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Writer's pictureIrénée Sara Lykke

The evolution of American foyers and entryways in the 20th century.


Discover how American foyers and entryways transformed throughout the 20th century, influenced by innovation

Introduction


The 20th century was a period of immense change and innovation in America. From the roaring '20s to the post-war era, every decade brought with it unique design trends and shifts in the way homes were structured. Among the many aspects of American homes that evolved during this time, the foyer and entryway stand out as key spaces that reflected the changing times. In this blog, we'll journey through the 20th century, exploring how American foyers and entryways evolved and were influenced by innovative products from companies like Partiglass, Indaux, Kaashni, and Sekkei Systems.


1900s - The Victorian Influence


At the turn of the century, American homes still bore the influence of the Victorian era. Foyers were often grand and ornate, featuring dark wood paneling and intricate detailing. Entryways were designed to make a statement, often with stained glass windows and elaborate front doors.

Innovation Spotlight: Partiglass - While Partiglass wasn't prominent in the American market at this time, its expertise in glass design would later influence the shift towards more transparent and open entryways.


1920s - The Jazz Age


The 1920s brought about a revolution in design, driven by the Jazz Age. Foyers became more compact, reflecting the desire for streamlined and efficient spaces. Art Deco designs started to make their mark, with sleek lines and bold geometric patterns.


1940s - Post-War Simplicity


In the post-war era, simplicity and functionality were key. Foyers and entryways were designed to be more practical, often with built-in storage solutions. The influence of Mid-Century Modern design brought clean lines and minimalistic aesthetics to these spaces.

Innovation Spotlight: Indaux - Indaux's hardware solutions, known for their durability and sleek design, began making their way into American homes, contributing to the clean, uncluttered look of entryways.


1960s - The Space Age


The 1960s embraced a futuristic aesthetic with bold colors and innovative materials. Foyers often featured bright accent walls and bold, avant-garde lighting fixtures. Open-concept living gained traction, with entryways flowing seamlessly into the rest of the home.


1980s - The Rise of Grandeur


The '80s saw a resurgence of grandeur in American homes. Foyers became larger and more opulent, with double-height ceilings and grand staircases. Entryways featured oversized front doors, often adorned with intricate glasswork.

Innovation Spotlight: Kaashni - Kaashni's commitment to quality and innovation was evident in their range of hardware solutions. Their handles, locks, and hinges played a significant role in ensuring the security and style of these grand entryways.


2000s - Modern Minimalism


In the 21st century, American foyers and entryways have taken on a more minimalist and open feel. Neutral color palettes, clean lines, and the use of glass have become common features. Smart home technology has also made its way into these spaces, with automated lighting and security systems.

Innovation Spotlight: Sekkei Systems - Sekkei Systems has played a pivotal role in shaping modern entryways with their top-hung sliding doors and innovative partition solutions. These products offer flexibility in space utilization while maintaining a sleek and contemporary look.


Conclusion


The evolution of American foyers and entryways throughout the 20th century reflects not only changing design trends but also the societal shifts and technological advancements of each era. From the opulence of the Victorian era to the minimalism of the 21st century, these spaces have adapted to meet the needs and aspirations of homeowners.

In this journey, we've also seen how innovative companies like Partiglass, Indaux, Kaashni, and Sekkei Systems have played a significant role in shaping the form and function of American entryways. Their commitment to quality, style, and innovation has left an indelible mark on the spaces we call home. As we step into the future, we can only imagine how these spaces will continue to evolve, influenced by the ever-changing world around us.

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