03 - THIS IS YOUR SIGN TO GET RID OF THAT SIGN
The renowned Welcome sign
A firm believer that looking at homes IS a hobby. The first thing that you see when approaching or looking at a home is the facade. What features stand out to you? Is it the size of the home, the large windows, or the perfectly cut landscaping that leads you straight to the doorway? There is still personal enjoyment when looking through their windows (from afar, obviously) and seeing how a person decorates their lives.
The point is, the entry is the first impression; it is what grabs you! Now, with that being said, it seems like there are plenty of nice people in the world, because why does everyone have these huge two-by-four “WELCOME” sign sitting in front of their entryway? Are you that welcoming to people that a huge sign helps get that warm message across or are you just running out of decor ideas? It is understandable to want to spruce up your entry but, let’s get creative! What other options could go there that do not mimic your next-door friendly neighbor?
Starting with option #1: Plants & a good planter
You can really do no wrong with a good green plant in your entry. Biophilia (fancy word for plants) can make a person feel more relaxed and grounded. This can also have the same effect as a sign, but in a more subtle and natural way. Adding planters on the wall is an option as it could make your space seem taller or bigger, depending on how they are organized on the wall (vertical: stretches the room height & horizontal: elongates the room). OH, and do not let your excuse be that you do not have a green thumb. If you have ever heard of a placebo effect, just buy the fake one!
Different types of planter styles for inspo
Option #2: Furniture piece
The type of furniture depends on your personal style and location. For example, Teak is a sourced and processed wood, in humid conditions and ocean breeze, they do not hold up as well without proper treatment (sanding, reoiling), which means more maintenance, but if you are into plastics, metals, concrete, add lush pillows great for outdoors that not only compliments your style, it helps with seat temperatures and adds texture to the space. Get creative with the furniture piece it could even be a cool bean bag, stools, chair paired with a coffee table, bench, it all helps achieve the welcome energy when people come by as well! So set it up your own way, and BOOM another sign with a silent “s”.
Option #3: Lighting
Nothing sets the mood like some real good lighting. Day or night, seeing the silhouette of a light fixture can be eye-catching. It doesn’t matter the scale, it is really whatever works in your space, if it’s an eclectic piece that looks like art or floor lanterns that emit a warm glow, it all gives your guest a peek into what will be expected when they enter your home.
Option #4: Rug
Adding an outdoor rug creates what feels like an extension of your home. Adding that level of comfort as guests approach but also focusing on the colors when you
TIP: If the outdoor rugs are under trees or in a more outdoorsy environment, please consider a good hose or a power washer, as we know, things can grow due to seed droppings.
