Hugh Jackman’s entryway is a masterclass in proportion and visual flow – experts say it’s a testament to the power of thoughtful design
Long narrow spaces are among the most difficult to decorate, luckily Deborra Lee and Hugh Jackman’s team at SLR Architects are up for a challenge. The actor’s long and narrow entryway is one of the most stylish we have ever seen. His space embraces classic design principles for a stunning effect.
It only takes a single glance at Jackman’s entryway, and one feels as if they’ve been invited into his home. The industrial chic space features a long bench made out of a single long next to a piece of blue art that stretches the length of the space. Glass doors flood the entryway with light, reflecting off the light wood flooring. Inset lighting at the bottom of the wall produces a warm and modern energy.
How does one design an entryway as striking as Jackman’s? Experts say it comes down to proportion and visual flow. First, the sizing of the furniture and art of the hallway creates the perfect amount of cluttered and empty space. Melissa Read, London-based Principal Designer at Studio Burntwood, tells H&G: ‘In this hallway, the use of proportion is crucial. The large-scale elements, such as the bench and artwork, are balanced against the vastness of the space, preventing any single piece from dominating the environment.’
In addition to their perfect proportions, these entryway furniture pieces are working overtime, guiding our eyes around the room. ‘The long bench and elongated piece of art influence the energy and ambiance of this entryway,’ says Nicholas Kaiko, Sydney-based interior designer. He continues, ‘The bench, made from a single, substantial piece of timber, introduces a sense of organic warmth and solidity. Its natural, raw aesthetic contrasts with the polished and refined surfaces, adding a tactile quality that invites interaction. The length of the bench guides the eye along the space, creating a visual flow that enhances the corridor’s sense of depth and continuity.’
Nicholas Kaiko, founder of Kaiko Design Interiors, is a highly sought-after interior designer based in Sydney, Australia. With over a decade of experience in the interior design industry, Nic has honed his skills as an interior architect and decorator, working on luxury hotels and high-end residential projects both locally and internationally.
He adds: ‘Similarly, the long piece of art on the opposite wall serves as a focal point, its abstract, dark hues introducing a dramatic contrast against the lighter, more neutral tones of the walls and floor. The horizontal orientation of both the bench and the artwork accentuates the linearity of the space, reinforcing the direction of movement.’
Furthermore, Jackman’s space is a reminder that planning is of utmost importance for creating a timeless entryway. Read says: ‘This hallway is a testament to the power of thoughtful design, where the careful consideration of proportion and texture transforms a transitional space into an unforgettable experience. It exemplifies how balanced design elements can create a space that is not only visually stunning but also inviting and thought-provoking.’
This indoor/outdoor bench was made from a single block of cedar, similar to the one in Hugh Jackman’s entryway
Entryway design should not be an afterthought. With careful planning and attention to proportion and visual flow, an often-forgotten space can become a striking introduction to the home.
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