Sarah Michelle Gellar's entryway is tranquil and elegant thanks to white and wood accents – her neutral style is replicable from $33

The actress's entryway features a wood console table, wood floors, and crisp, white paint for a warm and inviting atmosphere

Sarah Michelle Gellar on the sea at Cannes
(Image credit:  Arnold Jerocki/WireImage via Getty Images)

As the first place you see when you walk into a home, entryways are crucial for making a strong first impression. Overdecorating (or cluttering) can be overwhelming upon entering a home, so choosing the right colors, patterns, and furnishings is a must. Going with a white and wood scheme is timeless, and we are taking cues from Sarah Michelle Gellar on that front.

The Buffy the Vampire Slayer star recently shared a video on her Instagram page, and we were struck by the warm and welcoming entryway color combination of white paint, as well as wood floors and furniture. An antique-style table is a highlight, offering function as a catch-all and visual interest with its craftsmanship.

We first covered Sarah Michelle Gellar's entryway last year, but her recent post has reminded us that, with the right accessories, you can achieve a similar look easily. You can shop some of our favorites below.

Shop the neutral entryway edit

Creating a tranquil and timeless entryway simply requires some intentional styling, and we got some expert insight on how to recreate Sarah Michelle Gellar's look. First and foremost, consider where you want the eye to be drawn to, whether it's a console table or a bench.

'Every great entryway needs a focal point to draw the eye and create interest, while also serving a practical purpose,' says Ilaria Barion of Barion Design. 'This could be a stylish console table perfect for placing keys and mail, or a beautiful piece of artwork or mirror above it. A bench or small chair provides a spot to sit while putting on shoes. Ensure that the furniture is proportionate to the space to avoid overcrowding and that it reflects the overall style of your home, setting the mood for what’s to come.'

Alternatively, a rug (like the jute rug we selected above) is a great way to infuse an entryway with texture; we are partial to a cream or brown color in a neutral scheme like Sarah Michelle Gellar's.

'A rug can add warmth and texture to your entryway,' Ilaria states. 'Choose a durable, easy-to-clean rug that complements the color scheme of your home. A rug also helps define the space and provides a soft landing spot for guests’ feet.'

For those who want to add a touch of color without picking up a paintbrush, incorporate some greenery into your entryway.

'Plants and flowers add life and freshness to an entryway,' Ilaria explains. 'An orchid or a vase of fresh flowers can make the space feel more inviting and vibrant. Choose low-maintenance plants that thrive indoors.'


While warm woods provide a cozy atmosphere, whites and neutrals enhance the natural material with an ambiance of calm, making them a perfect combination for an entryway.


Hannah Ziegler
News Editor

Hannah is Homes & Gardens’ News Editor, with a focus on celebrity style and entertainment content. She got her start in media as a digital editorial assistant at ELLE Canada, and has since written about lifestyle and culture for publications such as Nylon and i-D.

Her love of film is rivaled only by one with a great soundtrack, and she hopes to someday decorate a Nancy Meyers-worthy kitchen.

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