Few homes have an entrance hall that is large enough to decorate with ease, areas of just 2x2 metres are the norm, and this makes it difficult to add any decorative item. However, it is often the case that when space is not a problem, the area is still not adequately used. A well thought out combination of paint, lighting and, if it fits, furniture, are the key.

When space is at a premium
In this case, the key could be the paint. If the wall in front of the front door does not have a wardrobe it can be painted with a technique such as the sponge, cloth or watercolour effect. This provides the entrance hall with personality and you simply have to choose colours that are not too dark to avoid depriving the area of light. Red, orange, yellow and stone shades are the most appropriate.

An entrance hall of this nature does not require any further decorative elements apart from the lighting. If the ceiling is lower than 2.45 metres, it is not advisable to add a ceiling lamp, since it could obstruct the front door and get in your way. In this case, a wall light or a light directed inwards could be the better option, as this will not blind you when you enter the house.

If space is not a problem
An entrance hall with enough space to fit several people, allow them to leave their coats and move with ease is to by welcomed. But the lack of furniture can give it a cold air.

One piece of advice is to place a table or chest of drawers along one of the walls, preferably the one facing the front door, with a lamp fitted with an energy-saving light, which can be left on in the evening. On the piece of furniture you can place a key holder to ensure important items such as keys and mobile phones are always easily located. Finally, some fresh flowers in a vase are the best welcome you can give to any visitors. On of the other walls it would be useful to hang a full-length mirror, to have one last look at yourself before you leave the house. The rules of Feng-Shui state that this should never be placed opposite the front door. A bench or small armchair is somewhere to leave visitors' coats if you don't have a coat hanger. Finally, a rug will add warmth to the area.

As for the walls, in this case you can play with decorative paint, and one of the most effective techniques is stripes halfway up combined with a cloth effect using two shades of the same colour.