Greeff's tips for creating a welcoming entrance hall

The attitude of guests and indeed potential buyers is instantly influenced by the entrance hall. A thoughtfully designed and decorated entrance hall sets the tone for your entire home.

• A light filled, ordered space will be preferable to a dark, cluttered area. Remember, an entrance hall should never be a dumping ground for coats, shoes, umbrellas and bags. If you are going to store these items, then consider storage solutions which look neat and stylish and can preferably be closed off.
• Designing your entrance hall to frame a beautiful view creates an extraordinary impression for anyone entering the home, drawing the outside in and emphasizing the value of the location.
• An entrance hall can be enhanced by the creation of a focal point. Hang an attractively framed mirror or group some art on a feature wall painted a different shade to the rest of the area.
• A pendant light or chandelier, which adds good ambient light can be a standout feature.
• Many open plan homes have a front door, which leads straight into a living area. Define an entrance area with a strategically placed rug and a piece of furniture. A narrow console is a good idea as it can be home to an impressive floral arrangement or piece of art and also provide a place to leave keys.

By staging your entrance hall, you can quickly set a tone for visitors and home buyers alike, creating the perfect first impression.