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by Lindsey
3 months ago in Design Dilemma
Foyer decor help!
I have this huge foyer which is almost like another small room. The ceilings are about 15 feet tall with a ledge on one side. How do I fill this space!? I was thinking of doing a picture collage over the table and vases on the ledge. I'd leave the other wall blank? Should I fill both walls? Maybe put a chair and a small table? Please help?
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Lindsey I love these two collages but again, not sure if its enough to fill the space or if the frames are too small.
3 months ago ·
Creations Nadia Interior Design I would start with the full size mirror and work around that :)))))
3 months ago ·
Bargain Backer Your walls need something to offset the height. Here are some good decor ideas for sale.
http://www.bargainbacker.com/Wall-Decor_c_13.html
3 months ago ·
carole for myself i have a rule in hanging collages,no higher then a meter above my head,but it is what you like!! big or small frames that really does not matter,i think for your hallway a mirror above the console and frames on the opposite site,start about 70 centimeters from the door,so you dont knock them of with a big wintercoat or when you are all coming in or out at the same time!! just measure out a space on the wall and fill it in!!!
3 months ago ·
spitfire60 I don't have a foyer, but I would put some type of seat/shoe area ... Start looking at pictures, determine what you are going for and go for it..
3 months ago · ·
suzvanlel this room seriously needs one big mirror on the wall behind the hall table for starters, and geometrically placed floating shelves either side for the ornaments, photos and lamp/s. Dado rail along the ledge to follow round to the window, stop at frame and then start other side of the frame. paint a mural on the big wall - something like a receding country lane/Italian side street or whatever. The hall table should not be half on and off the carpet? from the pics it looks too delicate for the space - again a chunky floating 'table' surface to match the shelves.Plant a synthetic hanging garden on the ledge? or create up lighting and take out the centre light. put in a dropped ceiling - lattice type to bring the room more into proportion. or turn the portion above the ledge into a library with a fun straight up ladder that slides along the 'dado' rail (which would have 'engineered'). Would be great if you could replace the window above the door with one that runs the entire width on the room.The panels on the doors would look good painted in the same colour of the walls.
3 months ago ·
Lindsey Giant mirror is a great idea to start with. That one slipped my mind. Not liking the idea of painting a mural but that's a good suggestion. Maybe if I could create a mud room bench on the giant wall for shoes and it would take up space. Don't have kids yet but I know that would come in handy when we do!

Thanks for the suggestions!
3 months ago ·
HomeCheckDallas Two, maybe three, quick suggestions -- 1) have the chandelier lowered so that the bottom hangs about 6 inches above the top of the door; move the console toward the door so that it sits completely on the tile -- it does not have to be centered on that wall; remove the lamp; hang a LARGE, tall, framed mirror above it -- it should be 12-14 inches above the surface of the console and could be as tall as you could find one, as long as the height to width proportion is pleasing. Again, it does not have to be centered above the table. Place one large bowl, sculpture or floral arrangement on the table. Perhaps try to place a tall, skinny tree or a great vase/umbrella stand with tall reeds to the right of the console (on the carpet. Leave the ledge bare. Because the ceiling height is so disproportionate to the space, you really don't want to emphasize the height. I would probably hang one large, almost square, colorful canvas on the opposite wall. Just make sure it is reflected by the mirror from both the front door and the room the hallway leads into.

One other possibility would be to paint the three walls with horizontal stripes -- they could be very subtle and simply be alternating sheen of the same color paint to deflect the eye from the height of the room.

Good luck!
3 months ago · ·
mictros Replace the overhead light fixture. It is dated. Consider installing a product on those windows from here: http://www.artscape-inc.com/products/ They have privacy, anti-glare, and energy saving film very reasonable. Anything you place on that ledge? Needs to be proper scale for dramatic visual. Tiny won't do. Mirrors are an excellent idea to open up small spaces. You hardly suffer from that problem, and the light from the windows, if left as they are, will blind you with reflection. Large art that appeals to you, or giclee triptych such as this:
3 months ago · ·
mictros Or this. Both are available at OneKingsLane.com
3 months ago · ·
mictros Without knowing your style? That's the two best Ideas I have. The White is available in 3 colors.
3 months ago ·
mictros Minka-Lavery Marsoni Distressed Bronze Five-Light Downlight Chandelier with Old World Patina Glass 299.90 Sale at Bellacor. MSRP is 450.00
3 months ago ·
vjs12 I like HomecheckDallas' idea with the large canvas print, light and mirror suggestions. The Starving Artists shows where you can purchase oil paintings from them for that large wall would be nice too. Maybe if you are in the market to replace the table, buy a chest with some bulk to it. Check out my ideabooks for suggestions. Good luck!
3 months ago · ·
aileenalannah Think wallpaper. A large mirror is practical in an entry. Super-sized vases on each side of the table would be impressive.
Or pedestals with vases.
3 months ago · ·
Mark Harpe I don't know if you are thinking along other lines or ideas but I would consider a new door with side lights and a glass and wood door as well. Look at all the light coming through the transom above the door! Fill the space with light. I would also consider getting rid of the shelf and extending the wall up. Add a heavy crown molding that is also a light cove and up light the ceiling. This space would look great with a large chandelier or exaggerated pendant. Consider changing the floor out for something more formal like polished granite or a nicer finish tile. Also white walls or off white walls with wall sconces would look nice I think. A simple piece of antique furniture like a secretary or side table would fit the space well (like what you already have.) a place for fresh flowers is an idea as well.
3 months ago · ·
Lydia An armoire (to put all your outdoor apparel) on one wall and a bench on the other. This would fill up the space and would be practical! And a bigger chandelier for sure.
3 months ago ·
myrns Replace the 1980s chandelier with a larger one hung lower. Replace the area rug with a larger more colorful Persian-style one and site it closer to the front door so you step on it when you enter. Ignore the ledge. Replace the front door at some point with a craftsman style (if it suits the exterior of your home) with eye level window panes so you can see who is outside the door. Entrance as it is now feels a bit like a tunnel.....................or it could be the camera angle.
3 months ago ·
LB Interiors Keep the ledge as it is a nice architectural feature. Highlight some very large items. Maybe a grouping of 3 -5 items. Leave some negative space. If you close the ledge in, the space will seem narrower and taller. You could drape a throw or beautiful cloth from your travels spilling over the left side of the ledge.

Wainscotting and crown molding at 6" below door height might help.

3 months ago · ·
Mary Bona A big mirror and some small chairs on either side of the table would look great (and give people a spot to take shoes on/off, or give yourself a last look before you head out the door!). Something like these photos, but in he color of your choice:
3 months ago · ·
mictros Just noticed that Wayfair.com has a myriad of lighting on sales. Not sure what your budget is. I was trying to match the existing color choice on your wall. Here's an example of what they have and I hope it helps? If price isn't a prevailing factor, check out the Hollywood Glam sale at One Kings Lane. Vintage lighting at reasonable to budget killing prices but what a way to go!!
3 months ago · ·
mictros Vintage and less than $1000 Sales at One Kings Lane are brutal and merchandise moves quickly! 8 out of 10 of what I go for I get but it isn't easy.
3 months ago ·
Lindsey Mark & Myrns-I wish I could do some remodeling to this space but right now I'm just looking for decor ideas. Surprisingly, the chandelier was placed in the house when it was built in 2004. I am definitely replacing this.

LB interiors-I love the idea of wainscotting, thanks for the suggestion.

Homecheckdallas-your suggestions are exactly my style :)

Right now I'm on the lookout for big, chunky armoires & giant mirrors. Would like to add a rug to the tile area, not overlapping the carpet. Will replace chandelier, too. Thanks for the suggestions!
3 months ago · ·
Lindsey mictros-love the first chandelier! never heard of that website but it looks amazing!
3 months ago · ·
Mary Bona Ballard designs has some budget friendly, large mirrors...
3 months ago ·
PYRAMID DESIGN GROUP Many excellent suggestions have been given as far as finishes and furnishings. One problem is the ledge. I think it might be best to eliminate the ledge.
3 months ago ·
mictros Incredible carving, like no other Armoire around
Late 1800's Oak Armoire from England, brought over to America after WWll.
Top is 95" wide, bottom is 79" wide. Height is 87", depth is 38" at top and 26" at bottom
Very heavily carved by an apprentice to become a journeyman carpenter/carver
Breaks down into 5 pieces for easy moving
Appraised at over $6000.00
Located in Petaluma, CA
PayPal only payment
That's the description. On eBay no less. Auction ending in 4 hours no bids placed start is 3000 buy it now is 3500. Reputable seller it seems. Dream Book? http://www.ebay.com/itm/Antique-Armoire-Carving-/181081680789#vi-content
3 months ago ·
JUL313 Gallery A large striking painting would look awesome in your entry. I have several just completed and I am right down the road from you in Dallas. Check out my website. www.jul313.com.
3 months ago · ·
Ella at Wishack.com Love the idea of a small seating area set up around your existing console table. Something like this mirror would fit in perfectly with your decor: http://www.wishack.com/Plateau_SL_MIR_Console_Table_p/pla-slmir_%2844_x_20%29_%28b%29.htm

As for the accent chairs, you don't want anything overwhelming. But consider how wide your foyer is. Also, I'd move the table to the other wall because your door opens right-to-left. It'll just help people flow into your home a lot easier without having the table in the way. Some funky floor vases are cute too and with large reeds or faux flowers would add some nice color to this space.
3 months ago · ·
mjlb I'd start with adding trim around the window so that it aligns with, and feels more connected to the door. I'd paint the door a high gloss black. Then I'd add a really large, dynamic light fixture -- whatever suits your style. Beyond that, I would keep it simple -- essentially what others have recommended: large mirror, console or bench, and a few decorative items.
3 months ago · ·
LB Interiors @mjlb, Love the idea of adding trim around the door (I mean window)! Excellent!
3 months ago · ·
HomeCheckDallas Hi, Lindsey; here are a couple of links for what I think might be great mirrors for you --
and http://www.allmodern.com/Marquee-Mirror-in-Parma-Silver-2531XX-IY1010.html --
Also, thanks for the kind words! I'll pop back to the discussion if I run across anything else.
3 months ago ·
La Maison Chic narrow table and upholstered stool is nice . Large artwork will work as well to slow you down on your way in. other wall coould have nice coat hooks for guests. Collage is good but the rule of thumb is either the top or bottom need to be a straight edge if using all different sizes.
3 months ago ·
Keitha I love Bona Properties suggestion and would replace chandelier too. In addition, consider installing decorative trim to tie the window and door together to make one cohesive beautiful unit. I have attached a picture showing the way the door and window are trimmed out as one unit.
3 months ago · ·
LB Interiors I used the wrong word earlier, I meant the window re:
@mjlb, Love the idea of adding trim around the window! Excellent!
3 months ago ·
Lindsey This is great, y'all. You've given some fantastic ideas and I have a bigger picture of what I want to do now. I'm considering adding a hall tree to the left side right on the carpet. picture below. framing the window is a good idea although I wouldn't be able to create any new windows so I would need to get creative. Thanks again for the awesome suggestions! keep 'em coming! :)
3 months ago · ·
LB Interiors Here's a drawing of how the window will be framed out to match the width of the door.

3 months ago · ·
mjlb Thanks for the visual (and the compliment), LB!
3 months ago · ·
mjlb Lindsey - If you do the hall tree, I would hang artwork only on the opposite wall. Do you have a need for the hall tree (no entry closet)? Currently the entry looks fairly formal -- would you prefer to make it more casual?
3 months ago · ·
LB Interiors Another idea to go with adding frame for window ... also add window-like molding at sidelight areas. Widens the entry. You can paint inside a lighter shade of the wall color and add some small vertical rows of art. Or large candle sconces in iron. Is more impressive. Here's another sketch ...
3 months ago ·
LB Interiors mjib - you're welcome!
3 months ago ·
Keitha Oops, didn't realize mjlb had already mentioned the moulding...great idea! Lol :-)
3 months ago ·
LB Interiors Some ideas, hall tree, mirror and bench in one unit ...

3 months ago · ·
Studio Homes hmmm....many great comments.....but i dont think i seen anyone suggest a big leafy green plant. I really think it would be awesome at the front corner by the door. Something tall like 6 ft.... and full. It would pull your eye down from the height but without being a huge block or shape that crowds the space. And by being semi see through it would seem less cluttered....as the floor space is actually small.

Combine that with a mirror on opposite wall and it would help a lot.
3 months ago · ·
Brenda Fisher I agree with the comment to take the wall all the way up But I would leave niches for statues or vases and light the niches. Then use the walls for an art gallery, formal lining the wall or informal as a collage. Definitely add more light with new door and sidelights and a taller triangle or arched transom window when you can. Smaller counsel table closer to the door and seating next to the table. I don't think you have the width for a bench next to the door however if you require seating there you can use seating shelves which could fold into a recess in the wall. If backed with a print they will look like art when folded up.
3 months ago ·
Lkristine I love, the armoire ideas posted above..... Here are some mirror ideas, and yes, scoot the table either all the way on to the carpet, or tile. These ideas are all neutral, and you could add color to your rug you are wanting, and accessories on your table according to taste. These are both large mirrors and would look amazing on your tall walls. This one is transitional.... http://www.homedecorators.com/P/Antiqued_Copper_Mirror/130/ This one is a little more modern, but would still be great with anything. http://www.neimanmarcus.com/p/Greek-Key-Mirror-Mirrors/prod148950053_cat40520732_cat40520731_/??ecid=NMALRJ84DHJLQkR4&CS_003=5630585 I wouldn't place a huge tree anywhere, but a large floor vase with a plant would look great. I would do a white floor vase, fairly tall, and then incorporate the white/off-white in accessories, along with one color you love........placing items on the table, and/or on top of the wall, so to speak, would be beautiful. Floor vase example..... http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vase-Floor-Wood-Decoration-Furniture-Home-Garden-Office-Floral-Vase-Indoors-/251224421799?pt=Vases&hash=item3a7e2475a7
3 months ago ·
Keitha Love that 1st mirror Lkristine! It would be stunning against Lindsey's wall color. Very classic!
3 months ago ·
montycal Shelving on the right upper side, put plants in certain shelves, paintings/ books in others
3 months ago ·
Kelly would get rid of the ledge - have it dry walled straight up- then you have a perfect rectangle to work with...add some pretty crown molding and nice trim......a killer chandelier...nice foyer rug...you have a good space to play with.
3 months ago ·
Lindsey Here's an update on the progress so far!! Moved the table to the left side centered in carpet area. Added round mirror, sconces with fleur de lis on both sides. Added round rug and vase/reeds. Phase two add giant picture in right wall and decor on ledge. Phase three is a new chandelier!! What do y'all think? I'm happy with the updates so far!
7 weeks ago ·
Lindsey Here's an update on the progress so far!! Moved the table to the left side centered in carpet area. Added round mirror, sconces with fleur de lis on both sides. Added round rug and vase/reeds. Phase two add giant picture in right wall and decor on ledge. Phase three is a new chandelier!! What do y'all think? I'm happy with the updates so far!
7 weeks ago · ·
Susan Jacobs Much better. If you ever replace the table, or move it elsewhere, get something chunkier, maybe more of a dresser type that has drawers (heft), not long legs. I would move the pretty little crystal piece somewhere else - it's very small and delicate for your space.
7 weeks ago · ·
Lindsey You're right about the table. one day I'll get something chunky. I keep playing around with decor I already have to fill in the table right now. But it's not hitting the spot for me yet. It needs more color
7 weeks ago · ·
LB Interiors I like what you've done. I agree the table could be chunkier or have more weight to the arrangement and it could be longer also. However, to make it work inexpensively, you could search for 2 small ottomans and place under the table in a colorful solid color or an interesting print. Use those as color inspiration for art choices on the opposite wall when shopping.

6 weeks ago · ·
Kelly West I would paint accent color and a saying of some sort in the shelf area "A house is made of walls and beams A home is made of dreams" type of thing and add some greenery topiary's and large cancels...
6 weeks ago ·
Mariah Perez Love the carpet... Where did you get it?
6 weeks ago ·
JAMEITE Hand-painted Silk Wallpaper Co., LTD I hope you like the hand-painted wallpaper.
6 weeks ago ·
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