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        How to Prepare a Foyer for a Makeover

        Learn how to remake a spacious entryway into a warm, inviting foyer -- and in the process, create a focal point for the home.

        More in Decorating

        remake entryway into inviting foyer
        • Time

          Weekend

        • Price Range

          $100 - $250

        • Difficulty

          Moderate to Hard

        Highlights:

        Step 1: Measure the Space

        Measure the space carefully. In this example, the foyer is a compact space horizontally but has high ceilings that draw the eye upward. The main goal of this project is to balance the vertical and horizontal effects by contrasting the staircase with the rest of the entrance and adding a focal wall. After taking the room measurements, create a sketch of the room to scale and attach paint-chip samples in the colors to be used.

        Step 2: Decide on Paint Colors

        In order to make a bold statement, consider using a neutral shade as the base color for the foyer walls and a power color such as red, blue or black for the stairs and handrail. Tape off the areas that will not be painted, using painter's tape.

        make bold statement with paint colors

        Step 3: Prime the Area to be Painted

        Primer allows the paint to stick perfectly and thus resist peeling in two to three months. Because primer is typically white, in order to avoid unnecessary multiple coats, add a portion of the paint (2 ounces of paint to a gallon of primer) to darken it somewhat.

        add portion of paint to primer to darken it

        Step 4: Paint a Base Coat

        Consider using a semigloss paint for the base coat. It will provide the best foundation for future coats of paint and glaze. Apply base coat to walls and paint columns. Allow both to dry 10 to 12 hours. Be sure to allow plenty of time to paint the foyer, and always use scaffolding when painting tall areas.

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