The 2018 HGTV Urban Oasis entry design focuses on a "Modern Dutch Colonial" aesthetic, blending historical architecture with bold, contemporary elements. Key ideas include the use of a deep navy-blue front door (Sherwin-Williams Naval) for high contrast, a functional yet stylish mudroom with custom built-in cabinetry, and a seamless transition from the expansive front porch into an open-concept living space that prioritizes natural light and local Cincinnati-inspired artwork.
The 2018 HGTV Urban Oasis, located in the Dutch Hill neighborhood of Cincinnati, Ohio, remains one of the most influential projects in the network's history for those seeking to bridge the gap between traditional suburban comfort and urban sophistication. Designed by Brian Patrick Flynn and renovated by architect Dan Whelan, the home transformed a 1912 Dutch Colonial into a vibrant, modern sanctuary. The entry design, in particular, serves as a masterclass in establishing a home’s personality before a guest even steps across the threshold.
In 2026, many of the design principles introduced in this project—such as the "deconstructed" mudroom and the use of saturated primary colors against neutral backdrops—have become staples of high-end residential design. Understanding the specific design choices made in 2018 allows homeowners today to replicate a look that is both timeless and daring.
The Exterior Entry: Curb Appeal and Architectural Integrity
The entry experience of the 2018 Urban Oasis begins at the curb. The Dutch Colonial style is defined by its gambrel roof, and the design team chose to emphasize this silhouette by using a crisp, white exterior paint (Sherwin-Williams Extra White) paired with charcoal grey accents. This high-contrast palette allows the architectural details to pop without feeling dated.
The Power of the Navy Front Door
One of the most requested design details from the 2018 home is the front door color. The team selected Sherwin-Williams Naval (SW 6244), a deep, sophisticated navy that has since become a classic choice for modern traditional homes.
- Symmetry and Hardware: The door features a large glass pane to invite light into the foyer, flanked by symmetrical windows. The hardware was finished in a brushed brass, providing a warm "jewelry-like" touch against the cool blue paint.
- Visual Weight: By choosing a dark color for the door and light colors for the siding, the entry becomes a natural focal point, guiding the eye toward the home's "handshake."
The Multi-Functional Front Porch
Unlike many urban homes where the porch is a mere transition strip, the 2018 Urban Oasis utilized the porch as a secondary outdoor living room. This creates a "soft entry" where guests can linger before entering the home.
- Floor Treatments: The porch floor was painted in a durable, slip-resistant grey deck paint, providing a neutral foundation for colorful outdoor furniture.
- Lighting: Instead of a single, small overhead light, the design utilized oversized black metal lanterns. These provide scale and a sense of "grandeur" even on a relatively narrow urban lot.
Interior Foyer: Transitioning from Public to Private Space
Once inside, the 2018 Urban Oasis immediately solves a common problem in 100-year-old homes: the lack of a formal foyer. In the original 1912 layout, the front door opened directly into the living area. The 2018 redesign created a sense of "entry" through the strategic placement of furniture and flooring transitions.
Defining Space with Flooring
In the 2018 project, the designers used wide-plank white oak flooring throughout the main level. To define the entry, a low-profile, high-traffic rug was added. This serves a dual purpose: it protects the hardwood from Cincinnati’s varied weather and visually anchors the "foyer zone" within the larger open-concept floor plan.
Wall Treatments and Art
The interior entry walls were kept light to maximize the reflection of light coming through the front door’s glass panel. However, the design team avoided a "sterile" look by introducing a gallery wall of local art immediately upon entry. This immediately communicates the home's "Urban Oasis" theme by connecting the interior to the local Cincinnati culture.
The Dedicated Mudroom: A Masterclass in Organization
Perhaps the most celebrated "entry" feature of the 2018 HGTV Urban Oasis is the dedicated mudroom located just off the secondary entrance. In urban living, a single entry point often isn't enough to handle the clutter of daily life. The 2018 home addressed this by creating a highly organized transition space that balances aesthetics with extreme utility.
Custom Built-In Cabinetry
The mudroom features floor-to-ceiling custom cabinetry painted in a soft, misty grey. This color choice keeps the narrow space feeling airy while hiding the inevitable scuffs that come with a high-traffic area.
- Open Cubbies: Top-level cubbies were used for seasonal items like hats and gloves, kept in uniform wicker baskets for a clean look.
- Integrated Bench: A built-in wooden bench provides a place to sit while removing shoes, with open storage underneath for daily-wear footwear.
- Hooks and Hardware: Sturdy double hooks in a matte black finish were used for coats and bags, offering a contrast to the lighter cabinetry.
Innovative Flooring in the Mudroom
While the main entry used hardwood, the mudroom utilized a durable, patterned porcelain tile. This was a tactical decision. Porcelain is impervious to moisture and mud, making it the ideal choice for a secondary entry that handles heavy boots and wet umbrellas. The geometric pattern of the tile also added a "modern" edge to the otherwise traditional Dutch Colonial bones.
Design Comparison: 2018 Design vs. 2026 Standards
To understand why these ideas remain relevant, it is helpful to see how the 2018 HGTV Urban Oasis entry elements compare to current 2026 design preferences.
| Feature | 2018 Urban Oasis Execution | 2026 Design Evolution |
|---|---|---|
| Front Door Color | Navy Blue (SW Naval) | Earthy Terracotta or Deep Forest Green |
| Mudroom Storage | Open hooks and cubbies | Fully enclosed "hidden" cabinetry |
| Hardware Finish | Brushed Brass | Satin Nickel or Aged Bronze |
| Entry Lighting | Industrial Lanterns | Minimalist Integrated LED Sconces |
| Flooring Transition | Rug over Hardwood | Inset "Rug-Look" Tile mosaics |
| Technology | Standard deadbolts | Biometric Smart Locks (standard) |
Key Design Principles to Borrow from the 2018 Entry
Even if you aren't renovating a Dutch Colonial in Cincinnati, the design principles from the 2018 Urban Oasis are highly adaptable to various home styles and budgets.
The "Drop Zone" Concept
One of the core takeaways is the "Drop Zone." If your home doesn't have space for a full mudroom, you can replicate the 2018 look with a console table and a series of wall-mounted hooks. The goal is to provide a specific, designated spot for every item that enters the house—keys, mail, coats, and shoes—to prevent "clutter creep" into the living areas.
Scaling for Small Spaces
The 2018 home was relatively compact compared to other HGTV "Dream Homes." To make the entry feel larger, the designers used:
- Mirrors: A large, round mirror was placed near the entry to reflect light and create a sense of depth.
- Verticality: Hooks and shelves were placed high on the walls to draw the eye upward, making the ceiling feel taller than it actually was.
Lighting as a Statement
The entry lighting in the 2018 home wasn't just functional; it was a focal point. Using an oversized pendant or a unique chandelier in the foyer signals to guests that the home is thoughtfully designed. In the 2018 project, the blend of industrial metals with soft, Edison-style bulbs created a "warm industrial" vibe that softened the transition from the outdoors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Entry Design
Based on the lessons learned from the 2018 renovation, there are several pitfalls to avoid when planning an entry or mudroom:
- Neglecting Durability: Choosing a high-pile rug or a delicate wallpaper for a primary entry will lead to rapid wear. The 2018 team prioritized "scrubbable" paints and hard-wearing tiles for a reason.
- Poor Lighting Levels: An entry needs both ambient light (the main fixture) and task light (for finding keys or checking the mirror). Relying solely on the light from the front door glass is a common error.
- Overcrowding the Floor: In the 2018 Urban Oasis, the floor was kept as clear as possible. Using wall-mounted storage instead of floor-standing racks keeps the space feeling open and prevents it from becoming a "trip hazard" zone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What color was the front door of the 2018 HGTV Urban Oasis?
The front door was painted in Sherwin-Williams Naval (SW 6244). This color was selected because it provides a deep, nautical-inspired contrast to the white exterior trim and complements the historical Dutch Colonial architecture of the Cincinnati neighborhood. It remains a popular "safe" bold color for homeowners who want to move away from standard black or wood-finish doors.
How did the 2018 design handle the lack of a formal foyer?
The designers used "visual zoning" rather than physical walls. By placing a specific area rug, a console table, and a dedicated gallery wall near the front door, they created a psychological boundary that signaled the transition from the exterior to the interior. This is a common strategy in open-concept renovations where traditional hallways have been removed to increase light and flow.
Can I replicate the mudroom built-ins on a budget?
Yes. While the 2018 home featured custom cabinetry, the same look can be achieved using "stock" kitchen cabinets or modular shelving units. The key is to add a "finished" look by installing crown molding at the top and a baseboard at the bottom, then painting everything a uniform color to mimic the appearance of custom-built furniture.
What kind of flooring was used in the mudroom area?
The mudroom featured a patterned porcelain tile. This was chosen for its extreme durability and water resistance, which is necessary in climates like Ohio where snow and mud are common. Porcelain tile is superior to ceramic for entryways because it is denser and less likely to chip or absorb moisture over time.
Why was Cincinnati chosen for the 2018 Urban Oasis?
Cincinnati, particularly the Dutch Hill area, was selected for its rich architectural history and the "urban revitalization" occurring in the city at the time. The 2018 project was designed to showcase how an older, existing structure could be modernized while still respecting the character of the surrounding neighborhood, a hallmark of the "Urban Oasis" series.
Final Recommendations for Your Entry Project
When applying the 2018 HGTV Urban Oasis entry design ideas to your own home in 2026, start with the color palette. A high-contrast front door remains the most cost-effective way to transform your home’s exterior. For the interior, prioritize functional storage—even a small set of hooks and a bench can dramatically change the flow of your home. Finally, don't be afraid to incorporate local elements, such as art or materials sourced from your own city, to give your "urban oasis" a sense of place and personality.
