Transforming a Dark Entrance Hall into a Luxurious Space in Surrey

One of the best parts of my job as an interior designer is reflecting on the transformation of spaces, especially when it comes to luxury home renovations. Today, I'm excited to share the journey of revitalising a dark and cramped entrance hall in our Surrey project.

As the first impression guests have of a home, an entrance hall deserves as much attention as any other room. Join me as we dive into the remarkable transformation of this space, exploring the design challenges we faced, the decisions we made, and the incredible suppliers we collaborated with along the way.

Identifying Design Challenges in a Dark Surrey Entrance Hall

When I walked through this property for the first time, I was thrilled by the potential of almost every room—except for the entrance hall. If I’m being completely honest, I was quite worried about what I could do with this particular space. The layout felt dark, and the staircase that dominated the area was far from attractive.

The original staircase was smack bang in the centre of the hallway, and it was hard to look past its straight, uninspired structure as you entered through the front door. It made the space feel cramped and uninviting, which is not what you want in a luxury entrance hall. Initially, I hesitated to entertain the idea of making structural changes, especially considering the costs involved with relocating the staircase. But as I examined the layout more closely, it became crystal clear—this space needed a serious overhaul to shine.

Removing the original staircase was a bold move, but it opened up the entrance hall in a way I hadn't anticipated. By taking out the concrete landing as well, we created a stunning double-height space that felt airy and inviting.

Maximising Natural Light in Your Luxury Entrance Hall Design

One of the best decisions we made during this renovation was replacing a small window on the landing with a Juliette balcony. This addition allowed an abundance of natural light to flood the space, making a significant difference in its overall ambiance.

In front of the balcony doors, I positioned a pair of elegantly shaped armchairs, flanked by antique wooden cabinets and complemented by striking blue-and-white porcelain table lamps. To unify the design, I chose pinch-pleat curtains adorned with delicate beaded details along the leading edge. These curtains not only added a touch of sophistication but also softened the space, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

And of course, we couldn't overlook the chandelier. I wanted something that would truly make a statement, so I opted for an organic design featuring antique brass metalwork and stunning Murano glass drops. This piece draws the eye upwards, emphasising the new height of the entrance hall while adding a luxurious flair that perfectly suits the overall aesthetic.

Choosing Elegant Materials for a Luxurious Entrance Hall Makeover

Choosing the right materials was crucial in achieving the sophisticated look I envisioned for this luxury entrance hall. The original orange-toned woodwork didn't quite fit with the elegant vibe we were aiming for so it had to go. After considering various options, I decided on a rich dark oak stain and we integrated this into the new internal doors, staircase treads, and handrails. This consistency in material not only adds depth and warmth to the space but also reinforces a sense of continuity that is essential in a luxury home.

For the flooring, I sifted through countless porcelain tile samples, but none captured the essence I was looking for. In the end, I chose natural marble tiles from Mandarin Stone. The inherent imperfections in the marble add an organic touch and character to the entrance hall, making each tile feel unique. It's these little details that contribute to the overall luxury feel of the space.

The Transformative Power of a Thoughtfully Designed Luxury Entrance Hall

Looking back at the transformation of this entrance hall, I can't help but feel proud of what we achieved. From a dark, uninviting space to a grand and luxurious entrance hall, every decision made throughout the process contributed to the final result. Every detail, from the elegant chandelier to the carefully chosen furnishings, tells a story and creates an atmosphere that feels both luxurious and inviting. This transformation has proven that with the right vision and a willingness to take risks, even the most challenging spaces can become something truly special.