To say that the COVID-19 global pandemic has changed the way we live is an understatement. It has been almost a year since we adapted to the so-called "new normal," and even home builders adjust to make sure houses have a virus-screening area.
During the past months, potential homebuyers have shown interest in having a dedicated area near the front door for dropping their protective gears and packages before entering the house. Because of this, developers and builders now consider adding a foyer and give each home space where they could "shake off" the outside world.
What is a foyer?
A foyer is simply the entrance hall or an open area in a house or apartment. It connects the home entrance to the rest of the house. Over the years, the foyer has become synonymous with other terms like entrance hall, entryway, hallway, or vestibule.
The foyer is the area where you welcome guests as soon as they enter the house. Some foyer could be as big as a room, while others could resemble a hallway.
Back in the day, the foyer is viewed as a "useless" part of the house since it doesn't play an important role other than holding the coats of people entering the house. But because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the foyer is making a comeback in the real estate and architectural scene.
What Changed?
According to experts, before the coronavirus health crisis, homeowners and buyers are looking for big open spaces that give an "indoor-outdoor vibe."
Glacier Equities director Matthew Muller told The New York Times how he would create floor plans without the foyer.
"The idea of coming in from the subway or getting out of an Uber and throwing your keys on the kitchen counter just doesn't sound right anymore," Muller said.
Nowadays, Muller's team would often dedicate a closer near the front door and decorate by adding ceiling light fixtures and different flooring "to create a sense of separation."
"It's an airlock between the hallway and the rest of the house," he said, describing a modern-day foyer.
Pre-covid, developers would suggest architects maximize every square inch leading them to delete the foyer in the plan. But due to the pandemic, even experts recommend having a "transition zone" where residents could filter their stuff and preventing the virus from entering their house.
Since it is now a safety precaution to have a foyer at home, interior designers also incorporate designs to make the entryway stand out and not end up as a mere pass-through even after the pandemic.
What to consider in decorating a foyer?
Storage
Think about all the stuff that needs storage, including your coats, hats, shoes, and accessories. Find a way to store them properly without making it an eyesore as you enter the house.
Table
You can also add a console or round table where you can drop some of your stuff as soon as you reach the front door. Make it personalized by decorating it with family photos, scented candles, or other accent pieces you find attractive.
Anti COVID-19 Starter Pack
Of course, don't forget the reason why you are adding a foyer. Make sure to put essentials in the foyer to prevent the virus from entering the house. These items include alcohol, hand sanitizers, face mask, foot bath, tissue, thermometer, UV sterilizer, a hamper for used clothes, and a new set of changing clothes.
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