Joanna Gaines' Castle entryway color scheme is the gentle 'nod to nature' we should all be replicating in 2024

When adding color to our homes, it’s all too easy to forget the entryway; after all, it’s not as if we spend much time in this often small or narrow room. But much like any other room, the right color scheme can make or break the space.

As well as looking inviting in its own right, an entryway color scheme should set the tone for the rest of your home. Move it up on your decorating agenda: it’s a place to be bold and show your personality.

If you think you can't go dark or bold in a small room, you've probably heard that you should only ever paint or decorate a modest entrance in white or pale hues. These days, that advice couldn't be further from the truth. In fact, small entryways are often the most exciting spaces to decorate. And, you don't have to limit yourself to paint either. 

Designers are increasingly inspired by dark and moody interiors for entryways, to deliver a dramatic and stunning opening into a home, and Chip and Joanna Gaines' Castle entryway, in the heart of Waco, Texas, is no different.

When it comes to decorating a small, dark entryway, many people make the mistake of thinking lots of light colors will help to lift the space, says Nicole Salvesen, co-founder of Salvesen Graham. ‘The truth is that some battles are just not worth fighting. If you paint the hallway entirely white, it has the effect of highlighting the lack of natural light rather than disguising it.’

Instead, the best option is to distract the eye. ‘Do something fun. Use timber wall paneling or opt for a dramatic paint color. Make it a nice place to be, rather than somewhere to hurry through.'

Here, textured timber looks sleek and sophisticated and works extremely well with the neutral color palette and plenty of textural elements. The dark wood finish oozes quality and traditional joinery-making skills.

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When dealing with a small or dark entrance it’s best to embrace what you have rather than fight it. Decorating with brown and other rich hues will thrill you and your guests when you arrive at the house and make any adjoining rooms feel bigger and lighter.

To further enhance the visual interest, introduce indoor low-light plants that will thrive in even the darkest of spaces. Many low-light-loving plants possess mood and health-boosting qualities too. These range from absorbing harmful chemicals and toxins in the atmosphere to increasing oxygen levels. What's more, earthy brown and serene green are two color combinations for rooms that chime beautifully.