Welcome starts at the door: Designing a guest-friendly arrival experience

We recently stayed in a mountain vacation home that, like many in the area, was built into the side of a steep hill. The house faced a stunning forest, but the entry was tucked into the hillside. We arrived late at night, greeted only by the glow of our headlights—no exterior lights were on and there was no indication of where exactly to enter.

Lovely mountain cabin in the hillside, with forest-facing views and side-entry driveway.

Which door were we supposed to use? There was a concrete slab leading to a left lower-level door at the forest front of the house, and left side stairs leading to an upper deck with another entry, and then… a basement door. The basement door wasn’t inspiring, but it had a keypad, so we guessed that was the one. Using the light of our phones we pressed the numbers. Inside, we found a switch for the fluorescent basement lights, revealing an unfinished concrete floor and a stack of wood with a sign: “Firewood $20 per bundle.”

Here’s the thing: first impressions matter. They set the tone for your guests’ entire stay. When people arrive at a vacation home, they’re brimming with excitement and ready to immerse themselves in an experience they've spent some time planning. That initial impression will either nurture their sense of discovery and relaxation or leave them scrutinizing every detail.

While wayfinding signage might seem utilitarian, it doesn’t have to be. Thoughtful design can make finding the entry intuitive and welcoming. A few simple, intentional touches—like warm lighting, landscaping, or a charming entry feature—can guide guests with warmth and personality. Done well, these moments don’t just feel inviting; they might even become a shareable, Instagram-worthy highlight of your property! Here's our take on low-cost upgrades that will make a world of difference for guests:

Lighting: Ensure pathways and the entryway are well-lit, especially for late arrivals. Solar lights or motion sensors are great.

Signage: Add subtle but helpful wayfinding cues like house numbers, an arrow for the main entry, or tasteful plaques.

Welcoming Entryway: Make the front door area inviting with plants, a doormat, or seasonal decorations.

Option 1: We added lighting, an outdoor-friendly copper pine tree cutout, large house numbers on the garage door, a doormat, and a "statement" pattern painted on the metal basement door.

Option 2: We added lighting, a hearty all-weather potted plant, large house numbers under the light fixture, a doormat, and a "statement" painted door.

Option 3: We added a copper "welcome" sign light by a cute fixture, a hearty all-weather potted plant, large house numbers on the garage door, a doormat, and a "statement" painted door.

Which is your favorite?

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