What do visitors see when they first approach and enter your home? Are they overwhelmed and impressed by an artistic display? Do they feel welcomed and relaxed? Or are they welcomed by an unattractive exterior and, worse yet, crowded and chaotic entrance to your home? You never get a second chance to make a good first impression, so treat your entrance like it's the most important area of your home, especially if you're welcoming guests or trying to sell your house. Here are some tips to help you design the perfect entrance to your home.

Start Outside

Before anyone steps into your house, they first travel past your landscaping and front yard, if you have one. You can make your exterior more attractive in a number of ways, but the most impressive are horticultural. If you don't have a green thumb yourself, talk to a profession at your local garden center. Hanging baskets at the front door and window boxes full of flowers work well for people who don't have space for a yard. While you're at it, make sure your door looks good. Paint it if necessary, and choose a door knocker and doorbell that fit your aesthetic. These small touches can make a big difference.

Let in Light

Soften the effect of entering from the outdoors by lighting up your entranceway, whether it's a foyer, mud room, or other room in your house. One beautiful way to let in natural light is with decorative windows made of stained glass. If you have older windows, don't give up on them. Instead, get them repaired at a local shop. For example, if you need leadlight repair in Melbourne, try a well-regarded expert like Caulfield Leadlight. If you're not lucky enough to have windows in your entranceway, add plenty of artificial lighting. Wall lights and ceiling lights keep things from getting cluttered. Choose something dramatic if you have the space for it, or stick with simple high-watt lights for brightness without the distraction.

Choose Your Colors

Don't let your entranceway be drab or plain. You should paint or otherwise decorate the area in a similar color scheme as the next room in the house, creating a smooth transition between spaces. Pick a complimentary color, preferably in a slightly more muted tone. This welcomes people in your home without being jarring. Add highlights of color in an otherwise neutral space to keep things interesting.

Decorate Wisely

Your entranceway communicates a great deal about yourself and the character of your home, so choose decorations that accurately reflect your interests and ideals. If you're focused on your family, decorate your entranceway with pictures of your family on holidays and vacations. If you love sports, this may be the perfect place to store your equipment in a decorative fashion. For example, hang your bikes on the wall, or make a place to hang up your ice skates. If you want to promote a feeling of calm and relaxation, decorate with pastel floral prints or antique lithographs in delicate frames. Of course, it's also crucial that your entranceway works well for your family, offering utility as well as style. That means making a space to store your dirty shoes, umbrellas, and outwear. Welcome your guests with style and convenience.