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Make An Entrance

How to Give Your Foyer a Painless Facelift

Guest Blog by Ā Britto Charette

Donā€™t let your foyer be a lost design opportunity. David Charette, licensed interior designer and principal of Britto Charette, explains how to create an entrance that welcomes guests and makes a great first impression.

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The design team at Britto Charette tackles foyers of all shapes and sizes, but three particular types are the firmā€™s focus: elevator foyers, vacation homes, and detached single-family homes.

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REGALIA ELEVATOR FOYER by BRITTO CHARETTE

According to Charette, foyers in Miamiā€™s high-rises are often ā€œdeadā€ spaces. ā€œYou exit the elevator and itā€™s a separate enclosed space, as required by code. But itā€™s anticlimactic to exit an elevator and walk into a dark and an uninspiring roomā€”especially if you have private elevator access to your suite.ā€ The answer? Charette recommends fire-rated glass that will provide views, natural light, and a sense of welcome. ā€œWe also highly recommend going with lighter-colored finishes so you donā€™t have a dark or dimly lit foyer. One full wall of accent material, such as a mirror or a vibrant wall covering will enliven the space. Another great solution is to add wall sconces or something that sparkles and gives the foyer life and character,ā€ says Charette.

When the Britto Charette team designs interiors for beach homes and vacation residences, the clientsā€™ needs are very different. ā€œThe foyers of vacation homes should be designed with utility in mind. Our clients need a place to stow flipflops and beach gear. If you have a foyer but no mud room, then consider adding hidden storage.ā€

Decorating the foyer in a single-family home? Charette says itā€™s important to assess how you use the space. Do you need a spot to place keys or to stow umbrellas or shoes? Consider hidden storage to provide organization and prevent clutter. Do you entertain often? If so, the foyer can provide a place for floral arrangements as people arrive and gift bags as they leave. ā€œI recommend placing a large mirror in your foyer as it is a place for you to check your appearance as you leave the house. It also acts as a second window because it reflects light, bouncing it around the space, and can be very dramatic.ā€

No matter the type of foyer you have, Charette says you can implement several ideas today to improve the space. ā€œFirst, ask yourself, ā€˜When I enter my home, is it organized? Joyful?ā€™ A foyer isnā€™t an afterthought. Itā€™s like the wrapping of a special gift, so personalize it. But before all elseā€¦clean it up. Remember, clean is classy. Banish clutter.ā€

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Jader Almeida umbrella stand from Sollos

Second, Charette recommends adding accessories such as flowers, candles, and even a custom scent. ā€œAnd donā€™t forget about those little details like an umbrella stand. Sollos has a beautiful piece by Jade Almeida.ā€ Charette also suggests using pedestals, on their own or in groupings of varying heights if space permits. ā€œLuxury Living in the Miami Design District has a beautiful pedestal that is perfect for showcasing your art or accessories.ā€

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Pedestal from Luxury Living in Miami Design District

Have a large foyer or double-height space? Consider installing a really dramatic chandelier to act as a focal point. Or, suspend a bold piece of art from the ceiling. You can also show your familyā€™s character with a curated collection of Instagram photos that you enlarge and frame. ā€œExpansive foyers also provide a fabulous opportunity to incorporate rugs,ā€ says Charette. ā€œWe also like to use large format art on one wall that creates a focal point and draws the eye into the home. An invitation to come in, explore, and relax.ā€

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BRITTO CHARETTE foyer at Santa Barbara Estates
Featuring FACETA rug, a collaboration with Kyle Bunting

https://www.brittocharette.com/

Latest ā€œHome Designā€ Issue

HOME DESIGN | Winter 2021 | Issue 1

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