Designer's notes

A Beautiful Styled Hallway for the Entire Family to Enjoy

My client’s family home benefits from a wonderfully wide entrance hallway that has a patterned marble floor that was lovingly installed by her father-in-law more than 20 years ago. The brief was to style the entrance hallway to its maximum potential, without changing the doors, flooring and existing lights, so that it would become a stunning area that would appeal to both family and guests alike. Given the intricate flooring, the decision was made to follow the colour palette set by it and to further build upon it. We added a large statement console (with storage for practicality) with an equally stunning mirror atop to maximize the light and aesthetic potential. We styled the console with a beautiful large blue vase, some books to reflect the interests of the clients, and some gorgeous candles to add a warm welcome. Underneath, we added two beautiful blue velvet stools for occasional seating and shoe tying purposes. In order to maximize the space the hallway presented, we commissioned a custom piece of art for the right sidewall. The pictures do not do this art deco inspired piece justice which is beautifully textured and painted. I often advice clients to consider commissioning a piece because it can capture their personal preferences and the requirements of the space in a way that a store bought piece may not be able to. It may cost a bit more, but art is something to be enjoyed forever and cannot be an afterthought if we are to maximize the styling potential of a room. On the further left-hand corner of the space, we added a compact swivel chair in grey velvet and additional light via a floor lamp. We have added two keepsake boxes to the wall above the chair. What we put up in our spaces should be personal and represent our families, lives and passions in the best way possible. The first box contains coins and an anklet belonging to the clients' great grandmother dating from 1804. The second box contains wedding cards and other documents important to the family. The beauty is that the content of the boxes can be regularly changed and the whole family can now enjoy the small pieces that document the family’s history over time.