Why Zooey Deschanel's entryway color impresses designers

When it comes to failsafe paint colors, white needs no introduction. This hue's timeless, size-enhancing benefits have long impressed designers, but arguably, no space showcases its qualities quite like an entryway. And it would seem that Zooey Deschanel and Jonathan Scott agree.

The New Girl actress and Property Brother Jonathan shared their white-painted entryway in their Georgian revival in Brentwood, Los Angeles – and it's a tone that, designers say, is far more than good-looking.

'Beyond aesthetics, light-hued entryway colors amplify natural light,' comments New York-based designer Artem Kropovinsky. While Jonathan and Zooey's entryway is by no means compact, Artem adds that white paint is especially powerful in 'spaces like city apartments' where light can be a luxury. 'Using these colors can virtually double the luminescence of a space.'

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Decorating with white to create the illusion of space is a technique that designers have practiced for centuries, meaning entryways, big and small, naturally attract this hue. However, as Artem explains, this color has psychological benefits, too.

'From a psychological perspective, white and cream palettes signal a fresh start. Every time one enters the entryway, it’s like turning a new page, something we often subconsciously seek in our personal sanctuaries,' Artem says.

Artem Kropovinsky

Based in New York, Artem Kropovinsky, founder of Arsight, has a decade of global design experience. Prioritizing minimalism, sustainability, and authenticity, Artem, alongside his team of professionals, works on projects in the US and worldwide.

To style their entryway, Zooey and Jonathan have decorated with antique-style furnishings, including a wooden crate (that, in Zooey's case, also acts as a bench), vintage artwork, and a circular mirror to accentuate the paint's size-enhancing power further.

The actress's chosen accessories work beautifully in this Georgian revival, but antiques aside, Artem also recommends incorporating textures that will add interest to the neutral space.

'Think linen wallpaper or tactile ceramics. It's about blending the age-old appeal of these colors with tactile experiences that evolve with trends yet remain rooted in timeless design principles,' he says.

Alongside textiles, Artem recommends introducing brass or brushed gold metallic accents, in moderation, that add warmth and consequently make the space both inviting and luxe. And, of course, adding an indoor plant is never a bad idea.

'Plant elements are evergreen, both literally and figuratively. Incorporating indoor plants or even dried botanicals can create that connection with nature, making the entryway feel grounded yet alive.'

To tap into Jonathan and Zooey's entryway, we're picking up these similar buys below.

Wooden Storage Chest

Cecil Rubio Wall Prints

Mirror with brass frame

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Megan is the Head of Celebrity Style News at Homes & Gardens, where she leads the celebrity/ news team. She has a history in interior design, travel, and news journalism, having lived and worked in New York, Paris, and, currently, London. Megan has bylines in Livingetc, The Telegraph, and IRK Magazine, and has interviewed the likes of Drew Barrymore, Ayesha Curry, Michelle Keegan, and Tan France, among others. She lives in a London apartment with her antique typewriter and an eclectic espresso cup collection, and dreams of a Kelly Wearstler-designed home.