Hall Cabinets, Benches and Accent Chests Increasing in Popularity

I remember the 70's very well. Hallways in houses and apartmentswere almost always decorated the same way. There were twooptions. Option one was no decoration at all, just barrenhallway. Option two was a variation on the theme of familypictures cascading down a staircase wall in a forty-five degreeline. You remember those houses, don't you? Like me, you mayhave even lived in one. A hallway, entry way or foyer decoratedwith family pictures. Wow, doesn't that take me back...Nowadays, thankfully, family pictures are framed and sitting ontables in the "family room" or hanging on the walls in this mostcomfortable of family sanctuaries. No longer do people feel theneed to assault visitors and...

... guest with the grimacing mug ofUncle Charley as soon as they enter the house. The welcomereplacements to family pictures have been hall cabinets, benchesand accent chests.Hall cabinets, benches and accent chests, whether alone or witha picture or mirror above, are an excellent way to decorateentry ways, foyers and hallways. From Bombay chest beauties tosettees and chaise lounges, more people are starting to realizethat having one piece of furniture in areas such as these makesa tasteful statement about a home's overall decor. Pieces suchas these can set the mood for visitors and guests and often area telling mark of the style and preferences of the owners. Ihave an accent chest in my h...

...me that sits in a smaller hallwayconnecting two rooms and a gorgeous, hand painted three doorcabinet in my entryway, above which I have placed a framedprint. I have had more compliments on these two pieces than anyother, although I have been complimented on my overall stylemany times. Since these pieces are often the first that peoplesee, the warming effects they lend to an area is especiallyappreciated. Isn't it time you took that 8x10 of the most recent familyreunion and placed something a little more elegant in yourentryway? Pick put something that reflects your individual styleand tastes, and put that picture somewhere where it will be seenoften by those who can truly appreciate it.