ENTRYWAY: 3 Ways to Add an ENTRYWAY!
3 Ways to Add an Entryway:
There a three ways you can add an entry to your home if you do not already have one. First off, you will need a contractor to get eh job done right and get the appropriate permits required.
Cut into your Indoor space: Basically, what you will do is frame a box with one side open into your home at your front door. You will be taking away from adjacent space, so make sure it will flow well. This option is the least expensive since you will have most of the work done besides the walls.
Enclose your porch: You can transform your existing porch entirely or partially into your Entryway. This option is less expensive since you may already have electrical, etc. If you want to heat in your Entryway, you may need to extend your ductwork.
Build out: If zoning allows, you can build an entryway into your home. This is more complex and costly. You will have to install a new exterior door, sturdy flooring, electrical wiring, a roof, and walls.
Follow these suggestions in planning your Entryway:
Flooring:
The entryways of your home will get the most traffic than other parts of the house; keeping that in mind, you will want to choose durable, easy-care flooring materials such as porcelain tile, ceramic tile, marble tile, granite or stone.
Front Door:
If you plan to extend the front door entry beyond the front wall of your home, or if you are widening your Entryway to install double doors, you will need a permit. For security, your front door should be made of either solid wood or steel. You can either match the color to the trim on the rest of the house or use a high-contrast color but in a complementary shade such as red, dark green, or black. Make the door uniquely yours by adding a decorative knocker, carved panels, other trim elements, and provide a hook to hang seasonal decor. Glass in your front door will add value, brighten your entry and complement the style of your home.
Lighting:
Choose a fixture that uses low-energy light bulbs and find a fixture style that complements the architecture and interior design of your home. Place a switch for this lighting as close to the entry door as possible.
Windows:
You will need a building permit to add a window to your Entryway if it does not presently have one. Adding a window to your main Entryway will not only allow natural lighting inside but also enhances your security. Make sure to put the window on the opposite side of the door from the doorknob and lock. This will prevent opportunities for intruders to break in through the window. You do not have to do a plain window in the Entryway, try a stained glass, beveled, or frosted glass to add charm.
Paint and Wallpaper:
Entryways should be inviting, so choose a warm color of paint that coordinates well with the rest of the main floor. You can also use wallpaper with subtle texture and neutral color.
Decorative Accents:
Have a bench or narrow table inside the door for guests to set down parcels, handbags, and briefcases. If you have a large enough entry, add some niche framed photos or artwork.
The Hall Closet:
A hall closet in your main Entryway keeps the entry neat and accessible to everyone. If you have no space for a closet, add a standing coat tree, or add a coat rack behind the door.
There a three ways you can add an entry to your home if you do not already have one. First off, you will need a contractor to get eh job done right and get the appropriate permits required.
Cut into your Indoor space: Basically, what you will do is frame a box with one side open into your home at your front door. You will be taking away from adjacent space, so make sure it will flow well. This option is the least expensive since you will have most of the work done besides the walls.
Enclose your porch: You can transform your existing porch entirely or partially into your Entryway. This option is less expensive since you may already have electrical, etc. If you want to heat in your Entryway, you may need to extend your ductwork.
Build out: If zoning allows, you can build an entryway into your home. This is more complex and costly. You will have to install a new exterior door, sturdy flooring, electrical wiring, a roof, and walls.
Follow these suggestions in planning your Entryway:
Flooring:
The entryways of your home will get the most traffic than other parts of the house; keeping that in mind, you will want to choose durable, easy-care flooring materials such as porcelain tile, ceramic tile, marble tile, granite or stone.
Front Door:
If you plan to extend the front door entry beyond the front wall of your home, or if you are widening your Entryway to install double doors, you will need a permit. For security, your front door should be made of either solid wood or steel. You can either match the color to the trim on the rest of the house or use a high-contrast color but in a complementary shade such as red, dark green, or black. Make the door uniquely yours by adding a decorative knocker, carved panels, other trim elements, and provide a hook to hang seasonal decor. Glass in your front door will add value, brighten your entry and complement the style of your home.
Lighting:
Choose a fixture that uses low-energy light bulbs and find a fixture style that complements the architecture and interior design of your home. Place a switch for this lighting as close to the entry door as possible.
Windows:
You will need a building permit to add a window to your Entryway if it does not presently have one. Adding a window to your main Entryway will not only allow natural lighting inside but also enhances your security. Make sure to put the window on the opposite side of the door from the doorknob and lock. This will prevent opportunities for intruders to break in through the window. You do not have to do a plain window in the Entryway, try a stained glass, beveled, or frosted glass to add charm.
Paint and Wallpaper:
Entryways should be inviting, so choose a warm color of paint that coordinates well with the rest of the main floor. You can also use wallpaper with subtle texture and neutral color.
Decorative Accents:
Have a bench or narrow table inside the door for guests to set down parcels, handbags, and briefcases. If you have a large enough entry, add some niche framed photos or artwork.
The Hall Closet:
A hall closet in your main Entryway keeps the entry neat and accessible to everyone. If you have no space for a closet, add a standing coat tree, or add a coat rack behind the door.