Posted on August 08, 2024
It doesn't matter how big or small your house is, everyone's home deserves love and attention and if we can help you highlight your home's character and charm then we are pretty happy! As property experts, here are our top tips for making the right first impressions and creating that all important kerb appeal.
The Lead Up To The House
Whether the entrance to your home is a long sweeping driveway, a short and pretty entrance, or even be on the edge of a quiet country lane, it's always a good idea to make sure the house is easily accessible and that the entrance looks clean and tidy thus allowing your viewers to park easily and not have to dodge the bins or take an unexpected trip on one of the children's skate boards!
Viewers are very focused when they arrive at a home, curious about what they are going to find and often there is a sigh of relief when they see the well trimmed hedges, diligently raked gravel, or the thoughtful lighting around the herbaceous borders if its dusk when the viewing takes place.
We definitely don't think your home and garden need to look like a museum and be absolutely pristine, but a little tidy up can make a big impact. Stoneridge House in Chedworth is a fine example of how gorgeous a home can look with the right lighting.
The Front Door
Do you like a pop of colour, prefer neutral tones or lean towards natural materials such as oak? Either way the front door is where every prospective purchaser enters into you home to begin their tour of the interior. A fresh lick of paint can spruce it up no end and give any colour back its vibrancy. The front door at 3 Manor Farm Cottages, Daglingworth exudes classic elegance and its gorgeous greenery and gardens throughout.
Dressing the front door can really make a difference and brighten the entrance. We see so many wonderful Christmas wreaths during the festive season and various workshops take place in The Cotswolds where you can learn how to create gorgeous ornaments for your home. Why not create a Spring/ Summer version instead and stock up on goodies at The Burford Garden Company and pop in to explore Burford itself whilst you’re there?
Framing the front door is another great way of dressing the entrance, be it with hanging baskets filled with petunias or a beautiful bay tree on either side of the doorway. This adds character and colour at the same time.
The door knob is also something which has become quite fashionable with all sorts of gorgeous designs to choose from: bees, birds, hands, you name it we're sure it can be found! We love Coates and Warner’s solid brass bumble bee door knocker. It’s so striking!
For a few more recommendations on how to style your front door, we’ve got a style focus here.
Pic credit: Coates and Warner
The Entrance Hall
When stepping into a home for the first time, our senses are heightened. If you're a bit of a Masterchef in the making then the smell of fresh bread baking is so wonderful and warming. However, let's face it, not all of us have the time or skills to bake such gastronomic delights! Reed diffusers work wonders and delicately fragrance the entrance hall, offering an inviting and welcoming space. Either 100 Acres candles or Cotswold Candle Co are firm favourites of ours to provide the most amazing scents to fill your home. No risk of smelly dog odours!
Creating an open space in the entrance hall helps to kick off any viewing with a positive start. Even if the entrance hall is small, keeping it clutter free (we are guilty of kids shoes being left around!) adds to the feeling of space and light. Fresh flowers are always well received and can brighten up the room. Oups A Daisy in Cirencester will put a lovely seasonal bunch together for you.
Again, lighting is key. If natural light is limited, soft side lamps work a treat to frame the space. If the viewing is taking place at dusk then a few scented candles are both beautiful and smell divine. Dyptique candles are fabulous and smell strong yet are not overpowering.
Pic credit: Dytique Paris
Colours and Textures
Begin with the foundation, your flooring. The choice of flooring can dramatically impact the ambiance of your entrance hall. For an authentic Cotswold feel, consider flagstone floors. These natural stones offer a rustic charm and are incredibly durable. They also add a touch of history and sophistication, grounding the space with their earthy tones. Alternatively, wooden floors can bring a look of warmth to your entrance hall. The natural grain and texture of wood floors create a welcoming atmosphere. Opting for oak or reclaimed wood will also help to maintain a classic look that complements the Cotswold aesthetic.
Choosing the right colour palette is crucial in defining the mood of your entrance hall. Neutral Shades like the soft neutrals like beige, taupe, and cream can serve as a timeless backdrop. Alternatively, add a pop of colour with bold accents. A feature wall painted in a deep blue or rich green can make a striking statement. Along with some natural flooring, you can embrace the natural beauty of The Cotswolds with earthy hues to bring a sense of connection to nature.
Incorporating various textures can add depth and interest to your entrance hall. A simple and timeless way to add texture is adding in cushions and throws, the subtle patterns and soft touch of textiles can add comfort and style. A well-placed rug can anchor the space and add a layer of texture. Hallway runners in natural fibres like wool or jute are both practical and aesthetically pleasing. You can also incorporate texture through wall hangings or tapestries. These can be used to introduce new materials and patterns into your space, creating visual interest and adding character.
Lighting
Lighting is essential in creating the right ambiance. A chandelier or pendant light can serve as a central feature in your entrance hall. Choose designs that reflect your personal style and complement the overall decor. For softer, more diffused lighting, wall sconces are a great option. They provide additional illumination without overwhelming the space.