SFGate

PYRAMID DESIGN GROUP look at the article on house today discussing and showing photos of armoires

nononanna Beautiful area! First - PAINT the space. It has to be said that a hall tree/coat rack is going to clash with the sophisticaion of the space, but the place has to make sense. So if you have to put the coats and mittens in the entrance hall for a while, so be it. Is there any way you could use the coat closet differently than a normal closet so the kids could reach?

Maybe a chest would work in hallway for mittens, hats, etc, and that way just jackets go in the closet - put two racks in the closet so one is low enough for the kids.

decoenthusiaste Do you have another entry for day-to-day traffic like kids coming and going? Your foyer deserves to be a really special place and you have a great opportunity to make a first impression here. I wouldn't turn it into the family mudroom. If this is it, why not install a lower rod to make it easy for kids to reach?

nononanna Yes, it would be great if you had a back door with a mudroom, but you probably wouldn't have asked the question if you had...

printesa I have a similar foyer. Here is a photo of it. I am still waiting for my mirrors to arrive. There will be two mirrors on the right side (60 by 12 inch) and one on the left. The one on the left is this one from Ligne Roset http://www.ligne-roset-usa.com/Products/living/entry/Frames_1405.aspx

printesa For storage, you could use something similar to this http://www.nancyafink.com/tag/entryway-storage-bench

nononanna That piece might not go with the house, but it does provice a ton of storage.

nononanna You could use a huge light fixture - it does look like the one you have is a little puny for the spot.

Design & Decor By Shelley Hi Doubleocean, I have attached a few pictures of ideas for you..
Children need easy access to storage for sure otherwise they just leave their belongings scattered. I speak more from experience with my children who learned to put away shoes, mittens, jackets etc. when it was easy for them to do so..
All of these pictures are quick ideas without the excessive cost and can be used or changed as your children turn into teenagers, which is an entirely new issue.
I would certainly consider adding new paint colour to this entry..

doubleocean Thanks for all the quick responses! how about for a rug? Any ideas for colors, style? I attached a few that I liked but I cant decide. Any suggestions or am I not on the right path for a contemporary look.

sam0705 I would do more of a geometric pattern in your rug like the first photo deco posted.

Design & Decor By Shelley Here is another idea for an entry rug..

The Color People Deepen the color of the walls. The beautiful dark floor creates too much contrast so the walls feel barren. With a deeper wall color the door trim will become an additional element in the room. Then you can use all the nice ideas above to better advantage.

antischbein I like the simple color of the entry and would not change it - all elegant houses in, say, Hamburg or Paris do this! If you can't make space for the kids in your closets, I would go with the Ikea Expedit plus the baskets that come with it - once the kids are older and you are sick of it, put it in the basement for storage. I would consider a rug with some color, a bright accent color from one of the rooms off that space. But I like the grey one Shelley posted.

bumbles12 A nice rug runner with lovely mirror on the wall. It is a lovely spacious area. It would be a shame to hang coats etc on show in this area. If you could find a nice "old world" wardrobe maybe?

carole what about a table? practical and will fill the space...

carole and a wardrobe closer to the door for the coats and shoes...

sujeki There are some beautiful antique coat armoire's out there with hooks and hidden cubbies for boots. Some have mirrors, too. I agree that the walls could be a softer color to ease that contrast and then a beautiful rug brought it. Why that space is big enough for a baby grand!

Marlene Oliphant Designs LLC Z Gallerie has a nice hall coat rack that looks like a silver tree branch, large enough to hold kid's coats and hats. I used it in the front hall of a contemporary home. Go to www.zgallerie.com. You could also add a simple padded bench with a flip-up top that can open for boot and shoe storage. A large patterned outdoor rug (attached to the floor with rug tape to prevent slippage) would add some color and warmth. To clean the rug take it outside and hose it off. Good luck!

doubleocean I like the idea of adding shelving inside the existing closet low enough for the kids to access. Having said that, I am liking the idea of creating a more stunning look with a table, mirror. Want to start selecting a rug so that I can get inspired. What colors should I consider? I was looking at browns to match the wood but I'm not sure.

bagozziclan I assume you use both closets on each side of the door as closets for jackets/coats. I am not a fan of open shelving or anything as such in a foyer as it looks too messy. It is possible for the adults to have one closet and the other closet put in shelves with the bottom shelf being approximately 3'-4' off the ground with hooks underneath the kids can hang their jackets/coats and a basket on the shelf for hats/mittens, etc. and eventually backpacks or even put the backpacks on the shelf the hooks are underneath. Not knowing how deep or wide the closets are, you could even put a plastic hanging shoe holder on the inside of the door for their shoes and treasures. This would only be seasonal storage so all winter items would go to storage and vis versa for summer. You could use the other shelves above filled with baskets for storage of other kid related items. As they grow and their coats grow, you can simply take out a shelf or raise it up a bit. Then you can still decorate your foyer how a foyer should look.
If there is room away from the stairs, I would do a rug in the middle with maybe a small circular table. Then it would be out of the way for closets and the kids won't knock into it.

carole would go for a strong dessin on the rug,and i think round !!and round table!!!black/white theme and an accentcolor,fresh flowers(or silk) and really like the bench in the blond wood(Shelley) that will give you more storage,and handy for heavy shoppingbags or shoes being taken on and of!!!

doubleocean Im definitely going to work on adding shelving in the closets. I think that is the best idea. The closets are not very big in the foyer, but I do have another closet where I can store coats. I do have a mud room but its also a laundry room and there is another bedroom there as well so that it not an ideal entry for the kids. I will post more pictures of the area to give a better vantage. It isnt big enough for a round table in the middle.

carole lots of choices!!!

ptmatthews I would do the lowered rod in one closet, a short storage bench on one side that the kids could just throw things in (with some artwork above it), and a small 2 or 3 drawer chest on the other side with a mirror above it. It's a pretty traditional look, but the furniture and art could be more modern. I would pick out a rectangular rug with colors you like, and if you want to paint, paint the walls one or two shades lighter than the rug color.

Photo Captures by Jeffery I agree add another rod that is lower so your kids can reach it to hang their coats. Add a bench so they will have a place to sit to remove their shoes. Add some interesting artwork/photographic prints on both of the walls. Add one nice sized one to one wall and an assortment of medium to small framed and non framed prints.

bagozziclan By adding shelves with hook instead of a lowered rod, I think your chances of your kids actually hanging up their coats will improve. It is hard for little ones to put a hanger in a jacket to hang up. But easier with hooks, at least it was with my three kids. They still prefer hooks and they are 13, 12 and 9. And I would tend to put the kids' closet on the right of the door then since you cannot put a table in the middle of the foyer, you'd still have room on the other side since that wall is longer and not worry about the kids hitting their heads on the corners or knocking things off the top. If you're going with shelves and some baskets, buy your baskets first and make the shelves to fit the baskets [that is from personal experience]! Good luck

Karen Bowen Interiors Think about choosing a free form rug, like a cowhide, as not to make the area so rectangular. They are durable for young kids too. Also, consider painting the interior of your front door, side lights and closet doors black to add a touch of pizazz to the space. (look at other houzz ideas for the front door option). I also like the comments to add a second bar in the closet as not to have your entryway as a catch all area and to get your kids used to hanging their coats and putting their stuff away. :-)

nononanna Size is important here - the space is large and the pieces you put there should be large too or they will look dinky. A few things, but statement pieces.

doubleocean I purchased the rug you see. I wanted the animal print that was suggested but I couldn't get my husband to agree. He is very conservative. We agreed on this piece and I like the way it looks so far. I rearranged the white chest to the side and I brought down my bench from my bedroom to see what it would look like. I'm not sure if I will go for a bench or a console table.

As far as painting, we had the whole house painted professionally before we moved in and I won't be able convince my husband to paint over the new paint. So unfortunately I'm stuck with bare walls.

doubleocean What should I add in this corner of the wall?

jjdesignkloos maybe something like this....or this....
[houzz=Scandinavian Contemporary]
[houzz=Accessible LEED Residence Mudroom]
[houzz=Valley Ridge Basement 1]
[houzz=Second guest room]

ptmatthews Nice rug - could have maybe been a little bigger. I like where you moved the chest, and still think a bench will be nice when you have some artwork, or a nice big mirror.

doubleocean I have to say, I am incredibly satisfied with the expertise in this forum. Thank you all for your help!

nononanna I'm going to offer a piece of advice here that is worth what you've paid for it - this looks like a house that could be fabulous, and if you continue to purchase small things one at a time without a grand plan, it may be nice but it will not be great.

I know husbands can be a pain in this process - they don't pay any attention until the last minute and then they don't even have the vocabulary to express their ideas, and they don't want anything amazing. In these cases, a talented decorator can make a huge difference.( I'm not one, so I'm not stumping for my colleagues.) When I say talented, I mean not just in a design sense, but in an interpersonal sense - they often know how to explain things to husbands, and because they're professional, the husband will listen. Talk to a few - find someone you're comfortable with. Mty husband responded better to men, and not necessarily a straight man. My decorator is not straight, but he's not flaming, so the hubby didn't mind him, and he had a masculine sense that came through.

It will not cost you more- they get paid by the manufacturer generally. In the long run it may be less because there are fewer mistakes. You don't have to buy everything at once, but they would give you a roadmap. And in the long run you'll have something wonderful for the same amount of money and time as something just OK>

doubleocean nononanna, how do I find a talented decorator? Angies list? How did you go about finding yours? I only have one chance to convince my husband. We bought the house a few months ago, but we really havent bought much furniture yet since we are putting in a pool first and agreed the furniture could wait awhile until we decided what to get. I would be very interested in talking to someone and getting advice and purchase once we completed the construction.

nononanna You're absolutely right that the furniture should wait until you're finished with the bigger stuff,(unless of course, you could kind of sneak it in while the husband is concerned with pouring concrete and heavyduty things like that. I have to admit that when we built our last house my husband was inundated with work, so I got to choose on my own...)

But to the point - finding a decorator .The first place to look is to a nice furniture store in your town. Find out who sells the Baker furniture near you and start there. You may not WANT Baker Furniture, but if they sell it, then that's the good store. They have decorators on staff, and you can meet them and ask to see designs they've done for other before working with them. Be honest with them - tell them you have a husband who's not adventurous and his opinion has to be taken into account - they'll know which one of their staff members is best at that.

If you don't like anything they suggest, then you have to move on. There are probably lots of independant decorators near you, and the benefit there is that they're not limited to the brands that are carried in any one store, but if they don't have a boutique of their own, you can't see anything before you buy it, and they might work with more expensive pieces than you're willing to pay for.

Definitely give the husband choices - but a choice between three or four things, not a wide open, "What do you think we should do?" kind of choice. And don't do anything overnight - it never hurts to live in a house for a while to discover it's nature. I've moved alot, and each time the things we've done quickly are the things we changed soonest...

And relax and enjoy the beautiful space and your dear family in it!

carole Most of us are just trying to come up with ideas to help make choices on what someone might like or dislike!!no money for that!!but if someone does want to employ a interieur decorator i am sure that even in america there must be ways to find out if that person is actually
trained to do so!!internet can actually help people help themselfs!!

printesa This is a discussion, not a financial advise. The person who asks this community's opinion is free to do what s/he chooses with the advise. We give our opinion and she chooses what she thinks works for her. Many of the members here are not professionals. That doesn't mean that we can't offer an opinion. If you don't like someone's advise, there is no need to be harsh and disrespectful. We are all trying to help. So, if you can't say something nice, don't say it at all.

doubleocean first off, I think I bought the right house. Its a five bedroom and I am very comfortable in it. I have moved around serveral time due to work and now I am finally staying put. I have a 7 year old, 2 month old and we are hoping for another next year. That is why I want to create a space that is both functional and stylish. I think I can have both.

I have worked with a designer in Ethan Allen a few years ago. She helped me design my living room which was a bit odd shaped because it was so wide. I really liked her and we did pay over 10K for just one room. When we moved I ended up storing all the furntiure because it did not go with our contemporary apartment. I needed to someone to be honest with me and tell me what worked and what didnt'. Friends are not so frank, they don't want to hurt your feelings so they will always tell you that everything looks great. At the end the designer who helped me at the Ethan Allen store did a fabulous job and we both loved our living room.

This house is my dream house and I have a vision in my mind of what I would like. I also know the cost of such vision and we have priorities like installing the pool, patio and buying a new car, therefore, I may just need to put things on hold. I know many of my friends budget one room or project a year. I don't think thats a bad idea especially when I plan on living here for the next 30 years.

Bargain Backer Take a look at our nice Holly & Martin selection. We have some very nice contemporary and modern pieces.
http://www.bargainbacker.com/Holly-Martin_c_4760.html

bagozziclan Family vs. career? An internet decorator and a therapist all in one? Get on, give advise/opinion, get off. It's not a hard concept.

printesa I agree..I was going to say the same thing,,,all of sudden this is a session with a psychologist. Also, no advice from her..By looking at the portfolio, there is nothing there either..a few photos of some outdated projects. If one has nothing to say in order to help the person who is asking for advice, s/he shouldn't say anything..really,,it is that simple

Arlene Warda, Architecture+Interior Design I agree with Deoenthusiast, and the others up there. And the rugs, you, Doubleocean chose. This is a beautiful foyer, and the table in the middle with area rug to square off the room is an excellent choice!....

1981janine I have a similar entry in my new house, and we've painted all three doors black. We're waiting for the floors to be stained to put up the closet doors, but so far, I love the look.

celestial I am not a decorator; I am a clinical psychologist who is finding the process of interior design fascinating from a behavioral standpoint. I divide homes into two types; a family residence or a place to entertain. A place to entertain usually contains a large foyer with good sight lines so that people can see and be seen. It has special facilities for serving food to larger crowds. It is meant to impress and convey a high level of status. A family home is meant to nurture, feed, and organize the daily routines of the children and adults that live there. It will naturally have a different feel and cohesion than the first type of house.
Our culture has been McMansioned out of good sense and taste. Many of the homes I see on this question and answer board have design flaws that are beyond the right color of paint. If you want to see excellent design, look on board a small sailing vessel. There, kitchen and living quarters are compact, functional and beautiful as well, without a wasted inch of space.

ptmatthews Celestial - I think most people want BOTH in their homes - a nurturing, comfortable environment and a great place to entertain! Finding that balance is what a lot of design is striving for. I don't think it's an either/or world.

laurae1967 The rug you bought is too small for the space. Find an interior designer by asking neighbors, upscale furniture or fabric stores. You can interview a few and see whose style you like best. Check their references before you work with them. The foyer needs a large rug, artwork on the walls and a statement piece to make it attractive. Figure out what type of style you like and go with it. Your house looks traditional so you may want to stay with that look.

printesa My last comment off-topic. We all buy a house that we like and that we think that fits our style and need. It might be a big house with a large entry or a smaller house..the decision depends on many factors. It would be great to be able to afford buying a lot and having an architect who can design a house that doesn't waste any space and who designs a house that we want. Yes, the entrance of a house makes a statement, but that is now how one decides to buy a house. I've lived in different countries on different continents and each region has a style. Styles are influenced by the local culture, economy, weather, practicality, etc. So let's not try to find the meaning of a large foyer. Doubleocean asked for advice for her foyer...we give our opinion and that is all. We can have constructive criticism and at the same time be respectful.

senab I think you should build the closets out flush along the walls, it will narrow the entryway some but it will give it a more welcoming comforting feel. Have high and low rods installed inside the closets. With you wanting to build your family your going to have plenty of family junk to hide.

senab Oh and yes you need a bigger rug with more color, paint your door, get big pictures, floor lamps etc.

Stardust Modern Design Modern wall mirror idea: like the transparent version: http://www.stardust.com/francoisghost.html

Photo Captures by Jeffery Not sure really if you need anything on that side but if you are so inclined perhaps a side table that matches the tone and wood of the bench. Then above that either a mirror or grouping of family photos or a nice piece of artwork/photo. Something special might be to have your kids create their own personal piece of art and then have it framed.

Stardust Modern Design This foyer would look instantly nice with a beautiful George Nelson Saucer Lamp available from http://www.stardust.com/SEARCH.html?q=nelson+saucer like the one installed by Abelow Sherman Architects LLC in a Park Slope New York house.

Julie Thome Draperies, Inc. You are trying to decorate a formal entryway like a mudroom. As stated above. I think you need professional help...maybe this is more house than you are used to?
The rug you have purchased already is too small and not complementary to the space. In order to save money and avoid making more expensive decisions will be cheaper in the long run to hire a decorator and not a sales assistant.

Sorry, JMHO.

Lisa Cyr I like what deco enthusiasts suggested. Make it elegant! It's a beautiful foyer. Even a round ottoman would do instead do table. If that is the way you want to go

Julie Thome Draperies, Inc. Kristina, I know you are new to the site, and you are right in all of what you say, but this site is really about ALL types of people responding to dilemmas.
I find a lot of what gets said in response I don't always agree with, but it is an open forum as such.

Whenever a poster posts a dilemma and receives answers, they need to understand that it will be people with varying degrees of qualification that will be answering.

We have some VERY astute non-professional people on Houzz who are making excellent contributions.

The poster always needs to beware of the quality of advice given on such a site.

Do not be discouraged Kristina, I for one can see you do know what you are talking about.

crp1234 I wish I had that entry! Gorgeous!

JMittman Designs I believe the rug is much too small for that space.

doubleocean I'm going to return the rug. It's 6x9. I will get the next size up. Please post some suggestions for rugs. I don't like traditional. My husband and I are conservative and we like the contemporary style.

Julie Thome Draperies, Inc. Try these....
http://safavieh.com/rugs/materials/silk?post_type=rug&collection&color&weave&shape&style&x=67&y=7&pg=2

Kelly doubleocean.....we are not saving lives here. Choose what you love, it is your home. You want the space easy for your children to use. Choose pieces that have dual purposes. This cabinet it just an idea on how to add some whimsy, it is a classic table with some fun paint. When my kids were small I hung a collection of knobs for them to use. I picked things that were pretty so it created artwork when removed the coats and backpacks for company.

Kelly anthropolgie has some fun ones

Kelly Doubleocean should have fun with the project like the rest of us amateurs do....decorating should be a joy. i don't think a home will lose value if she chooses the wrong area rug or table. It is not necessary to respond to my post, since i was not talking to you.

Marie Hebson's interiorsBYDESIGN Inc. Hi doubleocean, Marie here.

I would NOT put a small console on the wall where you have the white piece - I'll tell you why - your walls left and right are not equal, and it seems to be from your photo, that due to the size of the foyer
it feels too small for the space.

What I would do - is:
1) Increase the size of the foyer chandelier to feel more prominent and grande.
2) Add an area rug to ground the space - round feels nice to me, taping off an area is always a good idea to get a sense of the size you'd need.
3) Purchase a round table - substantial enough to hold its own in this grand space.
4) Decorate the table, or simply leave it with a bouquet of flowers - perfect introduction to your home.

Good Luck!

Design & Decor By Shelley Hi Doubleocean, you mentioned you were returning the newly purchased rug..When you are shopping for an area rug keep in mind the square footage you have in your foyer. Take a measurement of the area before you commit to a purchase. Try and get a size that fits proportionally to your foyer area..
You and your husband both like a contemporary look so keep it simple..Colour is endless, just keep in mind your children, company, etc. will be using this entry so a white/light carpet will show the traffic/dirt quickly.
I have attached an example of a rug. It has colours that will warm the space up.

Freda Valentine I love the colours of the rug by Shelley. It would really match well with the beautiful colour of your wooden flooring.

Freda Valentine I love this rug but the colour is red which would not match the flooring. In a terracotta colour, it could look stunning.

doubleocean Shelly, I love that rug! where did you find it? website please. Marie Hebson I really would like to put a round table but I still feel like it will be in the way and I really like open space. I want to protect the floors as well and that is why I am leaning towards a rectangle shaped rug. Once I get the rug then I still need to decide whether to do table or bench.

Design & Decor By Shelley Hi doubleocean, I am happy you like this design..Have a look at "Joss & Main" under " Rugs under $300.00".
I am certain you may find a few other goodies for your entry with them..They ship all over the U.S. and Canada..
They also have various sizes in this rug so don't delay the sale on this piece ends tomorrow..
Good Luck and please post a photo of your entry so we can all see the end result..

sharpkl Have you seen the pictures where they paint the doors black instead of white? Just a thought. It would add the drama of contrast to the area.

sharpkl It would be interesting to see adjoining rooms to see if it relates. I agree. That would be the homeowners call. I said it was just an opinion. Paint is not permanent.

calidesign You have a beautiful entryway, but the storage issue is important. When my kids were small, we just added hooks at their height, inside the existing coat closet. But at some point (soon!) you will need more than that for storage of shoes, backpacks, etc. You may have a place in another hallway, laundry room, or somewhere more tucked away that you could have something built in to accommodate that. It is nice to leave your main entry more open and uncluttered, with just a rug and maybe a large, beautifully framed mirror.

printesa Question for those who suggest a round table: Where can she place the round table? I know some homes have a small round table as one enters the house, but the space has a different configuration. I don't see where she could place the table other than where she now has the white chest (next to the stairs). The entry seems too short from the door to the first step of the stairs to allow a table in between.

sharpkl Here's a few of my favorite entry ideas for inspiration.

clball43 Now I know which interior designer NOT to use in Chicago.

83ocean A bold and colorful area rug with an appropriately sized table in the center. A large floral centerpiece would bring some natural elements to the space.

Debra-Debbie Gilliland-Walters Decorating should be fun whether you do it professionally or as an ameteur. Just keep trying on ideas. You will figure it out. Decorating can be frustrating at times, but when you hit it, it's such a feeling of accomplishment. Hire a decorator or not. Decorators do not always come up with the right ideas when you are trying to find yourself. I love your house. A formal house can be just as warm and inviting as one that is not formal. You just had the house painted so you can choose colorful accessories to warm up the space or you can go with less color to create a stunning cool elegant entrance. You will find your voice. For me making sure that things are returnable is a must. Decorating is much like trying on clothes. They look great on the rack or on paper when speaking of decorating, but trying them on is a whole other matter. Good luck and may your home be blessed and filled with love from this day forward.

Debra-Debbie Gilliland-Walters Mistakes are easily fixed. It's not like cutting off a arm or leg, decorating can be changed. Please enjoy all we poor ameteur people who are just wanting to lend a hand to someone. It's decorating for Christ's sake, not some political move that will thrust us into economic chaos. Ok now I'm ranting. Sorry! Please have fun with however you go about this. Some of the most fun I've had has been with my decorator, who was licensed and bonded and as serious as a heart attack about what she does. Please be blessed doubleocean.

Debra-Debbie Gilliland-Walters I can't help but read you. You will not shut up. You are everywhere. I am saying what just about what everyone else thinks. This is not the way to get business. Better hire someone who can teach you about how to open doors because they definitely left that out at your "decorating college". No amount of knowledge in the world can build your business if every word that comes from your mouth turns people off. I won't see your reply because I'm going to delete this app. You have ruined this site for me. Here women stick together and everyone has something of value to give. GO AWAY! Better yet stay because I am going. Bye ladies.

Debra-Debbie Gilliland-Walters By the way I didn't say don't express your opinion. I said STOP BEING NASTY TO AMETEURS WHO WANT TO EXPRESS AN OPINION. You don't get anything anyone says to you. This is not helping your credibility. Just sayin'.

JUL313 Gallery Great space to work with!! Don't forget about art. A large piece will work great in that space!!'That would really bring out the space. I have just completed some that would look awesome!!! I also do commission work. Contact me at julie@jul313.com or visit my website at www.jul313.com. Good Luck to you.

mrspalmerjones LOL. This is HILARIOUS! People, just ignore what you deem to be negative people posting and give your advice. I am sure that we can all just disregard stupidity.

Anyway - I am a trial by fire kind of person with decorating. Sounds like you have quite a bit going on, so take some time to live in your space. I LOVE those little paint cans that are like $2 from Lowes - allows you to test out colors before you make a commitment. I would try painting larger swatches at different points of the wall since the ceilings are so high.

Also, brown paper is great. You know the stuff that you use while building to protect the floors? You can cut out different sizes to simulate rugs before diving in to a purchase.

Lastly, I agree with some of the others - I think of a foyer more for guests and an opening to your home. Do you come in through your front door, or do you come in through the garage? If so, maybe you can have a mudroom/mudroom furniture at the garage to house family stuff like coats and jackets and leave the foyer for guests. Also, I am sure that you have an end table or something that you can put in your foyer, if you are leaning for a piece of furniture. After living with it for a few days, should give you a better perspective on the size and scale of the furniture you need for your foyer.

You have time, it's yours for a while! :) I would just test things out for a week or so and then dive in.

I hope this helps!

JMittman Designs Aw. This is just so mean people.

feeny Good heavens, when did Houzz design discussions become a competition? People are just brainstorming about design ideas. Take them or leave them. If you post on Houzz you have to get used to it being a forum that includes both amateurs and professionals. That is simply the model Houzz uses. Hopefully everyone who participates can be respectful of others, even if you disagree with their design advice.

bagozziclan These are people who are DIYers who want a beautiful home and just need some creative insight from someone else's perspective. Many of these people don't want to hire a decorator and that's okay. Don't take it as a personal issue against decorators [as I am one myself and do not find any insult to it]. It's the same thing that people have been doing for years -- it's nothing new. That's like getting mad at publishers who publish decorating magazines which non-decorators purchase and read.

If you have no advice to offer this family, then don't offer any at all. Period.

bagozziclan On the emails you receive are not from individual users, but actually from Houzz.com and that is how you set up your initial account. At the bottom of each email there are two green lines. One reads "Stop notifications of new comments on ONLY this discussion" and the other reads "Stop notifications of new comments on ALL discussions." You merely need to click on one of those links and it will stop emailing you. EVERYONE who has a post on this forum gets an email every time a new comment is posted.
If you want to see completed foyer, then please be patient. Give her time to pull it together.

printesa = I am one of the ones who suggested a round table at the very early stages of this discussion. But that was before homeowner provided additional photographs and we couldn't see where the stairs were located. After new photographs, we all had a better idea of the scale of the foyer. Now we see the stairs and the foyer from other angels and a round table will just be in the way. I do feel; however, a big round rug is still not out of the question. I would also eventually take up the carpet on the stairs, finish the stairs and do a runner of either carpet or sisal.

feeny May I respectfully suggest that you spend some time reading a variety of Houzz design dilemma discussions and see how other professional designers conduct themselves, and how courteous postings are the norm here? It is probably good to remember that all Houzz posters, but perhaps especially professionals, are judged not only by the quality of design or construction advice they give, but also on their courteous demeanor towards others, whether those others are homeowners giving advice to other homeowners or professional designers offering their valuable ideas. No one wants to work with a professional who is rude or dismissive towards others. So if you are posting comments on Houzz design dilemmas in order to enhance your professional reputation, it is important to be mindful that one's reputation involves assessments about interpersonal skills as well as design training and taste.

jandority Back to the original question. How about a ;ow-boy dresser repurposed for storage? The bottom drawers can be removed and a bottom built in for storing shoes, maybe even backpacks? You could really reach and express yourself with the styles available, especially second-hand stores for a one-of-a-kind look

jandority Embarassed myself, erred in not veiwing all photos. No wall space for dresser. Some great ideas. Did you decide on what to do with the wall to right of door?

Sue So How lucky - 2 closets! Kiddos definitely require customized space for self help. I agree with redoing the kiddo closet with low hooks, and using the upper half for storage that you can reach. Maybe put a small stool inside for them too - we love our collapsible plastic ones that the toddler can unfold. On the inside of the door, hang one of those shoe holders that are pockets - clear is best so they can see inside - then label for gloves, hats, scarves, goggles/sunglasses. Hang it low using 3M hooks that don't require drilling. Then, a kid sized stool/bench/ottoman for them to sit while they gather themselves. I see your tastes run modern and I've seen at least one of those benches in kiddie proportions. I would love to have this space and make it perfectly functional for a real life family! Can't wait to see what results.p.s, if you can't decide between table or bench, do table with seating that can slide under maybe? If you expect shoes to come off and on here definitely need seating.

Sue So Just saw this adorable mini sized coat tree in case you're willing to have items out in the open. http://www.inmod.com/pkolino-furniture-clothers-tree.html

printesa I know this is a bit too modern, but it might work. They come in different finishes. Check this site and see if you find something that works for you. You could have a local make something similar and to your specs http://www.arredokit.it/index_eng.html

Gloria Jaroff, A.I.A. Every design project begins with a story. what is your story? What are trying to achieve in the space? What feeling do you want to convey? What function(s) ? If it feels too open do you want to make it cozier? Or do you want it to say "grand entrance" ? Do you want people to stop and notice that it makes a statement about your home? Or do you want people to walk through quickly into the living spaces?

maxdc When my kids were little we used Elfa closet shelves from The Container store to convert our hall closet into a functional closet for their gear - low rod for their hangers, pull out baskets for mittens, boot tray on the floor, hooks on the inside of the door, etc. It worked really well and was less cluttered than having baskets in the entryway, but admittedly, ours was a lot smaller then yours so we didn't have much choice!

doubleocean printesa, I think that is a little too modern for me. I have decided to add shelving to the existing closets on the sides for the kids coats. I talked to a few friends and because I do expect for my guest to take off their shoes when they enter, I need to have a bench and some sort of storage for their shoes. I really like the look of the console table with a mirror so I was looking for a contemporary console table that I can fit a bench under. This is not easy to find. If anyone sees one please post. Also as of now the dining room is bare which is the adjoining room to the right on my picture. I am leaning towards espresso colored dining room set so I could go for a brown or black console. I saw this table but unforutunately I can't squeeze a bench underneath.

Gloria Jaroff, A.I.A. architect or decorator - no difference. Every room/space tells a story. If you start from there the rest falls into place. Just ask the right questions.

printesa Doubleocean- What would be the size of the console? I know I looked for one for a while and I could only find something in UK. So, I decided to have a bench custom made (same reason as you,,shoes off when coming in the house). There is a site for custom made furniture (www.custommade.com). You can find there all kinds of furnishings and I'm sure that if you find someone who does something that you like, they can work with you and also get it for a fair price.

Sue So Hard to gauge your taste from the small photo. R&B will do parson in any size. Crate & Barrel has several. Pottery Barn for more transitional (in sequence below). For function, I would opt for storage ottomans that roll to make it easier on guests to pull out...but that's just my experience.

bigbama9 Photos and a chandelier

bigbama9 That's lower

printesa Advice can come from multiple sources (professionals or amateurs) and we pick what we like.

jandority I feel the need to defend this process, I'm brand new and loving it, Thank you though for your perspective and reminding me that I could be more informed.

camillealbert This is unbelievable. I thought we were here to help with interior design. I missed the earlier posts because they were deleted. What the heck ??????

Sue So More drama than Downton Abbey! 'Cue sunny and ridiculously happy scene of perfect foyer...then play ominous music...' Wait!! What were we doing again? Helping her find a modern console with room for a bench underneath right? Any ideas for her? Sounds like she could use rug suggestions too.

sharpkl Kristina, I am not being critical here just trying to add constructive criticism to you.
Maybe you need to find a blog concerning the psychological side of being a decorator-designer. It is such a multi-layered field. Design expertise is only a fraction of the skills you need. A large part is the psychological aspect. It seems to me there may be a small language barrier. It may be our "American" slang. It is confusing I am sure. It will be harder on a blog because people cannot hear physical intonations when you speak.
This blog is more of a "brainstorming" for the person asking for advice or opinions. It has nothing to do with competition. It is about throwing out ideas and seeing if they stick to the wall.
Good luck moving up in your career.

sharpkl Hi doubleocean,
I guess this has been quite an experience for you. Hopefully you will keep posting and we will get more on track. Actually I have been looking online for a foyer table for a bench also. That is why I made my suggestion a hundred posts back. Lol they are definitely hard to find and a decorator or furniture store may be the only resource, since they are using that combination regularly.
I have seen really nice storage ottomans at home goods/ Marshall's if you have one in your area. If you find a source I hope you will post it.
Kathy

Interiors by Kristina Discussion should be about foyer. There is no progress in it. Neither owner of house provided information on dimensions or nobody calculated from photo. That is easy to do. You are selecting rugs and consoles not knowing what what is a size of the wall. that discussion is very long by now. I removing my statement once someone respond to it. Home Goods and Marshall's Ross all of them are outlets. Merchandise vary in stores within same metro area and is subject to availability. Owner of the house did not make it public where house is. It is not a matter of privacy.

Interiors by Kristina It is difficult to determine reasons for all of the preferences. The various areas of art in which visual preference was found include color, composition, balance, and shape or form. Interior is a unit which can be broken into those elements. Designs are rooted in aesthetic preferences. Visual elements and style play important roles in one's visual preferences during the aesthetic experience. Social preferences do exist.

tuakli Hi,
I am new to Houzz but would like to ask for some advice on my basement. Is this the right forum? My basement is huge and not used at all. As you can see we pretty much just dump unused furniture down there. I would like to make it more user friendly without changing the new carpet if possible. There is lots of light but it is totally 'open plan' except for one ( unused of course) bedroom with a bathroom . See pictures below. If this isn't the right forum I would appreciate it if someone could point me in the right direction. Thank you

jandority tuakli, there are many people ready, willing and able to help you with the fascinating challenge but you need to start your own thread from the beginning rather than post inside someone else's issue. Also new to Houzz so I can't tell you just how to do that, only that it needs to be done. Hope this helps. Love your "problem"!

tsudhonimh " I have two small kids and they cant put away their jackets in the coat closets because they don't reach." That one's easy: Alter one of the closets by installing a lower hanging rod so they can reach. You could have double rods, with adult jackets above.

Add a shoe holder with pockets low on the inside of the door for their gloves and such.

You don't say what your preferred furniture style is: whatever it is in the rooms to either side should start in the entry to introduce your house.

A small bench for guests and family to sit on for removing boots, perhaps symmetrically placed, one on each side, with art over the bench.

A well-proportioned and easy to clean rug in the center.

sunmaiden I agree with the above person, but install hooks on 1x4's instead of rods with hangers falling down to encourage them to hang up, and also put a shoe shelf for boots, etc. Give each child one closet and make it fun inside for them. You take your coats, etc. somewhere else.

I see a couple of things from the pictures, you need new door hardware, paint that entire area to make it look more contemporary. Get a glass door and do something with the sidelites. You say you want comtemporary, but the house looks traditional, have someone box up the Round Pole or see if it can be removed.

My suggestion for the Rug, go round so the room doesn't look so boxey.

Katelyn For a big foyer, a round table in the center of it does look nice but not practical for a family with two small kids. They tend to run around and might get injured by rush into it. Not to mention to put fragile stuff on top of the table. They might be knocked down and broken.
A simple bench with a pretty mirror or painting on top of the wall would be nice, I think.

printesa Kate, a round table is nice, but it doesn't work with this foyer. It is not large enough. If you look at the other photos posted by Doubleocean, there is no space for a round table. I have a neighbor who has a very similar foyer and a round table doesn't have space. Some console tables would work there and mirrors.

pipeman1 I have three grown children and now 6 grandchildren. I can tell you from experience that coats and bags at the front foyer will look very messy! The suggestion to find a coat armoire sounds ideal. And, as I always suggest, just type in "foyer" in Houzz and you have hundreds of inspiring ideas in front of you. Great house, by the way! Good luck to you and your family.

Interiors by Kristina If you want to make it more children friendly go to Toscano design Get sculpture of jumping girl. Other sleeping angel place on a wall. So all that mess will become your decor.

Jump Rope Jane, Little Girl Statue

Saying he needed to "capture the memory in time, this breathtaking little girl sculpture was originally commissioned by a doting father as a one-of-a-kind work of art. Using a rigid metal jump rope, the artist suspended the motion of this Design Toscano exclusive nearly life-size little girl in mid-jump. Sure to be the signature piece of your garden, it amazingly details the dimpled cheeks, flying hair, and pure joy that define the magic of childhood. Cast in quality designer resin, and finished in a antique stone finish, it is hand-painted one piece at a time. Another quality childhood statue from Toscano! Simple assembly required. Bring inside during freezing temperatures.

20"Wx16"Dx48"H. 58 lbs

Jump Rope Jane, Little Girl Statue
$399.00
In Stock

Interiors by Kristina So what is wrong. Why owner of the house can not provide measurements for foyer ???