Whenever I visit family or friends, as soon as I walk in the door I know immediately if I feel at home. What is it that creates that special feeling?

At this time of the year with Halloween upon us, and as we look forward to more visitors in the winter months, it’s a good time to think about sprucing up entrances and hallways. Follow my tips to help you create a warm welcome.

First impressions

It’s easy to forget the outside of your house when you spend most of your time inside. Nothing says “welcome” more than a freshly painted front door. Try an interesting new colour like smart grey or soft blue/green. Pots of colourful or architectural plants are a quick and easy way to add style.

Last October I was in the US visiting my daughter and I loved the bright orange pumpkins, golden chrysanthemums and seasonal wreaths outside all the pretty clapboard houses.

Cut the clutter

In my experience, most hallways end up messy and full of clutter, whether it’s coats, shoes or bags, and it gets even worse in winter with muddy boots! It’s time to sort through and rehome what you can elsewhere in the house, or utilise the space under the stairs with hooks and shelving.

Add some extra storage in the hall, maybe a bespoke unit for coats and shoes, or a row of attractive baskets for hats and scarves. You can instantly create a more spacious and tranquil feel.

Set the tone

Your hallway sets the tone for the rest of the house. It should smell good; I always have a basket of fragrant flowers or a beautiful scented diffuser on my hall table.

For walls I love light neutral colours like Farrow and Ball’s Ammonite. If you prefer something more dramatic, look up Kit Kemp on Pinterest for some lovely ideas. If you can afford to change your flooring, hard floors are more practical – natural wood is very on trend, and you could add a rug for a pop of colour.

Let there be light

Arriving home to a light and stylish entrance will immediately make you feel calm. I have lots of downlights in my hall to make it bright and welcoming, or why not go for a statement light fitting for more impact?

Mirrors in a hallway are essential, not just for reflecting light and making it look spacious, but so you can check the way you look before rushing out the door. Big and bold is a good rule of thumb for mirrors.

Create a gallery

Finally, your entrance hall should say something about you. If you have room for an item of furniture, make sure it makes a statement – it could be a lovely painted console table, or an interesting piece found in antique market.

For that personal touch, try creating a gallery wall of favourite artworks or family photos. Have fun channelling your inner creative side.

Now you are ready to welcome your visitors into your home.