Since we only have one chance to make a good first impression, it’s very important that the front entrance of your home be welcoming, open and exude positive energy – all in an effort to provide you with balance and harmony the minute you enter your home, Welcome to your sanctuary.
This isn’t meant to be a lesson in Feng Shui, however incorporating some basic Feng Shui principles into the design of your entry, will direct the flow of good energy
into your home and set the stage for what’s to come. This 3000-year old Chinese discipline believes that all elements within the home – when appointed in a certain way –will create a well-balanced, healthy and prosperous life.
So, welcome the good energy in and re-new your spirit by introducing some of these inviting elements into your main entry foyer. It’s makes good design sense and supports a positive energy flow.
A Clear Path. Clearly define a path to your door, which leads into your home. Line the path with beautiful natural elements that will draw the energy in.
The Front Door. The front door sets a tone for what lies inside. Make sure it compliments your home’s architecture and if at all possible introduce some glass to allow in natural light. Consider painting out your front entry door black or red. A red door will naturally draw the positive energy into your home, and a black door will draw in wealth.
Focal Point. Create a landing station or focal point somewhere in your foyer. A console table with your favorite piece of art above will evoke a positive feeling every time you walk through the door. Add some fresh flowers for that special touch.
Storage. To maintain a calm atmosphere, remove any clutter and provide a closet to store coats, jackets, backpacks and anything else to keep your entry clean and well organized.
Lighting. Beautiful wall sconces and garden lights lining the pathway will create a warm welcoming atmosphere leading into your home. For interior lighting either recessed lighting on dimmers or a central fixture will provide flexibility in ambience. Add a sophisticated table lamp on your entry console table to highlight that favorite piece of art.
Sound and Reflection. The water element is not only soothing to hear, but attracts positive energy into your space. Tabletop fountains with the sound of water trickling over the stones, soothes the soul and energizes the spirit. A large mirror positioned on a wall perpendicular to the front door, will expand your space and reflect a neighboring room.
(Never place a mirror directly in front of entry door – as the good energy will be repelled back out).
The main foyer not only welcomes you and your guests into your home, it also sends them off – back out to the world, so it’s important to provide a smooth transition from the exterior to the interior and vice versa. Consider extending similar flooring material from the entry porch into the home, so why not paint the interior of the main entry door the same color as the exterior color
. (Even if it’s not the same color as all the other doors). Setting your entry door apart from all others lets everyone know the direction they’re headed.
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Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.
