Autumn is a wonderful time to embrace the coziness of your home and prepare to welcome guests and travelers during the upcoming holiday season. In this blog post, we'll explore how you can transform your foyer into a warm and inviting space with a custom pet portrait artwork and a few key accent pieces.

Do you get excited during the fall season like me? Crisp air, pumpkin flavored everything, and an innate desire, no … an innate calling to NEST. Every fall, like a little bird who feathers her nest, I start gathering design and decorating inspo to ready my home for visitors as well as myself — creating a space that’s inviting to be in. Let’s start with a space that often gets overlooked. The foyer! Why the foyer? The foyer is the entrance to your home that sets the tone for what lies beyond. Below are essentials when zhuzh’ing up your foyer for fall.

Stylish Custom Artwork

Why custom artwork? One: it draws the eye. Two: It tells a story about who you are. And what better to tell a story than a portrait of your companion animal whether of the canine or equine variety? But there’s more behind it!

Studies show pictures of dogs reduce stress, anxiety and improve overall well-being. Wait what?! Yes. In some subjects, stress was reduced by a whopping 50% after looking at images of people’s pets.

Revelation! Why wouldn’t
you hang a portrait of your
bff right where guests enter
your home?

You want visitors to feel happy and comfortable when they’re visiting, and a beautiful professionally taken portrait of your pooch is just the thing!

As an example, I’m featuring a stylish solid wood Rowling frame paired with a beautiful portrait of an Australian Shepherd I took in Iceland. Adorned with dark varnish and gold or silver details, it exudes sophistication. What I love about this frame is doesn't overshadow your artwork; instead, it enhances it. When coupled with a stunning photograph, this frame is a perfect choice for your artwork to take center stage and become a captivating conversation starter.

Seating

To create a welcoming atmosphere, comfortable seating is a must.

Hello, the 50’s called and it wants to enter your home!

A mid-century leather accent chair, is a perfect addition to your foyer. Its timeless design adds both style and comfort, inviting your guests to take a moment to relax as they enter your home. The rich leather (or faux leather) texture adds warmth to the space, making it an ideal spot to unwind and kick off your shoes.

I found this affordable chair at Living Spaces and they have other styles too!

Accents - the Rattan Ottoman Pouf

I don’t know exactly when this trend started but one of my hairdressers had one and she’s pretty cool SO I guess its a thing. What I do know about design is: little details help pull a space together, layering in texture adds interest, and seeking versatile pieces is always a good strategy especially when entertaining company. And the ottoman is definitely a versatile accent piece that serves as a comfortable footrest or an extra seat when needed. Its natural, earthy feel perfectly complements the autumn season and creates a warm ambiance. Where to get one of your own? I found one on Amazon but check stores in your area to support local businesses first if you’re able.

Coat and Umbrella Storage:

OK, honest bunny speaking here. A coat rack seems dated and I have a coat closet. But it’s FULL — packed to the brim. It has stinky shoes, dust bunnies, dog toys & leads thrown in and hasn’t been cleaned in ages. So as autumn brings rain and cooler weather, a dedicated area for guest coats and umbrellas is practical, stylish — and keeps my dirty secret hidden. And though Southern California doesn’t receive much wet weather, when it does the ultimate host is ready! Some racks have space for a valet tray so it serves a purpose for you too when you come home after a hard days work. Try a wood coat rack. Its rustic charm complements the overall aesthetic of any foyer while keeping outerwear organized and easily accessible.

Remember, when inspiration sets in and you’re ready to makeover your home, don’t overlook the small spaces. Transform it by making it inviting, visually appealing, and functional. And remember, ARTWORK IS ESSENTIAL when you want to personalize your space and tell your story. I'm here to help you create beautiful artwork and I specialize in pet portraits. If you’re interested in custom pieces, don't hesitate to reach out.

Wishing you a cozy and stylish autumn season!