The Art of the Entry: Designing a Grand First Impression
When guests step into your home, the entry sets the entire tone. It is the first moment that communicates your style, your priorities, and your sense of hospitality.
At Glickman Design Build, we help you shape this moment with intention so your entry feels both visually stunning and beautifully functional. A truly grand entry welcomes you home each day and creates a lasting impression for everyone who visits.
Designing a Space with Purpose
A well-designed entry is more than a pretty hallway. It guides movement, sets expectations, and helps your home feel cohesive from the moment someone steps inside.
We begin by understanding how you use your entry day to day, because every detail from flooring choices to lighting to architectural features should support your lifestyle.
Some clients want a dramatic reveal with sweeping ceilings and bold fixtures, while others prefer a warm, understated elegance. Our goal is to create a space that feels natural to you while elevating the sophistication of your home.
Architectural Features That Create Impact
Great entries always have a sense of structure that gives the space presence. We often enhance this through custom millwork, elegant columns, archways, or a beautifully detailed staircase if the layout allows.
These features anchor the room and give it a level of polish that distinguishes a high-end home. Larger entries may benefit from coffered ceilings or statement wall paneling, which add depth and richness without overwhelming the space.
The right architectural touches turn even a simple footprint into a grand arrival moment.
Lighting That Sets the Mood
Lighting is one of the most powerful elements in an entry because it shapes how the space feels as soon as the door opens. A sculptural chandelier or pendant can serve as a focal point, while layered lighting adds flexibility.
We often combine ambient lighting with accent lights that highlight art, architectural details, or a textured feature wall.
Smart lighting controls allow you to set different moods for everyday living, evening entertaining, or a soft glow for late-night returns.
Materials That Convey Luxury
Materials play an essential role in the character of your entry. We recommend taking a look at a list of quality materials Glickman often works with. Every aspect comes together to create one masterpiece, such as:
Flooring: High-quality flooring sets an immediate tone, whether you choose wide plank hardwood, large format stone, or custom inlay designs.
Wall treatment: The walls can become elevated through rich paint colors, plaster finishes, wood paneling, or carefully selected wallpaper.
Doors: A beautifully crafted front door often acts as the crowning detail. Other doors visible upon entry can also play a significant role in the entry’s wow moment.
Every material you choose should support the durable, polished feel that defines a sophisticated entry.
Design Tips to Improve Your Entry
You can improve your entry even further through thoughtful styling. A custom console table with curated decor offers both beauty and functionality.
An oversized mirror can expand the space visually while reflecting light. If your entry has room, a seating area provides comfort and a sense of hospitality.
For long hall style entries, we often incorporate architectural lighting or recessed niches to break up the space and add interest. These finishing touches help your entry feel intentional and luxurious.
Blending Practicality with High-End Design
While aesthetics matter, your entry must also support the practical rhythm of daily life. We design storage solutions that keep the space tidy and elegant, including built-in benches, concealed coat closets, and custom cabinetry.
Durable materials ensure that the high-traffic nature of the entry does not compromise its beauty. By blending function with sophisticated design, your entry becomes a space you enjoy every day rather than just an area guests pass through.
Create a First Impression That Lasts
Your entry is the first impression of your home. With thoughtful planning, beautiful materials, and expertly crafted details, it can become a stunning and welcoming space that feels unique to you.
Whether you are remodeling your existing entry or building a new one, we guide you through every step with a focus on elegance, comfort, and lasting quality.
If you are ready to elevate the first impression of your home, Glickman Design Build is here to bring your vision to life.