David Harbour’s boho-style entryway is the ultimate small space inspiration – full of charm, style, and clever design ideas you’ll want to copy

In David Harbour’s New York City apartment, the compact entrance hall may be narrow, but it offers a powerful lesson in restraint, proportion, and timeless style. Proof that even a small transitional space can make a bold impression, it’s a perfect study in how to make a small entryway feel curated rather than constrained.

To transform the narrow entryway into a striking focal point, David Harbour enlisted designer Kyle O’Donnell of Gramercy Design. Together, they reimagined the tight space with a renovation that balanced the building's historic charm and modern comforts.

The walls are painted in a warm white – an elegant choice that keeps the space feeling bright and open without veering into sterile. This neutral backdrop allows architectural features and furnishings to shine, while also visually expanding the narrow corridor. It’s a quiet, confident palette that brings calm to a high-traffic area.

A long, textured runner defines the pathway, adding both comfort and visual rhythm to the space. This simple addition draws the eye forward, elongating the hallway while softening the hard lines of the floor. Overhead, a well-scaled ceiling light offers a sculptural moment without overwhelming the space. Its presence adds depth and dimension without interrupting the clean flow of the design.

One of the standout features is the built-in bookshelf, cleverly tucked along one wall. Not only does it add character and architectural interest, but it also makes exceptional use of limited space. Filled with books and personal objects, it transforms a functional passageway into a lived-in, expressive part of the home. In a setting where floor space is at a premium, built-in storage like this becomes both a practical solution and a visual anchor.

Framed artwork is hung thoughtfully along the walls, spaced just enough to allow each piece to breathe. Rather than crowding the space with excessive décor or furniture, Harbour’s hallway is defined by its simplicity and clarity. The result is a sense of order and elegance, a functional zone that feels anything but forgotten.

What truly sets this entrance all apart is its sense of purpose. Every element has been chosen with care. There’s no clutter, no filler – just a confident use of space that welcomes guests while setting a tone of effortless sophistication.

For anyone facing the challenge of a narrow room, this space offers inspiration in spades. Stick to a light, cohesive color palette, make the most of vertical space with smart built-ins, and let quality details do the heavy lifting. As David Harbour’s apartment proves, style doesn’t require square footage – just intention.

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Decorating a small entryway can be a challenge, but with the right pieces, even the most compact space can become warm, welcoming, and full of personality. These are some of my favorite finds to help elevate and individualize your home's first impression.