Full article with thanks to https://www.housebeautiful.com/uk/decorate/exterior/news/a67/6-fabulous-front-entrance-ideas/
Transform the look of your home’s exterior with these front entrance ideas from interior designer and TV presenter Julia Kendell
1. THE FRONT DOOR
It may seem obvious, but a good quality front door can make a huge difference to the appearance of your house. If you’re buying a new one, go for something in keeping with the property’s age, particularly if you have a period home. If the existing door is sound, update it with paint. Using a strong shade can make a statement, though the current trend is for pale, cool colours, particularly matt greys and chalky blues. New door hardware will also give an update and is a worthwhile investment. Avoid period designs on a modern property; instead use plain, good quality, contemporary hardware. Reclamation yards are great places to look for original period pieces.
2. LIGHTING UP
Well-designed lighting is subtle, highlighting architectural features and making the doorway feel safe. Position lights either centrally above the front door or on each side at eye level for symmetry. A small light illuminating the house number or name will make it easier for guests and deliveries to find you. If you’re lighting the garden, make sure the fittings are concealed for a soft, understated look and position carefully to avoid glare through your windows and into neighbouring homes.
3. WINDOWS AND PORCHES
It’s never worth skimping on windows as the wrong style or poor quality ones can have a negative impact on the value of the house. Where possible, renovate original windows in period properties, but if they’re beyond repair, choose replacements that are as close to the original proportions and style as possible. Invest in double or triple glazing for heat retention and soundproofing. As an alternative to white, paint timber frames in a washed-out grey/green/blue to create a softer overall look. A porch can be very useful, especially in bad weather, but can quickly become a dumping ground if not planned carefully. The style and size should match the property so that it doesn’t look like an obvious add-on. Build in storage to avoid an accumulation of clutter.
4. CREATE AN ENTRANCE
The path and drive, if you have one, should form the backdrop and not be so elaborate they become the main feature, detracting from the house itself. Unless you have an older property, avoid ornate herringbone and other small modern designs. Instead, go for more substantial and plainer finishes to suit the age and character of the house. For example, smaller cottages suit old-stock brick paths or Portland stone for a more substantial look. Tessellated mosaic tiles are the perfect choice for Victorian and Edwardian properties. Modern homes tend to sit well against a backdrop of limestone or concrete paving. The paler the finish, the larger the area will feel.
5. GOOD STORAGE
Plan storage for the front of the house – whether for bicycles or bins – as you would for any other area. Bins are becoming larger and uglier, but can be disguised by neat timber stores or willow panels in a less obvious part of the front garden. Cycling is one of the fastest growing sports in the UK, and is a great way for the family to stay fit; the easier bikes are to get to, the more they’ll be used. There are lots of lockable bike storage sheds that incorporate helmet and accessory shelves. They’re also useful for storing scooters and prams so they don’t clutter up the hallway or porch.
6. FINISHING TOUCHES
Neat greenery – such as a pair of standard bay or box-ball trees either side of a front door – looks welcoming. Choose artificial types if your doorway doesn’t get much natural daylight or if you don’t have the time to tend to real ones. Similarly, an artificial lawn is better than a rarely-cut, weed-infested natural option. Introduce colour with window boxes; having two sets allows for spring/summer and autumn/ winter planting for a change of look throughout the year.
Full article with thanks to https://www.housebeautiful.com/uk/decorate/exterior/news/a67/6-fabulous-front-entrance-ideas/