Lamps with soft lighting sets a warm mood when entering your home, place some lovely framed photos and 3 small decorative items such as candles, glassware, silver or brass items. Look for things that you may already have around the house. Find items that would make a statement when grouped together.

Mirrors, Mirrors, Mirrors. This is where the challenge always begins with my clients. "Why so many mirrors," they ask, wondering if I have gone into overkill! Mirrors add brightness, as well as dimension, which always create the feeling of a larger and brighter area. The key is to add mirrors that have personality but are shaped differently or vary in size.

Find a warm rug that blends with the colors of the adjoining rooms and place it in the middle of the floor. I prefer round or oblong, but area dimensions will need to be considered when selecting the right rug.

Warms scents such as scented air fresheners or potpourri create an instant aromatherapy to your homecoming.

Always remember that a space is not just a space. Think outside the box. When I see an area under the stairway, I look forward to the challenge of making it a new place in which to enjoy your home.