We’ve all heard about the importance of curb appeal—the way a home’s exterior makes its first impression, the promise it offers before you even step through the door. But once inside, it’s the foyer that carries that introduction forward. It sets the tone, extends the welcome, and gives guests their very first glimpse of the home’s soul.

And yet, like many homeowners, I neglected ours for years. While we thoughtfully decorated each room of our 1870s brownstone, the foyer somehow remained untouched—a beautiful but empty space that deserved more than we were giving it. After three years of waiting, I finally decided it was time to give this area the attention it deserved, and with the guidance of the talented team at Kathy Kuo Home, the transformation is finally complete.

Before: The Untapped Beauty of a Historic Space

Even in its undecorated state, the foyer carried undeniable charm. Tall ceilings, ornate moldings, and wide plank floors spoke of the home’s storied past. The double doors opened into a space filled with light, while the sweeping staircase drew the eye upward in a way that immediately transported you back in time.

But despite these details, the space still felt unfinished. It was, at best, a blank canvas—graceful in its age yet waiting for someone to guide it into the present. I wanted the foyer to act as a bridge between past and present, honoring the bones of the brownstone while layering in touches that reflected our own family’s style.

The Vision: Old-World Inspiration Meets Modern Charm

From the outset, I knew I wanted to draw inspiration from the brownstone’s Italianate architecture while blending in my love for European elegance. I imagined the foyer as a warm, welcoming space that would invite guests to pause, linger, and take in the history before stepping further inside.

That’s where Kathy Kuo Home came in. Having worked with their team before on Lucy’s nursery and our backyard, I trusted their ability to marry timeless design with modern living. They understood my vision right away: to embrace the opulence of old-world style while ensuring the foyer still felt fresh and livable.

The Transformation: Details That Make the Difference

One of the standout pieces is an antique gilded mirror, its Rococo-style curves and ornate detailing a striking nod to history. It now sits above a three-drawer dresser—an elegant piece updated with modern ring hardware, striking the perfect balance between old and new. The pairing feels intentional, like two eras in conversation with one another.

Behind the mirror, we created a gallery wall featuring vintage botanical prints. Their subtle tones and intricate illustrations cast a romantic glow across the space, softening the grandeur of the architectural details while adding warmth and intimacy.

Every element was chosen with care. From the textures of the finishes to the placement of each accessory, the design team created a foyer that feels both curated and effortless. The result is a space that not only honors its 145-year history but also reflects our family’s story and style.

Living With the New Foyer

Our home has always been our sanctuary, but now it feels complete in a way it never did before. Walking through the front door, I’m greeted not just by beautiful architecture but by a space that feels alive—a true reflection of who we are.

The foyer no longer feels like an afterthought. Instead, it has become a space that introduces our home’s narrative: a mix of history, romance, and modern sensibility. It’s proof that even the most overlooked corners of a home can be transformed into something extraordinary with vision and thoughtful design.

Closing Thoughts

This project has reminded me that the spaces we neglect often hold the most potential. The foyer, once bare and silent, is now a place of warmth, welcome, and beauty. It whispers of the past while embracing the present, and it sets the stage for everything that lies beyond.

If curb appeal is the first hello, the foyer is the warm handshake—or perhaps the embrace—that follows. And now, ours finally feels like the heartfelt welcome it was always meant to be.