Deck the Halls

Whether your home is traditional, contemporary or a mix of both, creating a welcoming foyer for your holiday guests is as necessary as designing the perfect dining room table. According to Amanda Klein, designer for Bassett Furniture and Design, “The foyer makes the first and lasting impression of your home. It should reflect your own personal style.”

Incorporating the striking cathedral-like structure of the doorway into the foyer at Wheatleigh Grove by Pinnacle Development, Amanda chose a unique octagonal rug to accent the arches, giving the space its own allure without taking away from the home's brilliant architecture. Chosen as an alternative to wood, a wrought iron table base adds drama to the space and is accented by a glass tabletop that highlights a rich blend of ceramic, wood and leather table accessories.

“Think outside the box,” says Amanda. “For a fresh look, try a grouping of various shapes and textures on the table rather than one centerpiece.”

Inspired by the home's natural surroundings, Amanda embellished the foyer with acanthus leaf art and bright greenery that, in combination with red ceramic planter, adds a touch of seasonal elegance to the classic space. “I wanted to bring the beautiful setting inside, drawing a contrast with black to create a very sophisticated look,” says Amanda. Chic metal sconces boast simple white pillar candles adorned with fresh holly branches that unify the natural décor and the holiday season. “When you open the door and turn to hang your coat, there should be something beautiful on the wall. With a few festive additions, you can easily change any space,” says Amanda. With an array of textures and materials that reflect a traditional yet updated look, she creates a foyer that radiates a presence and echoes its surroundings.

 ...another festive foyer

To create a unique, contemporary holiday foyer, Dolnick's Furniture owner Greg Dolnick designs an eye-catching space characterized by audacious pops of color. A vibrant display of hand-blown glass art atop pedestals made from fossil stone lend an artistic feel to the dazzling foyer Greg describes as “of-the-moment.” Standing out from the tone-on-tone walls and molding, the shimmering vases complement the handcrafted glass centerpiece enveloping a stunning contemporary floral arrangement by MKS Designs.

A brushed steel table placed on top of a circular red area rug accentuates the beauty of both the metal and the inlaid wood floor. Sustainably designed with a revolutionary Armor finish, this gleaming table – made almost entirely from recycled materials – serves as  an ideal focal point for the modern foyer.

By weaving various materials and finishes into the foyer, Greg showcases his inspired interpretation of a holiday setting that captures the joyous feeling of the season. “I wanted to make a bold statement for guests when they enter the home. I want people to say, “Wow. This is cool!” says Greg. “The colors add excitement and give the room a festive feel all year round.”

Greg recommends considering brighter colors for the holidays as a fresh alternative to the traditional red and green. To create a contemporary look, focus on clean lines mixed with artistically created and fun elements with a punch of surprise.