If you're familiar with Gwyneth Paltrow's Montecito home, you may already be aware of how designer Brigette Romanek designed the entire property to promote wellness and emotional connection. The aesthetic is often described as a blend between a Parisian apartment and a European barn feel, but no space masters this quite like her entryway.
Gwyneth's quiet luxury entryway is stunning. Brigette used classic neutrals (primarily black and white) to ensure it will remain timeless through ever-changing trends. Decorating with white will always be chic, but it does risk the feeling of being slightly vanilla, a case that Gwyneth avoided in her space. The secret to her success? Her clever indoor plant placement – starting with the sprawling foliage on her table.
The statement greenery on her table takes center stage in her entryway, but it's complemented by the ficus by the door.
You can get the look with a Ficus elastica or Ficus lyrata, both of which have lush evergreen foliage. Whatever you choose will look stunning in these ceramic vases I've handpicked below.
Crafted from natural clay and retaining the authentic texture of the clay, this farmhouse vase embodies the essence of nature and the warmth of handmade craftsmanship, showcasing a simplicity that is full of vitality.
This decorative vase (handmade in Sydney) is made from 100% high-quality porcelain, perfect for housing your favorite flower. Poppies, peonies, or billy buttons look particularly beautiful in this vessel.
The Hussam jug features a beautiful hand-shaped handle and spout, with a rounded body. The natural texture enhances the old-world beauty of this piece.
Unsurprisingly, designers swear by Gwyneth's technique.
'A little hallway greenery goes a long way. Whether your hallway is grand or super narrow, plants are such a lovely way to bring life and warmth to what’s often a forgotten space, and such a nice way to welcome guests (and yourself!) home,' comments Lisa Hensby, the founder and creative director of Lisa Hensby Design & Build Studio.
Better yet, while we can't all design a space as large as Gwyneth's, we can still replicate her style in tiny entryways. You only need a shelf to get started.
'If you’ve got the room, a slim console table with a sculptural plant adds softness and a hint of drama. In tighter spots, try mounting a simple shelf and let a trailing plant spill down – it’s a beautiful look that doesn’t take up floor space,' Lisa says. If you're working with more room, she suggests a tall leafy piece that will completely transform the energy of your entrance.
'Because entryways are places we pass through rather than linger in, go for low-maintenance greenery. Think of it as a low-maintenance plant for a low-maintenance space,' she says.
'Plants really do change the energy of a home – even just one makes a difference.'
Do you have any entryway houseplant recommendations of your own? Let me know your thoughts here in the comments.
