Ask A Designer: How To Create Drama In Your Entryway

In this Ask A Designer column, Stacy Begg shares her tips for making a memorable first impression.

Question: I recently replaced my entry flooring with Italian hexagonal tile, a new black door is on its way, and I’m wondering if I should paint my stairs — if so, in white with a black banister? — R.G., Stoney Creek, Ontario

Do you have a design dilemma? Send your questions to [email protected].

A: I like where you’ve gone with your dark tile. Start by removing the existing runner and painting the staircase white, like Strong White by Farrow & Ball. Leave the treads and railing natural blond like your floors — see the Inspiration image above.

House & Home June 2015

For added traction, think about wrapping your open stairs in a natural woven runner, like this one…

Wayfair Canada

Handmade Flatweave Runner in Wheat by Lauren Ralph Lauren, from $300, wayfair.ca

… or this one with a Greek key-like motif in a hardworking jute fiber.

Tonic Living

Auricula Woven Jute Runner by Dash & Albert, $454, through Tonic Living

Continue to add interest in the stairwell by using a mix of bold prints and art.

Elte

Tennessee Whiskey canvas Art by Van Garrett, $2,136, elte.com; Layered Terrain Wall Art by Jean Kenna, $2,846, elte.com

If space permits, a small upholstered bench in the entryway for putting on boots and shoes would look nice. Good luck!

Urban Barn

Marin Ottoman in Balboa Shadow, $299, urbanbarn.com