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Front Door Décor: How to Make an Entrance
This week’s article is from our partners at The Scout Guide, giving insight on how to embrace your front door with décor.
Your front door décor deserves the same level of thoughtful consideration as any room in your home. Beyond being an entry point, it’s your abode’s first impression and a hint at the style inside. Here, Scouted designers share the essentials to create a stunning entrance with stop ’em in their tracks curb appeal.
Spark interest. With front door design, Susan Weiss, founder and principal of Emerson Bailey in Bozeman, Montana, Denver, Colorado, and Nyhamnslage, Sweden, explains that the goal is to evoke curiosity and intrigue about what awaits inside. She recommends gradually revealing the story of your home. “Approach it as a holistic experience, starting from the moment someone steps out of their car and moves towards the home. When a visitor approaches the door, the aim is to make them feel welcomed, comfortable, and intrigued,” she says
Clear the way for sunshine. The style of your house is obviously a consideration when choosing a door, but Lexi Lundberg, CEO and creative director of Lexi Grace Design in Greater Phoenix, Arizona, notes that bringing in more natural light should always be a consideration. If going the most transparent route, with an iron and glass door, is out of the question, she recommends opting for doors with multiple lites (a lite is a single pane of glass framed by wood), transoms, and sidelites (narrow vertical windows on either side of the door).
Make your door an integral part of design. Your front door décor sets the tone for your entire home and should not be an afterthought. “An exterior door significantly influences the external allure, potentially shaping the impressions of individuals who never actually enter the property,” Weiss says. When designing the front of a home her goal is to establish an expectation, making the landscaping, walkway, and actual front door all align with the interior design of the home.
Consider future upkeep. The aesthetic appeal of your front door is only as good as your ability to maintain it, Weiss stresses. Going with lots of glass? Plan to keep that glass cleaner at the ready. Over time, wood stains will lose their luster, especially in direct sunlight, so depending on your stain, you’ll need to re-varnish anywhere from annually to every three to four years. Paint can be more forgiving, but keep an eye out for fading and peeling. Weiss notes that a home’s well-maintained exterior signals the care and attention you can expect to find inside.
Draw on the style of your home. Choosing decorative elements for your front door décor can feel overwhelming, so Abigail Shelhamer, owner and head gardener at Abigail Gardens in Charlottesville, Virginia, advises her clients to let the style of their home guide their decision making. “A classic, brick home often calls for symmetry and simplicity, while a modern/contemporary home needs asymmetry and more easily gets away with unexpected elements such as tropical plants or bold colors,” she explains.
Simplicity is key. When choosing plants for a front bed or planters, Shelhamer notes it’s easier to achieve a polished look by avoiding mixing too many colors. Let the hue of your front door guide you to plant colors that are complementary. “When in doubt, keep it simple. Colorblock your flowers or add a pair of big ferns on either side of your entryway for understanded elegance,” she says.
Planter perfection. Quality is paramount when thinking about objects that will be living outdoors, ensuring that they are sturdy enough to stand up to the elements. “When you purchase a quality container, you’re purchasing it for life, so make sure that you love it and it fits the aesthetic of your home,” Shelhamer says. It’s important to choose a vessel that’s proportional to the size of your door and porch. Shelhamer advises that small porches look best with dainty urns, and big front entryways and porches need weightier planters for balance.
Add personality with fixtures. For an additional pop of personality, consider adding or updating your exterior lighting. Lundberg loves the look of a sconce next to a front door or a chandelier above your exterior entryway. She encourages her clients to step out of their comfort zone by choosing an unexpected, bold statement piece. For more lighting advice read Time to Shine: Expert Advice on Lighting Your Home.
Mix old with new. There is no better way to ensure a unique setup setup than incorporating vintage pieces into your front door décor. “Consider scouting local thrift shops or flea markets for uncommon treasures—vintage lanterns, weathered crates, or aged planters can add character and a touch of nostalgia,” says Chloe Morgan, CEO of Bells and Baubles in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Not only does this lend a distinct personality to your space, but it also ensures that each season tells a story with pieces that stand the test of time.
Hire a professional. If designing your front door décor feels stressful or doesn’t spark joy, Morgan recommends looking to the professionals. Whether you opt for a gardener, a designer or seasonal décor concierge, she notes that these professionals are able to bring a wealth of expertise to curate a look that aligns with your style. Consult The Scout Guide Directory to find the perfect expert to elevate your front door.
Emerson Bailey appears in The Scout Guide Bozeman. Lexi Grace Design appears in The Scout Guide Phoenix and Scottsdale. Abigail Gardens appears in The Scout Guide Charlottesville. Bells and Baubles appears in The Scout Guide Tulsa.
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The Hottest Paint Trends for 2024 According to Designers
When Pantone announced their Color of the Year for 2024, The Scout Guide shared ways to bring a little Peach Fuzz into your home. Recognizing that a peachy-pink may not be to everyone’s taste, this week we are sharing the latest TSG article featuring current paint trends from designers across the country.
According to a cadre of taste-making Scouted designers, this year’s hottest paint trends are all about embracing an invigorating shift towards nature-inspired hues, unexpected pops of color, and rich jewel tones. Grab your paint brush and prepare to be inspired by the trending shades that are sure to transform your interiors. To find a Scouted interior designer near you, consult The Scout Guide Directory.
Interior design by M + M Interior Design. Photography by Aimee Mazzenga.
Brinjal by Farrow & Ball
“Brinjal is the bourbon of paints. It’s strong and moody and really quite sexy. It sits nicely between deep red and purple and it was inspired by the skin of an eggplant. It’s an incredible color to use as an accent, like the inside of a cabinet, but it also works well when used all over a room. Brinjal likes a little ambient light and does well with natural light, so be sure to use it in a space that gets at least one of those sources. I love it applied with a brush as it gives the color extra dimension.” –Leslie Martin, principal at M + M Interior Design in Kenilworth, Illinois
Interior design by Daley Home. Photography by Madeline Harper Photography.
Mindful Gray by Sherwin Williams
“I adore this warm paint color. It has a creamy, soft undertone, making it perfect for lighter, more open spaces. I used Mindful Gray in the family room above for the wall, trim, and cabinetry, which made it feel so inviting.” –Shelby Van Daley, founder and principal designer at Daley Home in Cedar Park, Texas
Interior design by Emily Tucker Design. Photography by David Lauer.
Dollar Bill Green by Benjamin Moore
“One trend that I’m seeing over and over are rooms painted in one dark hue. It gives a very cozy vibe and I love the effect. I like to do this with green and one of my favorite shades is Dollar Bill Green by Benjamin Moore.” –Emily Tucker, Emily Tucker Design in Boulder, Colorado
For more on creating cozy interiors, check out Happily Hygge: 22 Cozy Interiors That Inspire.
Interior design by Daley Home. Photography by Molly Culver Photography.
Sealskin by Sherwin Williams
“Sealskin provides a decidedly more masculine feel, as seen in the bedroom above. I often opt to use the same color on the walls, ceiling, and millwork. For walls and ceilings I prefer a flat or matte finish, and for the millwork and cabinetry I use a satin finish which creates a subtle, yet important textural difference in the materials.” –Shelby Van Daley, founder and principal designer at Daley Home in Cedar Park, Texas
For more on monochromatic decorating, read Tone on Tone: How to Master This Chic Design Trend.
Interior design by M + M Interior Design. Photography by Aimee Mazzenga.
Grandview by Sherwin Williams
“Using a color like Grandview, which is a fresh, cheerful green, is fantastic in a small windowless space. It reads moody when the lighting is dim and has a great vibrancy when it has a source of light. It’s a showstopper, so be prepared to use it in a room you want your guests to explore. This is not a blend into the background color, so best for those who are adventurous with color.” –Leslie Martin, principal at M + M Interior Design in Kenilworth, Illinois
To discover more adventurous interior paint colors, read The Best Bold Interior Paint Colors.
For more 2024 interior trends, click here.
M + M Interior Design appears in The Scout Guide North Shore of Chicago. Daley Home appears in The Scout Guide Austin. Emily Tucker Design appears in The Scout Guide Boulder.
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2024 Interior Design Trends, According to the Experts
Earlier this month we explored some quick and easy ways to incorporate animal prints into your home – a trend that’s chic and fun. This week we would like to share an article from our partners at The Scout Guide with trends for 2024 from design professionals around the country.
From the hallowed pages of Architectural Digest to viral TikTok posts, the interior ethos this year is all about creating spaces that spark joy and reflect who you are. With that in mind, we asked five Scouted experts to share the trends they’ve been obsessing over, and they all leave plenty of room for personal interpretation. Viva la difference!
Interior design by Cashman Interiors. Photography by Kate Dearman.
Pretty in pink.
From Barbie’s favorite shade to the Pantone Color of the Year, rose-colored hues are having their moment, and Margaret Cashman, co-founder of Cashman Interiors in Lexington, Kentucky, confirms that pink will remain a staple in stylish interiors this year. “Some people may shy away from such a bold, bright hue,” she says. “But pink really does pair well with just about any accompanying color. Blue, green, and even red!”
Interior design by Anne Pulliam Interiors. Photography by Stacy Zarin Goldberg.
Mix in a dash of old.
While mass-produced pieces have their place and practicality, Anne Pulliam, founder of Anne Pulliam Interiors in Richmond, Virginia, shares there’s nothing quite like the patina of a well-worn antique in an interior. “I’ve found that my clients are more and more drawn to antiques not merely for their aesthetic appeal but also for the sense of legacy they impart within their homes.” An added bonus? By mixing collected items and contemporary pieces, your interiors instantly acquire a more timeless feel.
Interior design by Anne Pulliam Interiors. Photography by Stacy Zarin Goldberg.
Create a chromatic embrace.
In a world that often feels too fast-paced and chaotic, creating spaces to escape, unwind, and relax is essential. Rooms filled with a similar hue have an incredible ability to evoke emotion and offer sanctuary, Pulliman shares. Achieve this effect by cloaking walls, ceiling, and even trim, in a singular shade. Add a touch of complexity by utilizing wallpaper to incorporate a layer of depth and intrigue that paint alone cannot achieve.
Interior design by Molly Van Amburgh. Photography by K8 Creative.
Keep it cozy.
“While I love a light and bright moment to make a home feel welcoming, a darker, cozy room is a must if you have the space,” shares Molly Van Amburgh, founder of Molly Van Amburgh Interior Design in Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas. As seen in this perfectly appointed space above, a study or den done in dark tones evokes a sense of intimacy and comfort.
Interior design by Molly Van Amburgh. Photography by K8 Creative.
Dining rooms are back.
Those who’ve been hesitant to embrace open floor plans will be glad to know the tides are changing back towards more traditional home layouts. “Architects and clients are moving away from the idea of one big, open space where you live, dine, and cook, in favor of a separate dining space to host ‘grown-up dinner parties’,” Van Amburgh shares. “As an entertainer, it’s important to separate yourself from the kitchen, allowing you and your guests to sit back and relax, away from the mess in the kitchen.” No one wants to stare at the pile of dirty dishes in their sink while they’re still enjoying dessert.
Interior design by Molly Van Amburgh. Photography by K8 Creative.
Carve out a spot for a proper “cheers.”
In-home bars are making a comeback. We’re not talking about the basement tiki bars favored by the Greatest Generation, but dedicated spaces in kitchen, living, and dining areas, where the goods—whether it be coffee or cocktails—get made. Van Amburgh notes that this is where people tend to gather, so tricking out this space can be money well spent.
Interior design by The Owen Group. Photography by Rachel Manning.
Add a dose of personality.
One of the biggest trends of 2024 is to, well, eschew trends. Cookie cutter homes are out and personalized interiors are in, reports Brelan Owen Pearson, senior designer and manager of operations at The Owen Group in Watercolor, Florida, and Bellaire, Texas. Pearson works with her clients to find pieces they love, including helping them build meaningful collections, creating interiors with a cohesive mix of old and new for an overall truly unique, personalized space.
Interior design by Kaleidoscope Design. Photography by David Patterson.
Keep monochromatic palettes interesting with texture.
Layering of materials is that next level of design that always leads to beauty. “You can achieve so much texture by pairing the same monochromatic materials of different textures to really emphasize the architectural importance of a space,” Cassy Kicklighter Poole, owner of Kaleidoscope Design in Denver, Colorado, and Charlotte, North Carolina, shares. Expand your use of texture by thinking outside of textiles and incorporating it through tile, hardware, and even lighting materials.
Interior design by Kaleidoscope Design. Photography by David Patterson.
Color that goes for it.
It’s time to bid adieu to beige and greige. Poole confirms that gone are the days of muted neutrals as the ruling design trend. Her clients are seeking more self expression in their design and that means opting for an explosion of color and moody hues that really set the tone. Some of her favorite palettes include copper, warm blacks, brass and gold.
Interior design by The Owen Group. Photography by Rachel Manning.
Create a space made for your needs.
The ultimate luxury in home design is customizing your home to your lifestyle, and not worrying about the resale value down the road. Pearson has seen a surge in demand for bespoke and individual-centric spaces, running the gamut from a dog wash and Mahjong room to a bunk room for grandkids. “There are no longer firm rules for what’s included on a floor plan,” she explains. Dream big—this is your home!
Interior design by Cashman Interiors. Photography by Kate Dearman.
Make it metallic.
Wallpaper made a major comeback a few years ago, but the latest incarnation adds a hint of shimmer, putting a modern spin on this 70s trend. Cashman encourages her clients not to fear a little sparkle. “Metallic wallpaper reflects light, adding more dimension to a space,” she says. If you’re wary of a full-on embrace of this trend, start small. A powder room is always an exceptional space to experiment with more edgy design trends.
Margaret Cashman, co-founder of Cashman Interiors in Lexington, Kentucky. Anne Pulliam, founder of Anne Pulliam Interiors in Richmond, Virginia. Molly Van Amburgh, founder of Molly Van Amburgh Interior Design in Dallas & Fort Worth, Texas. Brelan Owen Pearson, senior designer and manager of operations at The Owen Group in Watercolor, Florida and Bellaire, Texas. Cassy Kicklighter Poole, owner of Kaleidoscope Design in Denver, Colorado and Charlotte, North Carolina. Cashman Interiors appears in The Scout Guide Lexington. Anne Pulliam Interiors appears in The Scout Guide Richmond. Molly Van Amburgh Interior Design appears in The Scout Guide Fort Worth. The Owen Group appears in The Scout Guide 30A & Destin. Kaleidoscope Design appears in The Scout Guide Denver.
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