Elsie’s Entryway (BEFORE)

Hey, there! Today I’m here to share our before photos and plans for the entryway. I am really excited about this space!

The first time we looked at this home we didn’t notice how large it was because it was packed with a ton of furniture (a giant clock, a large record player/side table and several chairs). So the first time we walked into the empty house (on closing day), we were kind of blown away by how spacious the entryway was. As we’ve begun to plan the decorations and furnishings, Jeremy and I both agree that we want to keep it pretty minimal (UGH—I used the word minimal. I promise this is just a one time thing!) because it just feels so GREAT with less furniture stuffed in there. We’re searching for solutions and pieces that are simple, useful AND beautiful.

Here’s ze plan!

I struggled long and hard over the chandelier. It was my favorite fixture that came with the house, so I considered keeping it and tried to work my plans around it. But ultimately I just kind of had to admit to myself that even though I liked it, it didn’t really match the overall style I was going for. And I really want the entryway to set the tone for our space and make a statement.

As soon as I decided to replace it, one of my friends asked if we were keeping it (hint, hint, hint). So I felt like it was meant to be.

Wow—long story about a chandelier, Elsie.

Moving on…

The wallpaper isn’t my jam. But it’s also not the worst. And somehow that DOES make it the worst because I feel more guilty hating it than I would if it had ballerina teddy bears or something…even though to me, they’re kind of equally incompatible with my vibes.

And even though I know it’s not the worst, it’s definitely not growing on me. You know how I know? Every time a new person comes into the house (friend, Craigslist stranger, contractor—ANYONE) they ALWAYS compliment the wallpaper and assume that we’re definitely keeping it, or even that we had it installed! And even after all those compliments (and the subsequent soul searching), I still know there is zero percent chance this wallpaper is going to grow on me.

It’s not you, wallpaper. It’s me.

Obviously dying to paint that door pink. It’s all I can think about. My husband has agreed to it and then taken it back several times already. UGH. It’s OK. I’m very patient and very determined. Time will tell.

We are keeping the marble flooring. It’s about forty years old and needs some TLC. We’re looking into options for freshening it up!

Last big consideration—the entryway opens up into the living room (which now has bright turquoise floors). For that reason, I’m planning to keep it pretty neutral in the entryway, but I haven’t committed to a wallpaper (still!) or alternative wall treatment. #sendhelp

The doorway had a ton of damage from a larger dog (I guess he really wanted to go outside???), but I love the door and I will make it work no matter what. Everything is fixable if you have enough time and turn on the problem-solving side of your brain. That’s one thing that this renovation has taught me. When one contractor says, “It can’t be done,” the next one will come along and say, “Oh, that’s super easy,” ESPECIALLY if you say that another contractor said it couldn’t be done. Haha!

Problem solving, you guys. Never underestimate the power of an optimistic attitude.

More before pics. (More wallpaper. More yellow. More carpet.) We’ve already come a long way since these photos were taken in May.

One last look at what we started with.

I’ve often heard that the entryway is a good place to “go crazy” with the design. Since it’s not a room you actually spend that much time in, it’s harder to get tired of bold color or pattern. But since it’s the first impression that guests have when they come in, it’s a good opportunity to show your personality and make a statement.

Ugh–no pressure or anything!

Maybe that’s why I’m a little stuck. You only get one first impression, right? xx- Elsie

Author and photography: Elsie Larson.