10 Front Entrance Ideas: Make a Strong First Impression

10 Front Entrance Ideas: Make a Strong First Impression

Your entryway sets the tone for the rest of your home, so why not make it unforgettable?

Here are 10 ideas to transform your front entrance into a neighborhood showstopper:

1. The Front Door

Start with a statement door that reflects your personal style. Whether it’s a bold color, intricate design or a sleek modern look, there’s a perfect door for every entrance.

2. Sidelites and Transoms

Those slender windows flanking your entry door might seem like a minor detail, but they pack a major punch in boosting your home’s curb appeal. Invest in high-quality sidelites featuring energy-efficient glass (like low-e glass) and a well-sealed frame to regulate your home’s temperature, keeping your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Bonus: the natural light will make your foyer feel airy and inviting.

3. Architectural Flourishes

Enhance the charm and character of your porch by adding inspiring architectural details. Consider decorative elements like columns to frame your porch, crown molding, a triangular or arch-shaped pediment, and balustrades for a touch of elegance and added safety.

4. Landscaping

Nothing says welcome like lush landscaping at the front of a home. Transform your front yard into a serene sanctuary with green gardens and tranquil water features. Create a sense of harmony with carefully curated plant selections in a mix of colors, textures and heights to add visual interest throughout the seasons. Hardscape features like pathways also serve as a nice intro to a home.

5. Gardening

Use a mix of flowers, shrubs and trees in a symphony of colors that will welcome you home and make a strong first impression. Depending on the climate where you live, you can opt for a modern cactus garden to create an illusion of blending indoor and outdoor spaces. Hanging planters, potted plants casually left on the steps for an effortless feel and garden sculptures always make a nice addition.

6. Cozy Décor and Accessories

Simple things like swapping a door mat for a rug or adding a couple of throw pillows or a light blanket on a bench can dial up the cozy of an entrance. Try hanging outdoor curtains or even add a porch swing for a wow factor.

7. A Little Lighting Goes a Long Way

Illuminate your entrance with stylish lighting fixtures that compliment your home’s architecture. Think statement chandelier, wall scones, or pathway lights to enhance visibility and add ambiance. Pro tip: choose warm lighting to create an inviting glow.

8. Hardware and Front Door Accents

Also known as the finishing touch, not only is hardware functional but it speaks volumes in style. From intricately designed levers, grip sets and pull bars to sleek modern doorknobs or smart locks, the choices are endless. When shopping for hardware, keep quality brands like FERCO or EMTEK at the forefront. Consider accents like door knockers, mail slots and engraved or light-up addresses that not only add flair but also offer practicality.

9. Embrace Bold Colors and Patterned Accents

Gone are the days of playing it safe with muted tones and designs. Instead, liven up your porch with a splash of bold colors from Sherwin Williams’ popular paint color collections. Infusing hues like sunny yellows, lush greens or vibrant blues instantly adds personality to your outdoor space. Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns, too, like geometric prints on throw pillows, vibrant striped rugs, and eye-catching tribal designs for a playful and eclectic vibe to create a stylish retreat for lounging or entertaining.

10. (Re)Furnish It

Thanks to the pandemic, homeowners have fully embraced the indoor-outdoor lifestyle, where the boundaries between outdoor spaces and indoor living areas blur seamlessly. It could be as simple as placing a couple of deck chairs on your porch, instantly transforming your entrance into a laid-back deck ambiance. Or craft your own unique entry space by repurposing old furniture with a personal touch. Breathe new life into an old rocking chair, small coffee table, or bench by adding a fresh coat of paint. Given a second chance, upcycled pieces can look as good as new.   

*Summer is the perfect time to tackle a front entrance reno project. It’s also the perfect time to SAVE on all MASTERGRAIN™ fiberglass entry door systems including our 2024 Designer Door Collection with the Sunshine Sales Event from July 1 – 31, 2024. Reach out to your MASTEGRAIN Dealer in Canada or visit our Door Gallery in Vaughan for more details.