Create divisions
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PHOTO ALAIN ROBERGE, THE PRESS
A functional and welcoming entrance to a Kirkland home, created by designer Jessica Locas
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PHOTO ALAIN ROBERGE, THE PRESS
By integrating custom furniture, we optimize space, as in this small entryway where designer Jessica Locas created different sections to organize the closet.
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PHOTO ALAIN ROBERGE, THE PRESS
Inexpensive and effective option to complete the whole thing: a bookcase with baskets. Made of rattan, these create a warm atmosphere, like the textured wallpaper in a dark shade.
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PHOTO ALAIN ROBERGE, THE PRESS
The space under the bench seat is well used here!
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“In most interiors, the closet is equipped with a rod topped with a shelf, which is not practical because there is a lot of wasted space,” notes interior designer Jessica Locas, of Locas Design. The good thing without having to redo everything in the room is to open the existing cupboard, then integrate custom furniture divided into small sections. “We are going to put drawers and shelves in order to optimize space; you can save almost double the storage space, because you fill all the empty spaces. »
Study the available space
PHOTO ALAIN ROBERGE, THE PRESS
In this entrance, created by designer Pascale Nakhlé, the three-sided fireplace demarcates the space with the living room and cuts out the cold.
If you want to undertake more renovations, start by studying the space you have available to promote ergonomics. “Custom-made furniture is ideal, because we use every inch while making sure not to obstruct traffic,” says interior designer Pascale Nakhlé. We include storage for hanging coats and bags, drawers for storing hats and all the little things lying around that you never know where to put; we also provide a grid in a low locker so that the water from the boots drips, then a locker for the umbrellas. » It is essential to think about functionality, but at the same time aesthetics, taking into consideration the decor of the house so that everything is harmonious.
Allow yourself a bit of audacity
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PHOTO ALAIN ROBERGE, THE PRESS
The circular mirror softens the angular shapes of the other elements and its small shelf is very practical for placing the keys.
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PHOTO ALAIN ROBERGE, THE PRESS
Designer Jessica Locas
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If the style of the entrance must be consistent with the rest of the interior decoration, do not hesitate to add bold touches. “We can have fun creating a little cocoon,” continues Jessica Locas. Thus, the Moody look, shaped by dark colors, adapts well to this small room by giving it a cozy atmosphere. “You should also not be afraid to paint the ceiling in a dark shade, to create a spectacular effect. This is also the right place to apply original wallpaper on an accent wall. »
Two-stage lighting
PHOTO ALAIN ROBERGE, THE PRESS
LED strips, under the seat, complete the lighting.
A nice ceiling light or recessed lights are necessary to provide good direct lighting, to which you can add integrated LED strips in the lower part, for example under the bench seat, for ambient lighting. The result is both elegant and warm.
Opt for a resistant floor
PHOTO ROBERT SKINNER, THE PRESS
This large-format ceramic floor demarcates the entrance area, but the wood inserts echo those of the neighboring kitchen.
The entrance floor takes a lot of wear and tear, so it’s best to lay porcelain on it, as it is durable, waterproof and easy to clean. “I like large formats which limit the quantity of joints, but in the case of old houses, I prefer to integrate small tiles which will respect the exterior architecture,” explains Pascale Nakhlé. Tiling also allows you to zone the entrance if it opens directly onto another room such as the living room, but you should avoid creating corners, because the visual result seems strange in the space.
Choose a generous carpet
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PHOTO ROBERT SKINNER, THE PRESS
We opt for a generous carpet.
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PHOTO ALAIN ROBERGE, THE PRESS
Designer Pascale Nakhlé
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Essential for absorbing water and dust, the entrance mat is now available in different styles and some models are machine washable. The mistake to avoid is choosing it too small; It’s really uncomfortable, especially when it’s cold and the guests are waiting outside in single lines to be able to access a small piece of rug! It must therefore cover a good part of the floor, or almost all of it in winter. “We find a nice variety of colors and patterns of rugs on the market, so we can make them a decorative element in their own right,” emphasizes Pascale Nakhlé. Here again, consistency with the rest of the house is essential, but I encourage people to dare with a geometric or floral pattern, a less common color, because a carpet does not necessarily cost much and it can be changed easily. » You can also have one per season.
Favor accessories at height
PHOTO ROBERT SKINNER, THE PRESS
We keep the entrance as uncluttered as possible, like in this design by Jessica Locas.
Both designers insist on decluttering the floor as much as possible in order to clear traffic and keep the area uncluttered. So choose accessories to attach to the wall, such as a shelf to hold the keys, then a few hooks at heights suitable for all members of the family used to quickly hang the coat of the day, but without putting too much to avoid accumulation . In fact, one per person is enough. Finally, a mirror is also welcome, but you have to be careful what it reflects. Well positioned, it can help give depth to the space.
Visit the Locas Design website
Visit Pascale Nakhlé’s website