VIDEO - Front Entry Envy

Hey there! In this week’s video I am going to walk you through some super easy ways to dress up your front entry way that will make you the envy of your neighborhood.

These days, a lot of neighborhoods are designed with very similar looking houses lining the streets. There are often restrictions on the colors and materials you use on the exterior of your home and sometimes there are even rules about the trees and landscaping you install. So, it can feel challenging to create an exterior that has any of your personality or added interest.

So today I want to give you a few ideas that you can easily and fairly quickly implement to give the front entry of your home just a little something extra.

Also, I found myself writing this weeks video and realized all the advise I was giving you guys, I also needed to actually implement. So I am coming at you today from my own front entry as it sits here the very first week of May. I thought it might be fun to film this first part of my video in front of my before and the next part of the video after I have taken all the steps I am going to tell you to take. I also have a few great photos I am going to share with you for some extra inspiration. Ok, this is a bit crazy, but I will see you in a couple weeks right back here. Well, a couple weeks to me, a couple seconds for you.

Here I am now in front of my completed entry! Let’s get into the steps I took.

#1 Painting Your Front Door

Ok, first on my list is painting your front door. I have seen way too many white front doors in my time, so this is THE easiest way to give your entry some love. Pay attention to the colors that are already used in your exterior finishes – we want to select a new color for your door that works well and doesn’t clash with your other colors, but still creates the drama you are after. Let me show a few great examples of using paint to create impact in an entry.

You can see in these photos, how the colors chosen for the doors both complement the homes siding, and also create real pop and interest. And don’t be afraid to change the color up every few years to keep things looking fresh. I actually didn’t dislike my previous door color, but I wanted a change and something a little more dramatic.

#2 Lighting Your Entry

Ok, let’s move on to idea number 2, which is lighting. So often overlooked, great lighting at your entry way can really set your home apart. Most builders install very basic and let’s face it, boring light fixtures on the exterior of homes. But you don’t have to spend a lot to create some real interest. Let’s look at another few great examples where an easy update has real impact.

Each of these photos showcase light fixtures that work well with the style of the home, are a nice large scale and add some personality. And of course, function well for properly lighting the entry way. Make sure whatever fixtures you select are wet rated and designed for your weather.

#3 Let’s Talk Hardware

Next, let’s talk hardware. Updating your handles on your door, your doorbell and mailbox, can really update your entry and create such a nice first impression for visitors. It is sometimes these often overlooked pieces that make such a difference. But before you hit add to cart, make sure your hardware selections also tie into the style of your home. So for example, if the exterior of your home leans towards a more traditional style, don’t go for ultra modern sleek fixtures and hardware. And vice versa, if you live in a contemporary home with straight lines and modern finishes, don’t select hardware with curves and lots of detail.  

#4 Layering Accessories

Lastly, my favorite part of designing a beautiful front entry is layering in accessories. Start with an exterior rug. This could be a simple woven jute or a If you have room, add a chair or some decorative lanterns or planters. Also, take a look at your landscaping to see how you can use plants to add to the look you are after. Sometimes carefully selecting just the right peony or hydrangea to flank the sides of your walkway or porch steps can be the perfect final touch.

Ok, now I am feeling like a rest after all my hard work implementing this myself, so good luck everyone. I hope you found today’s video about creating a show stopper front entry helpful. I would love to see what you are able to create.

Thanks so much for watching and stay in touch with us on Instagram or by popping us an email. I will see you in the next video!