Foyers are small spaces, typically at the entryway, that connect to the living room, family room or dining room, and possibly a stairway. Because the foyer tends to be a place for passing through, some people don't design lighting for it. A properly and stylishly lit foyer, however, makes a significant difference, especially if it's situated at an entry, because it is a person's first impression of the home's interior. Does this Spark an idea?
Spot Lighting
In many cases, foyers are lit through overhead lights, which tend to flatten the space and not flatter the room. Use small lights and fixtures in several parts of the foyer to spotlight different elements. For example, two wall sconces flanking the entryway add a formal tone to the room. A side table along a wall is the perfect support for a small table lamp that illuminates enough of the floor to help guide people through the foyer. Pendant lights that you suspend from the ceiling or walls add a bright spot of color around an adult's eye level. If you are lighting a two-story foyer, choose a bright light to hang from the ceiling, and use smaller lights and lamps on the first floor. Small foyers that do not have room for end tables benefit from recessed lighting that adds illumination without consuming valuable space.
Fixtures
Eye-catching fixtures can be the focal point of a foyer. An etched-glass pendant light adds ambient light as well as a sculptural aesthetic. Set a long wall shelf aglow with small lights in the shapes of candles or use actual tea lights. Chandeliers add a burst of light and come in many styles. Invest in a wrought-iron chandelier for rustic charm, or go for classic crystal or bohemian acrylic painted a bright periwinkle blue or shocking fuchsia. If you have more space, you can hang multiple chandeliers of different designs and sizes.
Light and Shadow
A dimmer switch is a useful tool in a foyer. Set your main light fixture on a dimmer so you can adjust the level of light and shadows that enter the space. You can also adjust the dimmer according to the time of day or season. Shadows can be an effective feature in a foyer. Keep certain areas in shadow and use light to emphasize the forward path into the home. Create mystery in the spaces between wall sconces and at the ends of tables. You also can emphasize certain elements or themes with foyer lighting. Use gallery-style miniature spotlights to show off a row of paintings or a sculpture. String party lights or small Chinese paper lanterns that are illuminated to create a festive entry.
Tags: from ceiling, small lights, wall sconces
