INTERIORS BY INGRID
THE SECRET OF CREATING THE PERFECT ENTRANCE HALL
"The entrance is where you welcome guests, so you want to design a space that makes a statement and gives a good first impression."
Mulberry Lodge in Hale, Greater Manchester is a stunning manor building which deserved a grand entrance, and after some renovation and carefully chosen décor for the entrance hall, hallway and staircase, we were able to provide the homeowners with an entrance they could be proud of.
"Opt for light-neutral tones in the entrance way to create the illusion of an open, bright space as you enter the home."
Ingrid Sirova from Cheshire based Interiors by Ingrid shares her tips and tricks to help you create the perfect entrance in your home.
Lack of natural lighting
Lack of natural lighting
Lighting is a significant factor to consider when designing any space within the home, and darker toned walls can give the illusion of a smaller area.
Ingrid advises opting for white or light-neutral-coloured walls to create a brighter entrance way as you walk through the door. “We chose to redecorate Mulberry Lodge’s walls white, creating a clean canvas to design the space with,” she says.
“Being particular about where you place your light fittings is also important. We positioned the lighting in strategic positions to accentuate the artwork and sculptures.”
For the panelled walls and narrow hallways, Ingrid selected solid glass drop wall lights with antique brass arms, adding feature lighting to the walls as well as the ceiling. This not only added extra light, but also added the desired luxurious feel.
Lighting is a significant factor to consider when designing any space within the home, and darker toned walls can give the illusion of a smaller area.
Ingrid advises opting for white or light-neutral-coloured walls to create a brighter entrance way as you walk through the door. “We chose to redecorate Mulberry Lodge’s walls white, creating a clean canvas to design the space with,” she says.
“Being particular about where you place your light fittings is also important. We positioned the lighting in strategic positions to accentuate the artwork and sculptures.”
For the panelled walls and narrow hallways, Ingrid selected solid glass drop wall lights with antique brass arms, adding feature lighting to the walls as well as the ceiling. This not only added extra light, but also added the desired luxurious feel.
Modernising whilst retaining the home’s character
Whilst a modern home is desirable, Ingrid emphasises the importance of character within the home. “Particularly with older buildings like Mulberry Lodge, it’s advisable to utilise the existing period features in your home,” Ingrid explains. “More contemporary wall moulding was chosen to complement the existing architectural details, and to give the walls more personality.”
“We were very keen to keep all of the original Victorian features, including the stained-glass skylight above the stairs, which meant the chandelier we wanted could not be installed in the traditional way. Instead, we designed an exquisite, bespoke chandelier displaying two rows of 100 bronze buds,” says Ingrid.
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If you’re struggling to find light fittings, furniture or décor pieces which work with the space or features of your home, she advises contacting an interior designer who will be able to design and create bespoke feature pieces, tailored to your home.
Ingrid says: “Using mirrors will add depth to the space. We sourced a lightly foxed antique mirror which offers a softer feel to the harsh new mirror glass. The mirrors were made using traditional Victorian techniques to create the authentic glass, adding character and depth to the space.”
Working with a narrow hallway
Ingrid explains how using artwork is a great way to utilise your long and narrow hallways, transforming it into a unique and stylish art gallery.
“We appointed an artist to collaborate with and create a limited collection of artworks to be displayed in the hallway, turning it into a private gallery,” she explains. “The colour scheme was based on the materials used in these areas, adding the luxurious gold leaf for an elegant and classy touch.”
Add smart tech
Smart home automation is becoming increasingly popular with homeowners who want to elevate their interiors and make their daily routines more convenient. But more importantly, these additions can also add value to your home and reduce utility costs.
“Incorporating smart tech into your dressing area and bedroom will allow you to automate lighting, window treatments, heating and air conditioning, which will bring the whole design together while helping to lower your energy bills,” says Ingrid.