So much attention is paid to the interior of the house we sometimes forget about the exterior. It’s the first thing that people see, and therefore well worth your while and time spent to create a welcoming first impression. Decking your halls is not just about putting up multi-coloured lights anymore (perhaps you left them up from last year?), but instead about creating a cohesive look, all the way from the front step into the powder room.

There are so many great colour combinations you can use; it’s no longer all about the traditional reds and greens. Think outside of the box this year and try white and teal, red and yellow, or even black and purple on for size. Keep the exterior style of your home in mind as well, and stay within those parameters. If your home’s exterior is traditional, it’s best to stick to traditional for the interior as well.

This issue, I thought to use the same entrance way and do it up in three different looks to show how versatile an entrance can be. The three looks are from Home Outfitters, IKEA and PC Home. The main thing you need to keep in mind is to be consistent with your colours and always think about symmetry. This will be key in creating a grand entrance this season.

Twist on Traditional
For those that love a traditional Christmas scheme, this is the look for you. It can be achieved by using Christmas greens in planters mixed with berries and twigs, garlands tied around the railings and white lights. Again, the use of lanterns is perfect to place around the doorway, and they can also be placed on stairs to lead the eye and your guests right to your door. Be sure to opt for the battery-operated type of candles when using lanterns. Safety first!! In this case, we have gone with simple black lanterns for a little drama. The twist comes in the introduction of black accents throughout the scheme. Introducing this splash of bold colour will give also you the “wow factor” you are looking for, and lets you throw something a little unexpected into the mix. The whole look is bold, whilst remaining traditional.

Rustic Chic
Consider this a mixture of modern and rustic elements, from earthy wood tones to modern elements such as pewter. The look has a country feel, but has been simplified and refined. When thinking about the Christmas season, you don’t have to stick to the classic colours or schemes. If the rustic look is for you, then by all means, run with it. Remember to add chic elements in the mix to add drama—modern lanterns, silver or bronze with white accents, and the perfect rustic wreath are de rigueur. All accessories courtesy of Home Outfitters.

Modern Christmas
Why not try an all-white look with punches of colour, what I like to call Christmas with a twist! You are seeing more modern additions to the everyday green-and-red Christmas décor everywhere. It’s a fun way to get into the spirit and create a sensation of your entranceway. I used unique white twigs to vamp up the planters. Simple glass vases with ornate decorative balls as filler will do the trick. To modernize the look we used a rather traditional wreath, but added some punchy, silver and fuchsia decorative balls. Don’t be afraid of using objects that are a little out of the ordinary to mix up the look.

You want the front entrance to have impact, but not be overdone. It is all about understated elegance no matter what look you choose. The last thing you want is to have people stepping over plastic reindeer and elves to get in your door. Remember, creating the perfect first impression doesn’t have to be time-consuming. Symmetry is key, and using colours just slightly outside of the Christmas décor box will go a long way in pulling a whole look together. Also think in layers—you want to add depth to your entranceway, so build out and group objects on either side of your door. Most of all, have fun with it! NL
Happy Decorating!!