Once a home necessity, now a beacon of a bygone era, the telephone bench (also fondly known as the gossip bench) was designed for the sole act of sitting back, putting your feet up, and enjoying nothing more than a good old chit chat.

Like a sofa whose purpose is to cradle you after a long day, the telephone bench was created to fulfil one (important) need: gossip. Whether it was a sleek midcentury bench fitted with a handy shelf for a directory, or an upholstered armchair with a mahogany side table attached, past makers knew a thing or two about furniture with style and purpose.

From the now extinct IKEA SPARTA telephone table from the 1950s, 'ideal for people who liked a long chat on the phone', to Emma Chamberlain and West Elm's brand new gossip-aiding creation, here at Homes & Gardens, we're pining for a vessel for catching up with friends. While the gossip bench fell out of favor in recent decades (along with wired-in phones, which gave these benches their purpose) like all good things, this charming vintage furniture trend has officially come back around.

While we may not have a use for a gossip bench in quite the same way they did in decades past, adding a bench to perch on, with a bit of extra storage, is always a good idea in an entryway.

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The Opening Note

This week on The Very British Edit, I’ve been thinking about the first few steps inside a home – and how much they quietly shape everything that follows.

The entryway is one of those in-between spaces we all move through quickly – dropping keys, kicking off shoes, heading straight into the house. But around this time of year, when the light starts to shift and spring slowly settles in, I always notice it more. It’s the first thing you see when you walk in, and the last thing you pass on your way out. It really does set the tone, whether you realise it or not.

And if you’re hosting – like I am this Easter weekend – it suddenly feels even more important. That first moment when someone steps through the door? It shapes everything that follows. Before they see your table, the food, or the garden, they experience your entryway. It doesn’t need to be anything grand, just thoughtful and welcoming.

This year, I did make one slightly bigger change. I took a bit of inspiration from Martha Stewart and painted my entryway in a soft, gray-green color – one of those fresh, calming shades that just feels right for spring. It instantly lifted the space. But honestly, it also reminded me that you don’t need to do anything major to get that effect.

Most of the time, it’s the smaller updates that make the biggest difference. A good console table, somewhere smart to stash everyday clutter, a mirror to bounce the light around, and a few simple pieces that feel personal. A bowl for keys, a stack of books, a vase of daffodils or tulips – nothing overdone, just things that make the space feel lived-in and considered.

At this time of year, I always try to keep things lighter. Clearing surfaces a little, letting more light in, bringing in something seasonal. It’s less about decorating and more about creating a feeling – something that quietly reflects the shift into spring.

What I love is how easy it is to get right. You don’t need to start from scratch. A few thoughtful tweaks can make the whole space feel calmer, brighter, and more inviting. And when that first impression feels right, the rest of the house seems to fall into place.

In this week’s edit, I’ll share exactly how I refresh my own entryway for spring – especially with Easter in mind – the pieces I always come back to, the storage that actually works, and the small changes that make it feel ready for the season ahead.

The Edit: Entryway Essentials

In the Queue

Next week on The Very British Edit, I’m focusing on something I naturally come back to every year around now: outdoor furniture – and getting my patio ready for the months ahead.

This is always the point when everything starts to shift. The days are longer, the air feels softer, and you suddenly want to be outside as much as possible. Morning coffee outdoors becomes a habit again, dinners stretch a little later, and having people over feels easy rather than like a big production. It’s usually the moment I realise my outdoor seating needs a bit of attention.

I’ve started to think of garden furniture as more than just somewhere to sit. It really shapes how you use the space. A better layout, more comfortable cushions, or a table that actually works for hosting can make all the difference. It doesn’t need to be anything overthought – just a few updates that make the space feel inviting and easy to use.

And the best part is, you don’t need to change everything to get that feeling. I’ll often just rearrange what I already have, swap in fresh throw pillows, or add one or two new pieces. Even small changes can make the whole patio feel lighter, more relaxed, and ready for spring and summer.

Next week, I’ll share exactly how I refresh my own outdoor living room setup each year – the pieces I rely on, what’s worth updating, and the simple changes that make it feel ready for everything from quiet mornings outside to last-minute get-togethers.

The Very British Edit is a shoppable guide to beautiful living with a distinctly British twist. From heritage patterns to timeless decor inspirations, each edition blends personal insight, design expertise, and a love of craftsmanship. It is stylish, trustworthy, and endlessly inspiring.

The most – and, somehow, even the least – sartorially inclined among us share the same problem: a good portion of our wardrobe inevitably ends up by the door. Jackets draped over chairs, sneakers kicked off in an avalanche-like pile, tote bags fighting for the same hook. You could enlist the help of a coat rack, a shoe cabinet, and an entryway bench to manage the chaos – but by that point, you’ve dedicated the square footage of a small bedroom to the cause.

This pain point is exactly why IKEA’s NIPÅSEN – an airy feat of Swedish problem-solving that somehow folds all three of those entryway storage essentials into one tidy footprint – feels so genius.

The design combines a coat rack, shoe storage, and a bench in a single frame, boasting several double and triple hooks at varying heights (ideal for coats, but also dog leashes, handbags, and keys), space for up to eight pairs of shoes underneath (IKEA suggests lining the bottom with a tray) – and, of course, an entryway bench to boot.

Admittedly, this sounds like a dubious promise (there’s a reason we’ve abandoned 3-in-1 shampoos). But, believe it or not, this storage idea actually works. Rather than reading bulky or overengineered, the NIPÅSEN is surprisingly light and unobtrusive – just a simple stretched-metal frame set at the perfect height to clean beneath. A helpful detail, considering entryways are the indoor-outdoor zones that collect the most dirt.

And while the versatility of the design is a major draw (it slips easily into a variety of interior styles), there’s also plenty of room to make it your own. Consider placing baskets or boxes on the bottom shelf for extra organization (perfect for items that can’t be hung easily, like gloves), or adding a cushion up top for comfort and a welcome splash of color or pattern.

They say ‘jack of all trades, master of none,’ but somehow this three-in-one entryway combo is amazing at every job.

How to Style It

IKEA’s NIPÅSEN is essentially a blank canvas, so here’s how we’d style it in a tiny entryway to make the most of its clever design and add a touch more character.

Streamlining furniture like the NIPÅSEN is one of the simplest ways to make entryway storage look nicer. But of course, if you’d prefer to go the opposite route and focus on one category at a time (or simply have more shoes than one rack can reasonably handle), IKEA’s famously thin shoe cabinets are ready to pick up the slack.

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Whether you're planning on celebrating the Lunar New Year next week, which falls on February 17 this year, or don't tend to mark it, there's one little-known practice that Feng Shui experts promise can bring you wealth and abundance regardless.

Known as 'rolling in the gold,' the simple act of rolling nine oranges through your doorway on the first day of the Lunar New Year is believed to encourage good fortune, prosperity, and success.

Here's why this unusual February practice is key to creating good Feng Shui in your home in the Year of the Horse.

Why Do People Roll Oranges Through Their Entryway on Chinese New Year's Day?

To find out more about 'rolling in the gold' as a way to use Feng Shui in the Year of the Horse at home, I spoke to Suzanne Roynon, a Feng Shui consultant and interiors therapist.

She explains, 'This is an enjoyable tradition to encourage good fortune, prosperity, and success into homes on the first day of the Chinese New Year celebrations.

'In some Chinese dialects, the word for orange sounds very much like the word for ‘gold’, while tangerine evokes the word for ‘luck’, and every homeowner wants to see the benefits of having extra wealth and good luck entering their property.

'Oranges, tangerines, mandarins, and even tiny kumquats are rolled over the threshold and into the home, sometimes accompanied by a handful of Chinese coins to amplify their effect.'

And, as Katie Brindle, Chinese Medicine practitioner and cosmologist, points out, 'The bright color and round shape of an orange also resemble gold ingots, which have historically been a powerful symbol of wealth in China.'

In particular, adds Suzanne Butler, a Feng Shui practitioner from Harmonizing Energies, this is all to do with entryway Feng Shui, and is a symbolic way of activating the home's main entry point, known in Feng Shui as the mouth of qi, where opportunity and prosperity enter.

'By rolling them inward, you are intentionally welcoming fresh energy into the home for the year ahead, encouraging prosperity to arrive smoothly and stay, rather than rush back out,' she says.

Once it has been rolled in, it is then eaten with family, friends, and community, to share the positive energy around.

For added luck and prosperity, Katie explains that she always uses oranges in her red envelope ritual, significant as red is one of the luckiest colors to decorate with in 2026.

'Traditionally, in China, red envelopes are filled with money and given as gifts to pass on good fortune and blessings,' she explains. 'I use them slightly differently.

'Every year, just before Chinese New Year, I go online and buy red envelopes. I share these envelopes with my children and close friends, and, instead of money, we place a written wish for the year ahead inside our own envelope. This year, the wishes are for 2026.'

Katie shares that, once written, she places the envelopes underneath a fruit bowl, filled with mandarins.

'I then place this in a special place in my home for the first three days of the New Year,' she continues. 'You can eat a mandarin a day if you like.

'Just before the next Chinese New Year, I find my envelopes, open them, and reflect. Did my wishes come true?'

What to Shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

Planning to redecorate? According to our experts, the best entryway color for Feng Shui depends on the direction your house faces.

There’s nothing quite as comforting as stepping out of the cold into a warm entryway – but that very space is also the most vulnerable to the elements.

Wet boots, umbrellas, and damp coats, combined with constant exposure to the outdoors, leave floors prone to mud, rain, and slush, creating extra cleaning work and undermining your home’s first impression. With a few expert strategies, however, your entryway can remain welcoming and pristine, regardless of the weather.

Leslie Ward, a real estate professional and interior design expert at Raleigh Realty, sat down with Homes & Gardens to highlight the importance of organizing your entryway over these freezing weeks and months. Thankfully, her advice is so simple to follow.

'For both my real estate career and my expertise in the field of interior design, I have found that entryways tell an untold story because, when a buyer enters a residence with slush on the floor or a hallway that’s wet and cluttered, they not only see the melted snow, they subconsciously think about the maintenance involved,' she says. 'The good news is that this is one of the simplest problems to correct by making a few intended upgrades.'

1. Incorporate a Two-Mat System

As simple as it sounds, placing two mats (one indoors and one outside) is the first, most powerful step to a slush-free entryway.

'A heavy-duty scraper mat [exactly like this one from Amazon] can be placed outside the door, and a washable, absorbent runner can be placed inside,' Leslie says. 'Again, low-pile washable runners with a rubber or waterproof backing [like this rug at Target] are what to look for. This approach dramatically minimizes moisture entry into the home.'

There's a misconception that ultra-durable mats aren't designed to be aesthetic. However, in recent months, I've discovered some pieces that are beautiful pieces that are beautiful enough to sit in the most exclusive of entryways. I've listed some of my favorites below.

2. Designate a Drip Tray Zone

Next, a simple boot tray can save your floors from water and mud while helping your boots dry more efficiently.

'Instead of letting the boots melt onto the floor, a boot tray with raised edges [like this boot tray at Amazon] can be used. For an easier upgrade, the tray can be filled with decorative pebbles to keep the boots above the waterline, allowing them to dry faster. A large plant tray or a utility tray from a hardware store can do the trick,' Leslie says.

3. Elevate Boots for Airflow

A little creativity in your entryway can go a long way: open, ventilated storage helps footwear dry faster and keeps your floors clean, as Leslie explains.

‘A simple slatted wood rack, which can be a DIY weekend project, allows for ventilation and efficient drying time. An entry bench with open cubbies also keeps footwear out of the water and off the floor,’ she says.

These solutions are not just practical; they also add texture and style to the space. By thinking beyond a standard mat or tray, you can create an entryway that is both functional and inviting.

4. Pre-Seal and Protect your Flooring

This tip involves pre-planning for the weather (which is a little late for this cold snap). However, if you've had a particular problem with slushy floors this winter, then it might be worth getting ahead next October or November.

'Not only does hardwood around the entryways receive the most use and abuse, but it also costs far less initially to apply a fresh coat of sealant with a prevention system than to refinish the warped hardwood later,' Leslie says.

5. Make the Solution Look Intentional

Sometimes, these solutions can damage the look of your entryway, but they don't have to. As explained above, many durable rugs feel like a design choice rather than a functional necessity, and you can elevate your boot trays with decorative stones to make them feel more intentional. Investing in a modern entryway bench to help wth storage is another way to combine both practicality and style seamlessly.

'From a design perspective, the contained area should never appear as clutter. You can find trays, runners, and storage pieces that complement your home's style. Don’t forget to add a bench, hooks on the walls, or even a console for better placement of all items. This way, even with messy weather conditions outside, the area never appears cluttered, thus making it warm and inviting,' Leslie says.

To keep your entryway looking beautiful all year round, the key is to create contained, intentional areas that complement your home’s style. By planning ahead, even the messiest days outside won’t disrupt a warm, welcoming entryway, all winter long. For more tips, we explore how best to clean an entryway in our dedicated guide.

Entryways are practical spaces; they need to wear a lot of hats and balance both looking chic and welcoming guests into your home, and being able to store all the things you throw at it. So you want your entryway storage to look nice as well as do the job.

A room that's one of the most seen (and used), adding clever entryway storage is one thing, but ensuring it's stylish and seamless is a whole other. Put together by designers who have nailed the artful (often tricky) balance of style and function, these six simple tips will transform your entryway into a space that works hard every day, not to mention, one you'll want to linger a little longer in.

1. Turn Entryway Storage Into a Feature With Paint

In this entryway designed by Lonika Chande, a yellow-painted cabinet holds an entire family's daily essentials. Injecting life into the pass through space, the hero piece becomes more than practical, adding to the cheerful feel of the design.

'The starting point for this storage piece was the reality of busy daily life in London – coats, shoes, bags, and umbrellas!' explains Lonika. 'We wanted the space to work hard, but to do so with warmth and character. We mixed built-in storage with this freestanding yellow cupboard, as our client wanted something that created a little wow, the moment you step inside.'

A fun way to embrace color trends for 2026, covering your storage in an on-trend paint color will bring vibrancy to your space without overwhelming it, transforming mundane storage into a design moment designed to be enjoyed.

Lonika suggests looking at your pass through space with the same lens as any other room. 'By treating them as you would a naturally softer room, like a sitting room or a bedroom. Color and hardware give pieces presence and personality, while fabric and upholstery add warmth and softness.'

2. Opt for a Seamless, Smart Storage Solution

Making storage central to your design will ensure that even small entryways feel enjoyable to use and masterfully accomplished.

The hidden storage in this apartment's entrance proves that function and style work side by side. Stig Lommer Bagger, founder of smart furniture brand Quirky Mousse, explains, 'The inspiration came from the narrow – yet often long – entryways found in many small Copenhagen apartments. In these spaces, storage needs to work hard without visually or physically taking over the room. The idea was to use the walls efficiently, keeping the floor as free as possible, and to introduce storage that feels slim, calm, and well-proportioned. By working vertically and keeping the expression light, the entryway remains functional while still feeling open and welcoming.'

Stig continues, 'Practicality comes from understanding everyday use and working with the space's architecture. In narrow entryways, wall-mounted solutions are key, as they free up floor space and improve circulation. A combination of open storage for frequently used items and closed storage placed higher up works well, allowing the space to stay organized without feeling cluttered. Keeping storage off the floor also makes the entryway easier to clean and visually calmer.

He adds, 'When proportions are carefully considered, and materials are kept consistent, even simple storage solutions can feel intentional. In entryways especially, elevating everyday items – by mounting them on the wall or grouping them thoughtfully – helps turn practical necessities into calm, understated design features.'

3. Add Seating Into Your Entryway Storage

Whether it's a simple storage bench or a built-in seat for guests to use as they arrive and leave, adding some form of seating will make your entryway storage feel intentional (not to mention multi-functional), becoming an area that's worth lingering in.

When designing her entryway, Jenn Lake, Founder of the Style Charade, explains that her main goal was to create a fuss-free, serene environment for guests to enjoy. 'Our home is situated on a serene Wisconsin lake, so the waterfront view always proves to be the best inspiration. The serene blue of our custom cabinetry proved to be the perfect starting point. Ultimately, we wanted to create a beautiful drop zone for seamless entry and exits to our home. The entryway offers a calm, engaging first impression that makes guests feel comfortable.'

Of course, organizing an entryway will create a peaceful atmosphere free from chaos, but equally, designing a space that accommodates (without compromising aesthetics) will give you a room you can forever rely on. Jenn says, 'One of the best ways to make an entryway practical is by evaluating the needs of both your family and potential guests. Since we live in the Midwest, we understand storage requirements shift depending on the season. One minute we're dealing with rain and thunderstorms, and the next it's sleet and snow. Therefore, we've organized the space to accommodate seasonal needs, with each closet dedicated to spring, summer, winter, and fall items.'

Jenn adds, 'We also make sure to leave room for guests' items and invest in extra accessories should they forget or need an item to make their experience even more comfortable. Another key component is our small seating areas that make it easier to take off or put on shoes.'

4. Color-Drench for Coziness

In this apartment entryway that edges on the smaller side, interior designer Carlos Garcia used an earthy color to bring warmth and life into the space. He explains, 'The property is a small flat Arts and Crafts flat in a conservation area in London. The hall in the picture is a back entrance, from the garden and allotments. Being a small flat, storage was crucial, and so, even small spaces like a back hall need storage.'

Using a warm entryway color that falls somewhere between terracotta and red, the space feels inviting, cozy, and intentional. Layering baskets, hooks, and shelving, the room becomes the perfect balance of stylish and functional. Carlos adds, 'Achieving a balance between aesthetics and practicality is crucial. There must be a place to leave your keys, a seat to put your shoes on, a rug to make you feel welcome, a space to leave your umbrellas and hooks to hang your coats. If the door needs it, a door curtain will soften the space and will make it feel warmer.'

5. Organize Cupboards So They Have One Sole Purpose

Meticulously organizing your entryway storage will ensure your space looks (and feels) fuss-free and serene. Interior designer Trevor Fulmer created a dedicated shoe cupboard in a recent entryway project. By creating a space for 'one sole thing', the design instantly feels more refined and look nicer too.

He explains, 'This home operates as a shoe-free household. The homeowners have a large shoe collection, so storage needed to be generous, functional, and easy to maintain. The mudroom was designed with clear zones for arrival, shoe removal, and storage. Custom cabinetry was used to maximize vertical storage, keep each pair organized, and maintain clear circulation/movement through the space. Treating the shoe cabinet as the room’s feature helped the space stay organized while reflecting the homeowner's style.'

6. Layer Vintage Touches for Character

Layering characterful pieces in your entryway will give it personality and an instantly more homely feel.

HÁM Interiors decorated with vintage in this cozy entrance, adding antique storage canisters and other lived-in details. Tom Cox of HÁM says, 'It’s about balancing the utilitarian elements with pieces that have a bit of character. If everything’s built in, a hallway can start to feel overly fitted, so we like to break it up and make space for more decorative layers — a lamp, an antique piece, a bit of artwork. Those collected touches are what make the space feel intentional and properly lived-in.'

Tom adds, 'This is a hard-working part of the house, so it was important to start with what the room needs to handle day to day — muddy boots, coats, dogs — and what you actually want on show. Properly built-in joinery makes all the difference, but we kept it feeling relaxed by breaking it up with simple, usable elements: hooks for everyday coats and a bench with baskets so you can sit down and deal with your shoes.'

Shop Hard-Working Entryway Storage

From coat racks to consoles, these 9 picks will transform your entryway into an organized oasis that balances style with utmost practicality, making everyday a little easier.

These spaces prove that a truly good entryway blends necessity with style. By always considering what you need in an entryway and remaining sympathetic to your proportions as well as interior design style, you'll have a space that ticks every box and leaves you feeling ready to start or end your day.

A slim shoe rack for your entryway is an essential in any compact home to avoid tripping up in messy entrances or feeling frustrated at the level of clutter you have to see in this space daily.

So often, a pile of shoes by the front door leaves your home looking uncared for, especially in winter when it can be a challenge to fit taller winter boots in the same storage area as before.

But you don't have to be resigned to inadequate footwear storage just because it's cold outside. The sleek and slim $39 Joseph Joseph Level Adjustable Tier Shoe Rack Organizer, available at Amazon, is just what you need to get things in order in winter with its clever adjustable features.

Here's why it's one of our top recommendations for hallway shoe storage.

The Slim Joseph Joseph Shoe Rack Banishes Shoe Clutter in Entryway

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

It's well-known that one of the golden rules for a clutter-free entryway is using smart entryway storage ideas that, importantly, don't take up heaps of space. That's where the sleek Joseph Joseph Level Adjustable Tier Shoe Rack Organizer, available at Amazon, comes in handy.

It's perfect for keeping shoes hidden, even in a small entryway.

For starters, it's effortlessly easy to assemble with shelves that clip securely onto the frame, and all the full instructions needed are included. It's also cleverly adjustable, as you can simply adjust the shelving heights to fit your shoe collection as your footwear needs change from season to season.

You can also stack multiple units one on top of the other, and attach them to your walls for added security and stability.

In fact, as one five-star review from Mia reads, it's both 'Adjustable and sleek.'

'This shoe rack is fantastic,' they write. 'I wear a size 6.5 women's, and it holds around 10 pairs of my shoes. Assembly isn't difficult at all and took a total of 10 minutes to put it together.

'The key feature that makes this shoe shelf stand out for me is that it's adjustable to your needs. I have a hard time finding shoe racks that can fit tall boots or winter shoes, and this one is perfect for that because you can customize it to fit the shoes you need it to. I highly recommend!'

A second reviewer notes that they 'Love the color,' adding how easy it was to put together.

'The material is easy to clean, and I love the muted color,' they write. 'It looks nice anywhere! The shelves are easy to move around. I was able to set the height for flats, sneakers, and boots!'

This is particularly brilliant if, in 2026, you're looking to kick your shoe-hoarding habit and organize your footwear for good, which may well mean your collection waxes and wanes as the year progresses.

If you are looking to cut down, adopting the One In, Two Out decluttering rule is an easy way to make a big impact with little effort, and it makes it far easier to organize shoes in small spaces. After all, if you have less, you'll have less to keep tidy.

More to Shop

Do you know about the clever ways to maximize storage space on your shoe racks? From going heel-to-toe to using pull-out drawers, it's easy to make the most of any storage solution you have.

A clear, uncluttered entrance instantly makes a home feel welcoming, setting a calm, reassuring tone for anyone who comes or goes while creating a striking first impression.

For inspiration, look to modern entryway ideas. Those who embrace sleek, pared-back interiors understand which pieces elevate a hallway and which are best left aside. We spoke with design professionals to reveal the key elements to remove, helping you organize an entryway, and craft a serene, spacious, and effortlessly stylish room that feels both practical and inviting.

The Items Minimalists Never Keep in an Entryway

Whether your hall is petite or generous, the right entryway ideas – from smart furniture to clever storage solutions – can transform the space. But minimalism isn’t about stripping back to nothing.

‘Many people automatically assume minimalism means bare bones – very little furniture or decor,’ explains interior designer Emma Beryl of Emma Beryl Interiors. ‘That’s not quite right. Minimalism is about being deliberate. Choose only the truly necessary pieces so the space works perfectly for your lifestyle.’

The following items are those minimalists consistently avoid – and which you may want to consider leaving out, too, to create an entryway that feels open, harmonious, and effortlessly beautiful.

1. Storage With Open Shelves

Open shelving may seem like an appealing choice for an entryway, offering easy access to everyday essentials and a chance to display decorative objects. Yet for minimalists, it’s rarely the answer. ‘Visible clutter is the antithesis of minimalism,’ explains Jing Ju, founder of JUJU Studio and Senior Designer of Global Creative Visual Merchandising at Tiffany & Co. ‘Closed storage options that conceal items are far more effective in keeping a space looking clean, calm, and inviting.’

The beauty of hidden storage lies in its subtlety. Baskets, bins, and drawers can keep shoes, keys, and other necessities perfectly organised, yet completely out of sight, allowing the eye to rest and the space to breathe. Strategic placement is key: a well-chosen cabinet or console provides function without drawing attention to the clutter it contains.

Minimalism in the entryway is not about removing practicality; it’s about presenting it elegantly. By concealing storage and carefully curating what remains visible, you create a sense of order that feels effortless. The result is an entrance that immediately feels calm, spacious, and welcoming – a space that signals both style and serenity the moment you step inside.

2. Too Much Wall Art

Decorating with art can instantly imbue an entryway with character and personality, but in a minimalist space, less is always more. ‘A single, carefully chosen piece can make a statement,’ explains Jing Ju. ‘A gallery wall, on the other hand, is often too busy for a minimalist entryway. The key is to reduce visual noise while still creating impact.’

The beauty of restraint lies in the story a single work can tell. ‘One thoughtfully selected piece of art can convey mood, personality, and narrative,’ says interior designer Jing Ju. ‘It allows the eye to rest, giving the space a sense of calm and cohesion that a crowded gallery never can.’ By letting a single artwork breathe, the entryway becomes a stage for reflection rather than distraction, setting a serene and welcoming tone from the moment you step inside.

3. Bulky Furniture That Dominates the Space

When it comes to minimalist entryways, scale is everything. Oversized furniture – whether a sprawling bench, an ornate coat rack, or a heavy console – can dominate the space, leaving little room for flow and making even a generous hallway feel cramped. Minimalism isn’t about eliminating comfort or practicality; it’s about ensuring every piece earns its place.

Choose entryway furniture that is proportionate to the dimensions of your entryway, with clean lines and simple silhouettes that support daily life without drawing undue attention. Slim benches with integrated storage, discreet consoles, or wall-mounted hooks allow the space to remain functional while maintaining a sense of openness. Thoughtful placement and restraint ensure that the room feels light, welcoming, and calm, setting the tone for the rest of the home.

By prioritising scale and proportion, the entryway can achieve a quiet elegance: a space that balances practicality with beauty, where every element feels intentional, and the overall effect is effortless yet refined.

4. Knickknacks That Clutter the Entryway

In a minimalist entryway, every object should have a purpose. Small trinkets and decorative items may feel charming, but when amassed, they quickly create visual noise and make the space feel cramped. A cluttered surface can overwhelm visitors the moment they step inside, undermining the sense of calm and order that a minimalist approach seeks to achieve.

Instead, choose a handful of meaningful or functional pieces – a single vase, a sculptural bowl for keys, or a small decorative object that resonates with the tone of the home. By keeping surfaces uncluttered and intentional, the entryway feels open, serene, and inviting. This careful curation transforms the space from a catch-all into a refined introduction to the home, where every element serves a purpose and contributes to a sense of effortless style.

5. Overly Fussy Doors

The door itself plays a pivotal role in setting the tone for a minimalist entryway. A highly decorative or overly fussy door can immediately clash with the sleek, calm aesthetic you’re aiming to create.

‘A minimalist entryway starts at the very first impression – the front door,’ explains Jennifer Renaud of Masonite. ‘Rather than ornate carvings or heavy embellishments, choose a door with clean, simple lines. A Shaker-style door or a full-lite door with understated glass not only reinforces a minimalist look but also welcomes natural light, creating a sense of openness and calm from the moment you step inside.’

The right door does more than define style; it sets the mood for the entire home. By prioritising simplicity and proportion, you allow the entryway to feel spacious, serene, and effortlessly inviting. In a minimalist approach, every detail matters – and the door is the first and most important piece of the puzzle.

Adopting a minimalist aesthetic transforms an entryway into a space that is both functional and effortlessly welcoming. ‘Start by looking at your entryway and asking what isn’t needed – what’s simply in the way,’ advises interior designer Emma Beryl. ‘It might be a small sculpture, a trinket, or even a chair or stool. Remove it and give it a new home.’

By clearing away the unnecessary, you allow the space to breathe, highlighting the details that truly matter – a carefully chosen piece of furniture, a single work of art, or a simple vase of flowers. The result is an entryway that feels calm, ordered, and thoughtfully considered, leaving a lasting impression on anyone who enters. Minimalism isn’t about austerity; it’s about creating a space that is beautiful, functional, and serene – the perfect introduction to your home.

When winter storms hit, your entryway becomes more than just a pass-through; it's your home's first line of defense against the cold, wet, and mess that comes with the season.

With the right setup, you can create a cozy 'entry shield' that can make the rest of your home feel cozier, cleaner, and far more welcoming.

From draft-proofing and clever storage to organizing your entryway, these five expert-approved tricks will keep warmth in, and chaotic cold channels out, setting the tone for a calm, cozy, home all winter long.

5 Cozy Entryway Hacks to Block Cold and Winter Mess

1. Layer Floor Coverings

Tina Priestly, CEO of Ready, Set, Refresh and a professional organizer, begins, 'Your entrance takes a significant hit in the winter. It's the catchall for everything that you track inside with you – wet footwear, a soaking wet coat, and snow and salt.'

The answer? Layering several entryway rug ideas to create a floor barrier to catch mess and prevent it from spreading.

'It's all about the layers,' Tina says. 'Place a heavy-duty outdoor runner mat [available at Walmart] to remove gravel and mud before entry. You'll want to replace the indoor carpet with a rug or runner that can be washed and will dry quickly. I tend to have a waterproof boot tray, from Amazon, just inside the door, because it's the unsung hero that will protect your flooring from salt rings and puddles.'

If you live in a very cold or wet climate, you can also invest in a boot dryer from Amazon. These standing racks speed up drying times for warmer boots, reducing the risk of mold growth and lingering odors.

2. Create Separation

Visual separation is a great way to stop mess from spreading beyond your entryway ideas, while making your entry feel cozier.

Jonathan Palley, CEO of Clever Tiny Homes, explains, 'Entryways are best at containing outdoor messes when they're blocked off by a door or at least clearly separated from the rest of the home with different flooring, for example. If your entryway sprawls into your living room, so does the dirt.'

If you are working with open plan entryways and cannot change the flooring, adding in larger rugs to divide the space is a good place to start. We love the area rugs by Ruggable as they are machine washable for easy winter maintenance.

3. Timed Lighting

Entryway lighting ideas play a huge role in making an entry 'shield' more efficient as the days get darker sooner in winter.

Rory Everitt, owner and principal interior designer at Rory Everitt Design, suggests, 'Be welcomed home with a warm glow by using a programmable outlet timer [available at Walmart] for the entry lamps, or a programmable timer switch [from Amazon] for ceiling lights. It's an easy DIY project to swap out a manual light switch with a programmable switch, enabling you to turn your porch and garage lights on automatically from 4:30 pm to 11 pm.'

For a more custom approach to lighting, consider upgrading lightbulbs to the Philips Hue Smart Bulbs from Amazon. These handy bulbs connect to your phone and will turn on after sunset when your phone comes back into close proximity after a day out, preventing energy wastage if you find yourself coming home at different times each evening.

Outside, motion sensor security lights from Walmart are ideal, acting additionally as great home security.

4. Use Curtains to Block Drafts

To prevent cold air from leaking into your home when the door is closed, the next step is to draft-proof your entryway. Eli Zimer, director of operations at Luxeaire HVAC Services, recommends, 'Look at the door and see if there are any gaps. It’s not uncommon for front doors to have a slight gap at the bottom. If that’s the case, I would recommend getting an under-the-door draft blocker [such as this decorative yet practical brass door brush from Amazon], which is something you can just slide on that helps fill that gap and block air from traveling through it.'

For gaps around the frame, consider caulking, such as the GE Foam and Silicone Insulation Kit from Lowe's, to prevent air leaks. Foam weatherstripping rolls, from Walmart, can also ensure a snug fit inside the frame to prevent both cold air and pests from entering in winter.

If making an entryway look welcoming is the top of your priority list, consider curtain hacks for a warmer home. Rory continues. 'If you have a particularly drafty entry, borrow an idea from restaurants in Chicago and NYC: Set up a seasonal drape around the door. A curved metal rod [available at Amazon] supports heavy drapery to create a 4ft diameter pocket that keeps cold air outside and prevents your heat from rushing out the door. Close the exterior door before parting the drape fabric to enter your home.'

We suggest investing in good-quality insulating curtains from Wayfair for added thermal benefit and to help make home heating more efficient.

5. Assign Homes for Items

The onslaught of bad weather comes with an onslaught of coats. Tina concludes, 'If you don't assign a place, jackets, scarves, hats, and mittens will take over. For coats and bags, consider setting up some durable wall hooks [from Walmart]. For hats, gloves, and scarves, I recommend a labeled box or basket from Target. A storage bench is even better because it hides clutter underneath and can be a place to sit down.

'If you have kids, make it easy for them. One hook and one bin each will reduce the chaos. Beyond preventing a messy entryway, you want it to feel easy to breathe when you walk in. Winter feels easier when everything has a home, and the space is cozy.'

If you rent and cannot add hooks, consider a hall tree coat rack from Wayfair, which has a built-in bench for the easy removal of boots.

Meet the Experts

With the practical aspects out of the way, you can focus on the easy tips to make your entryway look more beautiful for fall to set the perfect first impression for holiday guests.

Is there anything that drags a well-designed entryway down quite like a heap of creased boots abandoned by the front door? We don't think so.

That's where these discreet boot stuffers from Wayfair come in to help make your winter boots an entryway feature, rather than one of the things making an entryway look cluttered.

Better yet, it busts odors for a truly welcoming entry into your home this holiday hosting season.

How Discreet Boot-Shapers Save Entryway Aesthetics

Unlike unruly boot stands that shoes can easily fall from, boot stuffers from Wayfair are a discreet alternative to keep your boots in near-new shape without sacrificing your stylish entryway ideas. They actively make your best winter boots a stylish feature of your home's entrance, rather than contributing to clutter.

'Incorporating your functional pieces as decor is an easy tip to make your entryway more beautiful for fall without detracting from its functionality,' explains Charlotte Olby, Homes & Garden's style and trends editor. 'Stuffing boots to stand proudly beside your entryway furniture adds a subtle seasonal touch reminiscent of the cozy English country style that won't get in the way when you are welcoming your holiday guests.'

Unlike other boot shapers, these solid wood and canvas boot stuffers are made from aromatic red cedar wood – one of the best natural deodorizers for homes. Adding in these subtle odor-eliminators to key hotspots is one of the simple things people with a nice-smelling entryway always do to make this opening space more welcoming.

As a hygroscopic wood, red cedar absorbs moisture from your shoes to help tackle odors. Thanks to its natural oils, cedar wood is more resistant to water damage and warping than other woods. As a result, it can absorb excess moisture from the inside of boots to rebalance humidity levels and help to prevent mold or mildew from forming in your boots. They're a lifesaver for entryways without heating.

Better still, cedar is one of the top non-toxic pest control essentials, too, keeping bugs from burrowing into your footwear for hibernation while creating a non-toxic home.

Jade Piper, operations manager at BetterCleans, always recommends cedar for shoe and clothes storage, adding that they are useful across your entryway storage as a non-toxic alternative to mothballs.

She shares, 'Beyond the nice scent, cedar repels pests. Drop some into your clothing drawers, stash a few inside your shoe rack, line a couple inside your under-bed storage bins, or even place them near your hamper if it tends to get humid.'

To keep your boot stuffers fresh, Jade also recommends refreshing the scent every few months with a bit of cedar oil, available at Walmart.

What to Shop

Meet the Experts

Running out of space this hosting season for guest shoes? We have some great tips for maximizing space on your shoe rack to prepare for the holiday rush.

While they're crucial for keeping cozy in cold weather, winter coats can undoubtedly be cumbersome, bulky, and tricky to store.

After all, you need them to be accessible and easy to grab as you head out the door, but definitely don't want them to take up valuable space in your entryway, or give a cluttered and chaotic first impression to holiday guests as they walk through the door.

For that reason, we spoke to our professional organizers for their advice and wisdom on the best storage ideas for winter coats, for saving space without compromising on style this season. Here's what they had to say.

The Best Storage Buys for Storing Winter Coats in an Entryway

1. Wall Hooks

They're simple yet oh-so-effective: The humble wall hook, or hooks, are the top pick of Tracy McCubbin, CEO and founder of dClutterfly, for organizing an entryway.

'My favorite extra storage for overflow winter jackets is something so simple and accessible: these wall-mounted coat hooks available at Amazon,' she says. 'You can install as many as you need in your entryway, and place them in the exact spots you need. They will keep your entryway free from haphazardly thrown coats and bags this season!'

While they won't necessarily help to reduce visual clutter in an entryway, keeping coats off the floor or seating is one of the golden rules for a clutter-free entryway, and choosing the right hooks can make a tasteful statement without committing to a larger piece of furniture.

Plus, there are plenty of ways to use hooks to increase storage, making them versatile all-rounders.

2. Hall Trees

Next, I spoke to Ben Soreff, professional organizer at House to Home Organizing, who suggests investing in this Hall Tree With Bench And Shoe Storage, available at Wayfair.

'When it comes to these types of items, we want a small footprint,' he advises. 'Additionally, the key to using this item is all about habit and not letting items collect on the hooks. Most items that are not used often should live in the person's room.'

After all, as Ben highlights, shoes do tend to collect in entryways, as do jackets and bags. With this small entryway storage idea, though, there's enough room for everything you might need.

'Do a summer to winter swap and only keep everyday shoes in the entryway,' continues Ben. 'We want the system to be easy to use, without shoes falling through.'

Additionally, 'Clear plastic bins [available at Walmart] work well for each family member's items like hats and gloves,' he adds, and can be slotted into hall trees to keep everything categorized and organized. 'However, we don't want to just collect items, so a regular review is important.'

To really make the most of your space, if your hall tree has a hanging rail, Allison Flanders, founder of ORG NYC, also recommends using slim felt hangers, such as the bestselling HOUSE DAY Black Velvet Hangers, available at Amazon.

'You can instantly gain up to 30% more hanging space just by swapping out bulky wooden or plastic handers for slim felt ones,' she advises. 'They save space efficiently and make it easier to see what you actually own, which helps you keep only what you wear and love.' You can also, of course, use velvet hangers in your closet storage ideas, too, for a budget-friendly way to boost your storage space.

Additional benefits, she adds, include an increased capacity without overcrowding, better visibility of what you own, reduced visual clutter, and a greater versatility for different types of clothing.

3. Coat Racks

Finally, says Courtney Cummings, owner and founder of The Stylish Organizer, 'If you don’t have a designated coat closet or simply have some overflow, consider looking to your walls for some assistance. I love using the wall-mounted TJUSIG Hanger available at IKEA in entryways.

'Not only is it a great price, but the size allows you to stack two vertically or place two side by side to maximize your wall space. It doubles as a bag and hat hook, all without taking up any precious floor space. The tall thin design works well in smaller spaces where a horizontal coat rack option may not.'

Alternatively, suggests Tracy, opt for a free-standing model, such as the Simple Houseware Standing Coat and Hat Hanger Organizer Rack available at Amazon.

'It's portable, and you can use it for every season,' she says. 'But my favorite trick for extra winter coats is to declutter, because how many of them are you actually wearing?'

What to Shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

Avoid keeping these things making your entryway look cluttered, for a more serene space. After all, there are plenty of things you should never store in your entryway, including too many shoes and bulky furniture.

One thing I’ve learned about living in a compact home is that your doors aren’t just for closing. Making them multi-functional by adding a rack is an easy fix for a big but cyclical problem: Having enough hooks for guests to hang their coats.

That’s why I was thrilled to spot this heavy-duty five-hook rack for just 69 cents on Walmart. It’s perfect for a damage-free expansion of your small entryway, so guests are not bamboozled and left holding their winter garments awkwardly.

Why I’m snapping up this renter-friendly coat hook for my tiny entryway

You may have heard the adage: ‘There isn’t room to swing a cat in here’, and that is honestly the best way to describe my compact entryway. It’s a few feet wide, and about six feet long with three, yes three, doors entering it.

Whilst it’s not practical to add an over-the-door hook rack to the back of my front door, the bathroom and living room doors in the entryway are prime for acting as an extra coat holding spot when guests are in and out over the winter season of increased socializing.

This is great for small homes, apartments, and open plan living, especially if you want the small space storage solution to be transient. Pop the metal Walmart rack over the door ahead of guests, and tuck it away when they’re gone. It takes just a few seconds to make your guests feel welcome, and won’t damage your door or walls in the process. It’s a triple winner.

It also fits most standard doors with a width range of 1 3/8” to 1½” thick and is available in black or white to help blend in with most aesthetics with ease. The top hook is longer than the rest to stop handbags, coats and scarves from being pushed off by accident from full lower hooks.

Whilst the item isn’t available for pick up, it can be sent directly to your home with around a two-week estimated delivery, depending on where you are in the US. And though the individual item doesn’t yet have any user reviews, you can trigger Walmart’s refund policy if you’re not happy or if there is any issue.

And honestly, with the tiny price point of just 69 cents and two colors to choose from, you can’t really go wrong with this pick.

What to shop

If you’re after faster delivery or need a little bit more for your space, here are my other top picks for expanding your entryway storage and easily having some extra handy storage this winter.

Next, delve into stylish entryway ideas and entryway feng shui tips to make your space as welcoming as it can be.

The entryway comes into its own in the fall. More guests come through your door, going into cozy season, and unlike summer, where it's straight into the backyard, people mull, taking off coats and boots. Therefore, it pays to get your entryway looking more beautiful going into the autumn.

But learning how to improve your entry is about more than merely deciding what looks good. You want to create a feeling, especially at this time of year. You want the space to be cozy and welcoming.

So we asked designers for their best tips on how to make an entryway feel more beautiful for fall and winter. How can you create a space that feels like an elegant entrance but also makes guests feel welcome?

1. Bring in some new furniture

The key thing that can turn an entryway from feeling like a corridor into a proper room in the home is furniture. You should never overcrowd an entryway but it only takes one or two statement pieces to transform your entrance from a boring thoroughfare to a proper living space with character. Just be sure to pick out slimline furniture that won’t create a bottleneck but will provide storage opportunities and that all-important creative touch.

‘I think entryways should always make an impact, and furniture is such a great way to achieve it,' explains designer Sarah Vanrenen. 'I wanted the console used here to really stand out, which is why I used a strong red. I thought the impact would be even better if we also used red lamps and shades, which makes it modern but really looks dramatic alongside the ornate gilt mirror.’

And bringing furniture into an entryway can be a quick and inexpensive switch if you shop secondhand for vintage pieces, or look out for good quality bargain pieces. This cast-iron bench with a beautiful velvet top from Shea McGee's collection at Target would be a perfect quick addition to an entryway. Or the lacquer console table from the same collection will add that impact that Sarah talks of.

2. Always create a space for a seasonal vignette

Another really important tip for making an entryway feel more beautiful is to ensure you have some surface space to create vignettes. If you have the space, a table in the center of the room is the perfect spot.

‘A well-styled center table as you walk into a home has the power to instantly lift the entrance space and create a welcoming vignette for guests,’ says Emily Carlisle, director of Stuart Carlisle Interiors. ‘It gives the homeowner the opportunity to style up their entryway throughout the seasons with differing foliage and bring some warmth and personality into a space that is often dominated by harder materials and practical storage solutions.’

If a table in the center of your entryway isn't an option, adding some foliage to a console table will always look lovely. And style it up a bit more, just as you would a coffee table, adding some books and trinket trays that will make even the smallest space feel considered.

The trend for tiny tables this fall also opens the opportunity to add a teeny surface to your entryway, which you can style up just as you would a larger center table. This tiny brass cocktail table from Pottery Barn could squeeze into any size entryway.

3. Switch out your lighting

Lighting in an entryway is key to creating a soft and inviting space, and it can, of course, make the space instantly more beautiful. In this space, designer Juliette Byrne added drama to this traditional space using the Cloud Chandelier by Apparatus, creating an amazing contrast with the period features.

‘We would always recommend oversizing the light fittings in entryways as this adds a dramatic element to your entrance,’ explains Juliette. ‘We chose this fitting as we wanted to contrast contemporary decorative lighting with the original Georgian staircase. We used a polished plaster in dark grey on the walls so the white opalescent of the light remained the main feature.’

If you are looking for a quicker fix, wall lighting can add interest too, and with so many battery-operated designs out there now you don't need to call the electrician. Pooky is the master of the cordless wall light and its creative yet classic collection would be ideal for updating an entryway.

4. Invest in pretty but practical storage

Entryway storage is an essential all year round, but this space just seems to get more cluttered in the fall and winter. There are suddenly more coats, more shoes, more stuff. And a cluttered space does not a beautiful entryway make.

So use your storage to both corral the clutter and add something stylish to the space. Large wicker baskets, like these round chunky designs from Target, are perfect as they are spacious for hiding bulky items, and they have a lid, so no stray shoelaces. An ottoman that opens up so you can use it as both storage and seating (like this one from Wayfair) is also a good idea.

5. Add softness underfoot

Want to instantly make your entryway feel more beautiful and more cozy? Throwing down a rug or switching out your current one to something that feels more apt for fall is probably the quickest thing you can do.

An entryway is a high-traffic area, so you'll want to pick something that looks stylish but can also handle a bit of wear and tear. You could go for a really durable fabric like jute – Rugs USA has a checkerboard design that has a bit more to it than a plain jute rug, and the darker colorway feels right for fall. Or you could broaden your options and go for a washable rug that's designed for spaces like entryways. Ruggable has a huge selection; there's even a fall collection filled with autumnal motifs.

Getting your entryway ready is one of the first jobs on your list when it comes to switching your home around for the changing seasons. And not all these switches need to be big or costly to make an impact. You could even try shopping your own home – is there a storage bench in your bedroom that could have a new life in the entryway? Or a tiny table in the living room going unnoticed? You could bring in books and artwork, too. And don't forget a big vase of fall foliage.

If, like me, you have a teeny tiny entryway or yours opens straight into the living space, this chic entryway storage with a bench is the perfect fix for a lack of functional sitting space. You’ll be able to store crucial footwear and outdoor items, whilst also having somewhere comfortable to take shoes on and off.

This $210 discounted Wayfair offer is a perfect small home addition, especially if things are cramped in your entryway.

With it, you will instantly level up your small entryway storage ideas to banish shoe mess and a lack of sitting space in one smart, and very chic, swoop. I've also handpicked six gorgeous, multifunctional alternatives to consider.

This entryway storage with bench deal is too good to miss

I hate having to hop around, perch on the uncomfortable stairs inside my house, or take my shoes further into my carpeted living room in order to have somewhere sensible to sit.

In case you’re dealing with the same nuisance in a compact living space, this entryway storage bench with built-in seating is the answer. The padded cushion-top will add comfort, while the sturdy frame can safely take up to 300 lbs.

Its compact size and chic neutral look, which comes in four colors, three of which are currently in stock at Wayfair and available for free two-day delivery (espresso, white or gray), makes it the quick, affordable fix that will last.

Happy shoppers rate it highly, with verified buyer, Dawn Marie of Staten Island, NY, stating that it’s ‘stylish, fits perfectly in my space. Comfortable to sit on and strong. Hides shoes perfectly!!! Love it.’

The compact unit comes with three storage compartments underneath the seating, which can be configured with shelves, and comes with the handle hardware.

You can alternatively leave the shelf out and use well-placed storage baskets that are then allocated to your housemates or family members for seasonal items, such as knitwear, boots, and umbrellas.

You’ll need to purchase those separately, and they’ll need to fit in the inner dimensions (11.8 x 14.6 x 13.6), but watch out for the internal hardware. I’d suggest waiting till the bench arrives and measuring carefully yourself to make sure the baskets have proper clearance to slide in and out with ease, and without catching on hardware that breaks them down over time, or simply annoys you daily.

Adding an entryway storage with a bench like this, especially at such a great price point, will help keep your entryway free of mess and clutter.

What to shop

If you're partial to an ottoman, dive into our ottoman ideas for perfect storage inspiration. They're a great addition to the end of the bed, or in the living room for storing throws in cozy season, or storing out-of-season clothes for the longer term.

When I saw HGTV star Joanna Gaines’ lake house entryway, I was immediately captivated by how effortlessly it blends ’70s-inspired warmth with a modern, livable feel. The mid-century modern entryway has a cozy, inviting energy that draws your eye to every carefully considered detail without ever feeling overdone.

The warm color scheme is what really stands out: rich, earthy tones that feel grounded and welcoming. Deep wood accents – from the structured staircase to the rich-toned front door – give the entryway a timeless quality. A patterned runner in shades of red, burnt orange, and muted gold adds an autumnal touch that brings the space to life.

A fall-inspired, 70s color palette brings warmth and depth to any space, drawing on rich tones like terracotta, rust, ochre, and golden yellow. These hues echo the changing leaves and seasonal landscapes, creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere. When paired with deeper colors, such as mustard yellow, copper, and burnt sienna, they add dimension while maintaining a relaxed, grounded feel. Perfect for interiors seeking both nostalgia and timeless comfort, this palette effortlessly balances vibrancy with serenity.

‘Browns and honeyhued colors are re-taking their rightful place in our interiors. Shades of honey, caramel, and chocolate will bring warmth and comfort into our homes, creating cozy enveloping spaces,’ says Little Greene's Ruth Mottershead. It's a color trend we expect to see continue into 2026 and beyond.

When it comes to choosing the right room color ideas, Joanna never falters. In fact, I would argue it is the perfect way to start a moodboard if you are ever stuck for inspiration.

Natural stone flooring adds texture and a sense of solidity, while a wooden bench with soft, earthy upholstery creates a focal point that feels both practical and stylish. Small touches, like a stack of books and a potted cactus tucked in the corner, add personality and charm, giving the space that effortlessly curated feel Joanna is so well known – and loved – for.

The entryway sets the tone for the entire home: warm, inviting, and thoughtfully layered with retro charm and modern functionality. Even from a single glimpse, it’s easy to appreciate how Joanna balances nostalgia with livability, creating spaces that feel both stylish and approachable.

It’s the kind of design that makes you pause, admire, and imagine how you might bring a little of that same warmth and texture into your own home.

Shop the look

Bring a touch of Joanna Gaines’s style to your home with my handpicked favorites from her collections at Walmart, Target, and Magnolia.

In my tiny entryway, there isn’t enough space to even put on your coat, so any storage items have to really work hard.

For a while, my tall metal shoe rack worked, but now it’s time to pivot to closed storage, as the visual clutter of all our shoes annoys me every time I see it. That’s why I am grabbing this $99 half price flash deal on a Wayfair slimline closed rattan storage unit, which fits perfectly in my small hallway.

It’s a great small entryway storage idea as it has concealed shelving, a gap underneath for convenient but not prescribed organizing, and a top surface that can be used for additional lighting or a place to pop our keys and mail. For such a compact unit, it really packs a punch.

Why this compact shoe storage is so popular

I’m not the only one in love with this unit, with average ratings levelling out at 4.5/5. One anonymous, but verified Wayfair shopper gave it five stars, adding, ‘It is perfect for our “no storage” household! Its slim and cute appearance is perfect for our doorway!'

Another said, ‘Love this piece! It’s beautiful and was pretty easy to put together! I was able to fit about 12 pairs of shoes in it.’

The only thing left for me to do is organize my shoes and get busy selling or donating the surplus ahead of my fall decluttering jobs.

What to shop

Check out more of our shopping editors' latest handpicked Labor Day Deals in our dedicate hub.

Lately, I've found myself completely hooked on '70s interior style. Just take a look at my Pinterest boards – I've saved everything from retro wallpapers and shag carpets to sunken living rooms and wood-paneled interiors.

But as someone who lives in a small space, I also need to be realistic about what I can fit in my home, which is why when I saw this vinyl storage cabinet from Joanna Gaines's Target collection I instantly added it to my cart. With its warm wood finish, old-school fabric door, and sleek chrome base, this cabinet is the perfect retro home decor idea. And since it's not too big but has lots of interior space, it's ideal for storage in even the smallest of spaces.

Although it's sold as a storage cabinet to hold vinyl records (so retro, I know), this cabinet can be used to store all sorts of objects – clothing in a bedroom, books in a living room, or even extra serveware in a dining room. And did I mention it's on sale? That's right – this charmingly '70s cabinet is only $119.99. Everyone say 'Thanks, Joanna!'

If you want to lean into the retro charm of the '70s aesthetic, but don't have much space to do so, this cabinet is the decor piece for you. It's small enough to fit in the tiniest of spaces, provides extra storage both inside and on top, and looks funky and retro while doing so.

And like I said, even though it's sold as a vinyl storage cabinet, it can be used for pretty much anything. I'm planning on using this cabinet as an entryway idea to fill the empty spot next to my front door. I'll store miscellaneous decor within its shelves, and on top, I'll place a catchall for my keys, wallet, and phone.

Aside from my praise and styling ideas for this storage cabinet, it seems reviewers have lots to say about it, too. 'This was an absolute breeze to assemble and seems to be made of high-quality materials,' one reviewer wrote. 'The fabric door adds a very retro vibe while keeping it modern with the metal stand.' Another reviewer commented on its storage abilities and mentioned using it to hold board games and puzzles instead of records.

Joanna Gaines certainly knew what she was doing when she designed this cabinet. It has the potential to bring both storage and style into your home.

These cabinets are stylish, roomy, and practical furnishings that can provide extra storage in your home. If you're looking for more clever storage ideas, find list of small home storage solutions that'll keep your home tidy and look good while doing so.

When it comes to transitioning the home from summer to fall, the key is to take things slow. Don't adorn everything in plaid and pumpkin motifs on the first day of September; be subtle with your switches so your home gently and stylishly turns from season to season.

Shea McGee's fall decor ideas that she's been sharing on Instagram are the perfect example of this steady change. In her most recent video, she shares how she's styled her entryway for the fall season using vintage-style decor and furniture from the new McGee & Co. Fall Collection. It's cozy and inviting, and there's definitely a feeling of fall, but it's subtle and stylish too.

Shea says, 'I'm standing in the entryway of my fall shoot, and there are so many pieces that I'm excited to share with you.' From a statement tapestry to a one-of-a-kind console table, this is how Shea styled her entryway in anticipation of the new season.

Beginning with the show-stopper piece, Shea grounds the entryway vignette with the vintage-style tapestry that everyone has been loving since the collection launched. 'I know you can see the tapestry, it's so good,' she says. 'This is a new piece for us, it's woven and detailed. It's inspired by antique tapestries that I love and have collected over the years for clients. It's big, it makes a statement, and I love that it really sets the tone for our entire fall collection.'

Featuring classic fall colors, the tapestry is perfect as it doesn't scream fall, it's a stylish way to honor the season. It's heavy in texture, with a detailed woven surface, giving the empty wall some warmth and a sense of snugness. Note the rattan storage boxes too, which (much like the tapestry) give the area an earthy feel reminiscent of the English country style. Again, all fall feels but no cliché tropes.

It's not just the console table styling that makes the entryway feel seasonally appropriate; it's the table itself. The design might be part of the new fall collection, but it's a timeless piece that would of course work all year round. The darker wood and bobbin details do lean into two of the big trends of 2025, but at the same time, this piece looks like something you could have picked up secondhand in an antique store.

Shea says, 'Below the tapestry is our Heathcliff console table. I love the detail of the bobbin so much that we've incorporated it into so many pieces. We've got a console table, a desk, and even a counter stool. We took the bobbin and added extra bead detail, so this is very special and unique to McGee & Co. Then, we added drawers with wood knobs so they blend in seamlessly. It also has a great shelf for styling.'

And of course, the styling. It's what really gives this classic setup a seasonal vibe, those smaller decor pieces that nod to autumn. From the artisanal vase filled with autumnal foliage to the marble tray holding an autumnal candle, these small pieces are what clearly say 'it's autumn', they give the area depth and create a warm welcome.

Shop Shea's fall entryway decor

Not all seasonal decor needs to be obvious, especially early on, when you just want subtle nods to the shift from summer to fall. Shea's tips for autumnal styling focus on classic pieces that, yes, do have a feeling of fall as they are warm and welcoming, but they are also timeless and don't feel overly styled or cliché.

I don’t know who decided four-by-four porcelain dishes were enough for real life, but they’ve clearly never met my entryway. Between the sunglasses in rotation, keys, and my beauty products that migrate with me wherever I go, the trinket tray never stood a chance.

Hence the 'purse bowl' – a term coined for a glorified vessel with the footprint of a small sculpture and the storage of a glove compartment to make my chronically cluttered entryway look more intentional.

Technically, it doesn’t have to be a bowl. This home organizing idea could be a box, a serving tray, a pedestal – anything with enough real estate to hold what itty bitty 'catchall' trays try to. Mine fits my wallet, headphones, four lip products, and a perfume oil, with room to spare for keys.

Professional organizers will tell you a designated ‘drop zone’ is an essential tidying method. The bag bowl just makes it…chicer. These are the daily pieces you actually want on display – hair ties, cash, the well-chosen novel you’re mid-way through – they read less junk drawer essentials and more stylishly curated clutter.

The throughline between the familiar trinket catchall and a full-on purse bowl is that both disguise clutter as decor. The latter just has the range to actually hold everything you need when running out the door – and guarantees you’ll never lose your keys again.

Ahead, nine vessels worthy of the 'purse bowl' title.

The purse bowl might not be a new concept, but it's changed the way I organize my entryway. I no longer have an array of trinket bowls within which I scatter the contents of my purse; instead, everything lives in this one chic space. I know where things are when I need them, and it's all easy to grab before I head out the door, too.

You couldn’t swing a proverbial cat in our entryway, which is just a few feet wide and about eight feet long.

That’s why I have been using sturdy and stackable Joseph Joseph shoe organizers with pull-out trays elsewhere in my home for the last eight months and I love them.

It’s a good fix for small entryways and has been a helpful shoe storage idea in our compact home.

I love these stackable Joseph Joseph shoe storage boxes

I personally keep my Joseph Joseph shoe box stack in the corner of our kitchen diner in an awkward gap that’s no good for much else. It’s not been a hardship to store extra shoes there. We grab the pair we want and put them on in the usual spot. On our return home, we take them off in our entryway, as we're a shoes-off household, and walk them to their spot to put away.

For a while, we stored our shoes under the stairs instead. You can also use stackable boxes in your bedroom, as storage under your bed, or just about any space you need.

Shoppers love them too, rating them five stars. Verified Amazon purchase Rashda said, ‘Made with great quality, really good function. 10 times better [than] the cheap one.’

I couldn’t agree more, as I have previously wasted money on cheap shoe storage ideas that didn’t last the test of time or do what was promised.

What to shop

If you need some inspiration for useful narrow entryway ideas, here are my favorite items to help you make the most of yours.

Go vertical to maximize storage in compact spaces, or consider a schedule of streamlining with our decluttering calendar to help you clear out gradually and without overwhelm.

The summer is nearing its end, and back-to-school season is rapidly approaching. Your kids have finished their summer homework, and their school supplies are ready for the first day of class. But there's one spot in your home that you might have overlooked during all of that back-to-school prep. That is, the mudroom.

Of course, the mudroom is subject to lots of traffic during the summertime, but nothing compares to the chaos of back-to-school season. From scrambling to grab backpacks and coats in the morning to kicking off shoes and tossing those same backpacks in the afternoon, the mudroom can feel like a zoo on school days.

That said, the right back-to-school mudroom upgrades can streamline your daily routine and alleviate any stress caused by clutter. 'A well-designed mudroom acts like the house’s backstage,' interior designer Caron Woolsey says. 'Everything needed for a graceful exit or reentry lives here. Labeled hooks, hidden drawers, and a proper bench keep backpacks from migrating to the breakfast table and shoes from scattering like confetti.'

But what can you do to get your mudroom ready for the upcoming season? How can you ensure your mudroom stays tidy, and works hard in this busy time? I asked designers to share the best back-to-school mudroom upgrades that can help organize the space and make your life just a little bit easier, while looking chic, too, of course.

1. Take advantage of the walls

Mudrooms, although typically small in size, serve a big purpose. They're the place to store all sorts of clothes, shoes, and bags, and during back-to-school season, they can end up looking overwhelmingly cluttered. Because of this, it's important to make every inch of the space useful – including the walls.

Rather than cramming the floor space with more benches, baskets, or containers that can make a mudroom feel even smaller, look up. The walls of a mudroom serve as a prime location for mudroom storage, hanging shelving units for cubbies or mounting hooks for coats.

It can also help to assign spots of the mudroom to family members. 'Designating a cubby or hook for each family member streamlines mornings by making it easy to grab coats, backpacks, or shoes,' interior designer Liz Williams tells me. By giving everyone a place to keep their things on the wall, the mudroom can stay organized, and the schooltime rush can feel slightly less chaotic.

2. Use a storage bench

If there is one thing that every mudroom needs, it has to be a bench. A bench with storage – that is. 'A bench with storage underneath is also a game-changer for putting on shoes quickly or stashing away less-used items,' Liz tells me. These types of benches are ideal for busy mornings, preparing for school.

Although I'm a firm believer that every mudroom should have a bench, not all benches are made for mudrooms. 'If you are planning to incorporate a bench, I would recommend avoiding a painted finish and instead opting for either a stained hardwood bench top that can be sanded and re-stained easily over the years, or a solid surface or stone top that will be able to withstand the usage,' interior designer Katherine Pierce of Copper Sky Design and Remodel advises. 'In cases where a painted bench top is necessary for the aesthetic, consider adding a cushion in a stain-resistant fabric on top for both practicality and aesthetic purposes.'

Whether built-in or freestanding, storage benches are an easy upgrade for your mudroom that'll drastically help you during back-to-school season, and they can also keep your mudroom clutter free all year long.

3. Incorporate a water bottle filling station

While not a necessity for the mudroom, a water bottle filling station can make back-to-school mornings significantly easier and help your kids remember to stay hydrated throughout the day.

'I love incorporating a water bottle filling station into a mudroom when space allows,' Katherine tells me. 'By including an ice maker, a small sink with filtered water or a wall-mounted water bottle filler, and a place to store water bottles within easy reach of children, you can easily create a space that both promotes autonomy and takes one more thing off your plate in the morning.'

By positioning the water station in the mudroom and next to the primary entryway, it's easily accessible for anyone entering and exiting the house, any time of day.

4. Try a hall tree or tall cabinet

While mudrooms are primarily used to store shoes, coats, and other out-the-door necessities, they end up becoming filled with all sorts of miscellaneous objects. Mudroom storage should reflect that. One solution to help get a mudroom ready for back-to-school season is to incorporate a hall tree or tall cabinet into its design – either built-in or freestanding.

'Think about all the things you are constantly running back through the house to retrieve before you head out the door, and then give them a home in your mudroom,' Katherine recommends. 'Shoe storage and hooks for coats and backpacks are a given, but what about socks, backup sports uniforms, and water bottles, or tablet and computer storage? If you have the space, a tall cabinet with outlets inside can go a long way in a mudroom.'

Just as assigned coat hooks are helpful, it's also helpful to designate a spot in that hall tree or tall cabinet for each person in the family. 'One wall with vertical storage per family member works wonders [in the mudroom],' Caron tells me. 'Closed storage above and drawers below keep clutter at bay.' When looking for hall trees or cabinets, consider how much storage they have and the ways in which they can streamline your back-to-school mornings.

5. Keep it closed

Sometimes, the best way to keep a mudroom clean is to choose furnishings that close. 'Closed storage is key,' Liz says. 'Lockers or tall cabinets keep the chaos contained and prevent visual clutter.' And above all else, closed storage simply looks good. It creates a sense of cohesion in a space that often looks and feels chaotic.

'Consider the unsightly but functional items stored in your mudroom and use this as an opportunity to incorporate those items into your design,' Katherine recommends. 'With just a few simple cabinetry modifications, you can create a built-in pet crate that blends seamlessly into your cabinetry, making your space functional without sacrificing aesthetics.'

If you have the ability to design the mudroom with built-in, closed storage solutions, consider doing so. This will greatly improve the look of your space, especially once school starts up again.

6. Don't forget about color

As you think about the practical and functional upgrades for your mudroom this back-to-school season, it's also important to consider the overall look of the space, and in particular, its color. According to Caron, a mudroom's goal is utilitarian, but that doesn't mean it has to be painted in sterile shades. 'A classic paint color hides scuffs but still looks refined,' she tells me.

'I love using painted cabinetry in a rich tone, like a navy blue or a rich green, to bring in personality,' Liz recommends for the mudroom. 'Incorporating natural wood elements on benches or doors can add some warmth, while a durable rug or striped runner softens the space. Keeping the color palette cohesive and the surfaces clean allows the room to feel less chaotic, even when it can be a heavily used space.'

'A mudroom may not be the showpiece, but when it’s thoughtfully designed, it quietly makes the whole house run better,' Caron says.

With these mudroom upgrades, you can ensure a smooth transition back-to-school this fall. But before the back-to-school rush really begins, consider cleaning the mudroom completely before incorporating these designer-recommended upgrades. This way, you can start the year on a clean slate with furnishings to help you get through each busy day.

Mudrooms have become a staple in American homes. A stopping place between the outdoors and a more cozy room, it's the perfect place to kick off dirty shoes and soggy outerwear, whilst being warmly invited into the home.

Joanna Gaines has proven just how stylish mudroom ideas can be in the latest installment of her 'Mini Reni' series. Moody colors, classic patterns, and brass details have given this underused corner a new lease of life.

It's convinced me that the mudroom is the perfect place to introduce bold design features – and I've found almost everything she used, so you can easily recreate the look.

I often gravitate towards decorating with neutrals in more functional spaces like utility rooms and mudrooms. They just instantly feel clean and spacious – something we all want from our functional zones.

However, Joanna Gaines' latest project has convinced me it's time to put down the white paint and embrace a bolder scheme. The mudroom transformation strongly supports decorating with a moody color palette to create the most striking design.

'This room was basically a shell, and the client really wanted it to feel charming; she wanted it to feel moody and super functional. We added these cabinets just because it's a mudroom, it needs lots of storage,' Joanna explains in Magnolia's Instagram video.

To nail the moody look her client desired, she went bold with a deep blue hue on the walls, woodwork, and paneling. Painted in Coffee Nook from Magnolia Home, described as 'a dark smoky gray with blue undertones,' it's a moody hue that feels rich and warming, exactly what you want from the first room you step into from outside.

'We added this arched cased opening here,' she notes, referencing the opening between the mudroom and the adjoining art room that has been painted the same dark color. 'She really liked this idea of charming anywhere we could apply an arch or a scalloped – it's something we were really mindful of.'

There is a clear color story throughout the mudroom that blends moody hues with a timeless aesthetic. And the wallpaper, Floral Treasures Wallpaper in Beach Glass from Papier, a warm neutral covering with a traditional floral repeat, contrasts beautifully with the dark paint and really sets the palette for the scheme.

'All of the colors we implemented in this space tie back to this cute little wallpaper we found. You've got the blush, and then you've got that hint of darker terracotta in the middle that you'll see on these floors.'

A feature that really catches your eye is the mudroom tiles introduced throughout the space. Checkerboard floors are a classic design that's becoming increasingly popular again, and they add so much interest to this mudroom. The two tile colors reference that statement wallpaper, creating a sense of cohesion.

'And then to add a little more of that fabric softness, we have this classic stripe fabric for this bench moment,' she adds, referencing the custom-made and upholstered seat cushion in Perennials Fabrics' Ticking Stripe Fabric in Dove, which adds another layer of classic style to the design.

The adjoining art room has been color drenched in the same dark blue color, creating a bold and all-encompassing space. While the mudroom area feels more pared-back with lots of hidden storage and clean lines, the art area is all open shelving with supplies on full display.

'This is the space where we were designing for her to create in. For artists, I know it's nice to be able to see all of your materials and everything you want to work with on your shelves. But there's also quite a lot you want to hide! It was key to make sure there was some order to creating, but also some inspiration right in front of her,' Joanna explains.

The space is busy, but it's also perfectly curated. With most of the owner's art supplies displayed on the open shelving, on the opposite wall, the Quinn Wooden Dish Cabinet from Magnolia has been introduced in an unexpected way.

'We had this piece designed for the store, originally inspired for a kitchen where you'd have your plates, any glassware, and spices, but knowing that we had this bigger wall here, I felt it would be great for her art, papers, and supplies. This is one of those products that you can use in different ways, and I just love the way that it looks on this wall.'

But what ties the whole space together are the decorative accents. Joanna has kept the decor simple to avoid filling the room with visual clutter. The pedestal table with a twisted leg detail adds a warmer, natural texture and gives the potted plant height and a sense of permanence.

On the wall, a round mirror bounces light around the room and is perfectly placed for a quick appearance check as the homeowner leaves and enters. And directly opposite, perched on the ledge of the wall paneling, are two gold vases filled with blooms and a large, simplistic art print.

While the decor has been scaled back, they offer a taste of the busier displays in the adjoining art room and give a subtle hint at the style and personality of the rest of the home. Even the lighting, two Art Deco-inspired ceiling lights, and a more vintage feel that elevates the space.

And for me, it's a lesson in getting a mudroom design right. It's equal parts moody and charming, and it remains bold and stylish without compromising on function. It's a space I want to recreate in my own home, ASAP!

This mudroom proves that every room in your home deserves the same love and attention. In many ways, these smaller, more functional rooms serve as the perfect opportunity to create a bold statement, no matter your interior design style.

Approach designing a mudroom in the same way you would a cloakroom – and don't be afraid to draw on mudroom trends to inspire your decor. And, as Joanna says, 'There's nothing more satisfying than taking a small space and maximizing it with cuteness.'

There's nothing I love more than heading to my local thrift stores and spending the day scouring the endless aisles of goodies, seeking out some one-of-a-kind vintage pieces to add to my collection. While sourcing a specific piece isn't always possible, I'm never left disappointed by what's on offer and usually leave with something special.

There are second-hand pieces all over my home, but one room I would like to inject some more character into is my entryway. The entryway is the room you first see when you walk through the door and acts as an initial snippet of what's to come, so it's important to make this space welcoming, representative, and authentic to you. Thrift stores are filled with all sorts of meaningful decor and antique furniture that can transform a sometimes neglected, transitional room into an inviting space full of depty and interest.

So I asked interior designers and vintage experts exactly what second-hand pieces to buy at a thrift store to elevate my entryway, these are the five key pieces they reccomended.

1. Meaningful trinkets

I am of the opinion that entryways must always incorporate something personal. Whether that's a trinket box filled with sentimental knick-knacks or a framed picture that speaks to you, it's always a good idea to seek out a small but mighty piece of decor that represents your style.

Kate Walker, Founder & Director of KWD, explains the importance of incorporating a meaningful secondhand gem in the entryway. 'I’ve always believed that a truly beautiful home should feel curated, not just decorated. The most compelling spaces are those that evolve over time and reflect the personal history of those who live there. Antiques, heirlooms, or even a special find from a garage sale can bring soul and story into a space, particularly an entryway, which sets the tone for the entire home.'

Designing a home that feels like you is all about seeking out personal pieces. Kate delves into the entryway she designed above, explaining, 'The entryway, like much of the home, was layered with pieces sourced from unexpected places – vintage artworks picked up at local markets, sculptural lamps found at thrift stores, and even everyday treasures like shells collected by the children at the beach. These elements brought a lived-in authenticity and emotional connection that can’t be replicated by store-bought items alone.'

2. Upcycled seating

Seating is crucial in an entryway. Often, guests will be taking their shoes off (or putting them back on) or will simply need a place to sit while you say your goodbyes. A characterful chair is a welcome addition in this space and can be purchased for a reasonable price at most thrift stores.

Kate says, 'Thrifted pieces also offer the opportunity to reimagine something with potential, like reupholstering a vintage chair in a contemporary fabric, or restoring an old light fitting to suit a new setting. It’s not about cost; it’s about character. An entryway should feel like an invitation into your world, and layered, collected pieces help create that welcome.'

Embrace vintage furniture trends and opt for an ornate style in the entryway, such as a rococo-inspired dining chair or a dark wood Art Nouveau variety to give your space some decadence. Don't be put off by the condition of thrifted furniture either, as you can give your pieces a refresh by channeling painted furniture ideas or taking a vintage frame and reupholstering it with a vibrant fabric.

3. Chest of drawers

While furniture may not initially come to mind when you think of thrift stores, you'd be surprised at the amount of preloved pieces hidden in some of the bigger branches. An entryway is the perfect place to decorate with antiques of all kinds, but an old set of chest of drawers will always transform the area, acting as the ideal focal point and adding some much needed entryway storage.

Michael Angus, founder of Angus & Company, proposes this idea, saying, 'Foyers and or entries, I think, should inform like as it is in good stories, a foreshadowing of events to come. A prelude as to what is about to unfold. Most entries are not usually very large, so I feel should have an impact. The good news is that it is easier to achieve in smaller spaces. An interesting chest of drawers provides useful storage, character, and is a place for a lamp (which is a must in an entryway).'

The beauty of a chest is that you can store essentials in its drawers, for example, your keys or wallet that you'll need before you leave. And you can also use the surface to create vignettes and, as Michael mentions, add some soft lighting. If you can't make it to the thrift or your local branch doesn't stock any pieces that catch your eye, there are plenty of places to buy vintage furniture online for competitive prices.

4. Vintage pottery or china

Decorating with vintage ceramics will always make an entryway feel inviting and unique. You can find all sorts of old vases, bowls, and plates at the thrift store that will make this space feel homely and filled with charm and patina.

Take the entryway above, designed by Betsy Burnham. She has started an antique collection of blue and white pottery that transforms the area into a focal point, demanding the attention of guests when they enter.

'The entry of your home makes a statement about what and who is inside, so it’s fun to play with vintage pieces here,' explains Betsy. 'Multiples, like the blue and white pottery we collected for this home on Coronado Island (some old, some new), art, an antique bench or table – these are items that immediately speak to the homeowner's sensibility and personality. And how better to showcase pieces that have been previously loved, that have a patina as well as a history?'

Whether you're using a vintage china bowl for your keys and day-to-day essentials or you've sourced an ornate vase to hold a bouquet of fresh stems, thrifted pottery and china give an empty surface an extra layer of grandeur.

5. Artwork

Decorating with art will give any room some individuality, but the beauty of this technique is the character it brings to an entryway, representing your style as soon as you walk in. Thrift stores are filled with prints, illustrations, and paintings for affordable sums that can make the perfect centerpiece hung solo on a wall or with an array of other vintage pictures.

Decorating with vintage art is surprisingly easy, especially if you're channeling an eclectic look. You can make an accent wall out of pictures you've thrifted, and create cohesion by purchasing matching frames, or you can source one large painting to hang right at the center of your space above a chest of drawers.

Thrift stores are filled with treasures and can transform a pass-through area like an entryway into a personalized, meaningful room that's representative of its owner. There are plenty of second-hand pieces that make all the difference to other spaces, too, such as thrift store finds that will transform a living room.

Even the most modestly sized entryway makes a statement. It’s the first glimpse guests get of your home, and in tight or narrow spaces, every square inch must work hard both practically and visually. Yet too often, clutter, poor choices, or misplaced ambition disrupt that delicate balance.

There are key things to never put in an entryway, for example, excessive decor (unless you are blessed with a capacious lobby), which can immediately feel very overwhelming. While there are so many inspiring small entryway ideas to explore, it also pays to understand what to avoid. Form must follow function closely here, and common missteps can quickly crowd or compromise a space that sets the tone for the rest of your home’s interior.

From bulky furniture to overlooked lighting misfires, here we will spotlight five key offenders that undermine both utility and aesthetics in a small entryway – and share what to consider instead.

5 things you should never put in a small entryway

1. Shoe racks

There are few things that visually shrink and clutter an entryway than scattered shoes. Even when they’re neatly lined up in rows, it still somehow feels like total pandemonium. If shoes absolutely must live here, and there is no other area of the home that can house them, then discreet, stylish storage ideas are most definitely required.

All too often, the go-to solution is to invest in shoe racks. Whilst this helps relinquish a small amount of floor space, the visual clutter and feeling that the space is about transit, mess and function over form remains very much the same.

Alex Keith, co-founder and Interior Designer at London-based interior design studio Otta Design, can’t bear the sight of shoe racks in this compact space. ‘Hallways are the first thing your guests see when you welcome them into your home, so first impressions are key,' she explains. ‘An overflowing shoe rack is a no-no, especially in a hall where space is a challenge.’

Olivia Caplan, an interior designer who often shares her renovation tips and inspiration on social media, is also offended by the ubiquitous shoe rack ‘lack of shoe storage really gets my goat, even if it's a couple of baskets tucked under a sideboard, makes all the difference’ she notes.

So, what to use instead? As Olivia suggests, baskets could be a good solution, but perhaps not if you have a large family. ‘Bulky shoe racks, or too many hooks, can quickly make the space feel cramped and chaotic,’ notes Cotswolds-based interior designer Sean Symington. ‘We work with a lot of period townhouses where entryways tend to be on the narrow side, and the trick is all in the proportions. Choose a very slim console table, ideally one you can skirt for added softness and hidden shoe storage.'

Indeed, the retro-inspired skirted furniture trend doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon, and can hide ugly shoe racks easily. Depending on the width of the space, a bench with hidden storage is an ideal solution. In my home, I have recently put an antique monk’s bench in the entryway, with storage under the seat, in which trainers, sandals, dog leads, and umbrellas get haphazardly thrown in. Out of sight, out of mind.

2. Poor lighting

Most small hallways suffer from inadequate lighting. In many homes, good, layered lighting ideas have been implemented across most rooms, and forgotten when it comes to entryways. Since small, cramped hallways are already light-deprived spaces, there is a tendency to illuminate the space with one, bright, white pendant light, in the hopes of casting as much light into the space as possible.

However, this can result in the space feeling very jarring, and can often feel like an interrogation zone. Have you ever entered someone's home and immediately felt tense? Take note of the lighting and the clutter, these are the two most arresting and stress-inducing features in a hallway.

Interior designer Autumn Pochiro, of Autumn Dawn Design, thinks good lighting is paramount ‘Adequate light is the most important thing to consider in a small hallway. Ideally, use wall sconces rather than a pendant light in a small entryway.’ Olivia firmly agrees. ‘Small hallways do need good lighting,’ she notes. ‘especially low-level lighting on a console for added interest but also practicality. Something you can quickly switch on when coming home in the dark. Put your hallways lights on a timer, great for putting off burglars but also nice to come home to a warm, soft light on.’

3. A large console table

Unless you have a grand foyer, in which a grand piano and a twinkling water feature would not look out of place, then a very large, cumbersome console table really isn’t useful in a hallway. It can be much more of a hindrance than a help, and despite offering a great surface on which to decorate, if you have a compact space, it will look out of place, get in the way, and make the entryway feel even more poky.

‘In a small space, the key is to avoid anything you have to manoeuvre around, if it disrupts the natural flow of coming and going, it simply doesn’t belong there,’ explains Sean.

‘Where the width of a hallway is tight, we use a floating shelf, ideally with a concealed drawer to hide keys and other bits that can often clutter up a hallway,’ notes Alex. Floating shelves or a slim, inconspicuous side table would work better in a small space. Relocate your console table to your living room or kitchen, where it can be enjoyed.

4. Large artwork

To make an entryway feel in keeping with the rest of the home, you may wish to display artwork on the walls, so as not to keep the entryway feeling like a strictly utilitarian space. And whilst it's a good idea to implement ideas that soften the space and make it thrill just as much as it functions, large-scale, chunky or delicate artwork simply doesn’t perform in tight quarters.

While smaller works, especially in groups and gallery walls, can be fantastic in other areas of the home, oversized canvases, chunky frames, or delicate pieces feel misplaced.

A narrow hallway calls for openness, ease and breathability. Guests should be able to exhale as they step inside, not instinctively lean away from walls, tense their shoulder,s and feel as though they’re navigating a precious corridor. Entryways are transitional by nature; they’re made for movement, for hearty greetings, for comings and goings. Art that disrupts the daily rhythm can feel intrusive rather than impactful.

I love bold, sculptural artwork, and there is very little wall left in my home not covered in artwork of some kind. However, in a confined space, it loses its presence entirely and becomes oppressive. Relocate it to where it can be fully appreciated, and instead introduce softness through texture or tone.

‘I really dislike when people hang chunky bits of art in a narrow hallway.’ Says Olivia. ‘Instead of artwork, try something like a tapestry or wall hanging instead for a similar impact but less breakages!’

5. Large and bulky rugs

A rug can ground an entryway beautifully, but in a small or narrow space, the wrong rug does far more harm than good. Dark colors, high pile textures or oversized proportions visually shrink the space and can feel instantly oppressive.

There's also the practical issue: entryways are high-traffic zones. Bulky rugs can slip and bunch, which could become a hazard. If the rug is not properly scaled to the footprint of the hallway, it adds a sense of awkwardness, either floating around, untethered, or jammed wall-to-wall.

Instead, choose a runner that leads the eye forward and creates a sense of direction. 'A good, patterned runner either on the floor or running up the stairs can lead the eye and distract from a tight space,' notes Alex. 'It makes a statement and sets the scene for the rest of the house.'

Our top picks for a small entryway

If you have a small entryway, you have likely suffered the immense frustration of living with it. You may feel it simply is too small, and there is nothing to be done about it, bar tolerate it through gritted teeth. It may be, though, that a simple swap out of one of these items brings a little more order and harmony into your life, making you feel happier at home.

'Keep it elegant, tidy, and intentional,' advises Sean. 'And always make sure there’s room to breathe.'

We rapidly bought a newly built home with zero built-in storage and moved in within six weeks of viewing it. The tiny hallway quickly became a clutter hot spot as there wasn’t space to put the usual storage options.

We bought an affordable metal shoe rack from Amazon for the entryway as a temporary measure but it was so good, we're still using it four years later. And now, it's only $22 in the Amazon Spring Sale.

To our surprise, this small entryway storage idea has turned out to be a lifesaver for this tricky space and gone from a temporary solution, to something more permanent.

Why a metal shoe storage option worked out great for us

This rack helped us solve a lack of storage in our awkward and small entryway by capitalizing on the vertical storage space on offer.

Professional organizer Ben Soreff of House 2 Home Organizing says, ‘You've hit the nail on the head. When it comes to using limited space, you must go vertical. Shoes tend to collect in entryways as do jackets and bags.’

What I had previously tried

We had a slim storage unit in our living room for shoes, pictured below, but found it meant tracking dirt and mud on carpeted floors. We could have taken shoes on and off in the small hallway, but with the stairs tempting us to sit down directly next to the slim cabinet, we were making a carpet cleaning mistake.

Ben adds, ‘Mudrooms and front halls are great because, as their title suggests, they prevent people with dirty shoes from walking directly into the house. If there is no mudroom or hall, then they track dirt, dust, or snow directly into the kitchen or living room.’

We also tried Joseph Joseph stackable shoe boxes, available on Amazon, but found them too fiddly for day-to-day use. However, these ventilated and sturdy stackable shoe boxes have turned out to be excellent for surplus, or out-of-season shoe storage in our under stairs area.

Ben adds, ‘Do a seasonal shoe swap and only keep everyday pairs in your entryway. After reviewing the frequency of use, you can store extra shoes in your closet.

'Next the structure of your small entryway shoe storage is super important to maintain an organized system. Metal shoe racks are great as they typically take up less space than wooden ones, however, shelves will be easy to use without the shoes falling through.'

Even though we have a small child, with equally small shoes, we've not had any shoes falling through the metal bars of our Amazon metal shoe rack, as they're not set apart enough to be an issue.

Professional organizer Ben adds, 'Typically, the mudroom or entryway presents clutter challenges because it is the first opportunity you have to dump your items when you arrive home. We don't want to collect coats or shoes as the goal: we want to use them.'

He advises reviewing your shoes for quantity and frequency of use. 'Since space is limited, we need to do the winter/summer swap and store off-season items in the attic or basement (or use closets in a small apartment),' Ben explains. 'If there is a garage, you can set up a shoe rack and runner. If there is no garage, set up the shoe rack and cubbies in the hall or kitchen.'

Entryways and mud rooms tend to get messy because it's easy to come home and dump belongings in this space. If everything has a home to begin with, there's less chance of clutter building.

Learn more about the five stages of clutter to help avoid mess in your home.

Entryway storage ideas

Next, learn how to organize shoes in a small space to keep your nifty storage solution in good order.

It's the gateway to your home, so keeping your entryway tidy ensures a warm welcome for both you and your guests.

From selecting smart storage to sorting by season, professional organizers reveal their six golden rules for maintaining a clutter-free entryway that’s functional and stylish.

Organizing an entryway never felt so easy thanks to these top tips and product recommendations.

1. Select smart storage

A clutter-free entryway starts with the right storage solutions. Invest in coat racks, shoe organizers, and hooks to give each item a designated space. Multifunctional furniture, like benches with hidden compartments, can also maximize storage.

Jennifer Bell, founder of Bell Home Organizing, says, 'Particularly during the winter, it's so easy for coats and shoes to quietly take over the entryway of our home. For clients that do not have an entryway hall closet, I suggest a carefully-chosen shoe rack and wall-mounted coat rack that works for your space.'

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, 'Your entryway is typically a small space, and too many items can make it feel cramped. Stick to minimal storage that takes up as little room as possible, while doing the job you need. A simple over-the-door coat rack can be a great way to maximize space, for example. This Optish Over-the-Door Coat Rack from Amazon is sturdy and has rounded edges to avoid any ripping of your coats.'

For top entryway storage tips, delve into our dedicated guide on how to hide shoe clutter in small spaces.

All prices correct at time of writing.

2. Have a landing pad

When it comes to the best entryway ideas, a 'landing pad' is essential for dropping everyday items like keys, wallets, and mail, which is why including one is one of the things people with clean entryways always do. Use a tray, small basket, or wall-mounted shelf to corral these items and keep surfaces tidy.

Bell says, 'Busy families need to get out the door quickly. Keys, wallets, mail, bills, sunglasses, school permission slips – the list goes on. So it's easy to see how clutter can quickly become a big problem in an entryway. Installing a wall-mounted organizer, like this FifthQuarter Store Key and Mail Holder from Amazon, at eye-level means you can see the items you need as you rush out of the house. For people on the go, these are a great way to keep you from forgetting important items.'

Toner also recommends a wall-mounted holder – this Dhmkfly Store 3-Slot Mail Sorter Organizer Wall Mount from Amazon. She adds, 'This pretty organizer tidily keeps your mail and keys in one place with separate compartments.'

Amanda Scott, founder of Amanda Scott Home, recommends the Wade Logan Byata Floating Wall Shelf Side Table, available from Wayfair. She explains, 'A floating shelf – especially one like this with drawers and compartments – takes up minimal room, but provides just the space you need to store keys, sunglasses and other daily essentials.'

3. Keep it minimal

Common entryway organizing mistakes. include using oversized furniture or excessive decoration.

Toner says, 'Bulky furniture in your entryway can block movement and make an already small space feel even smaller, detracting from the inviting entryway feel you want. Instead, choose slim, multipurpose pieces like a narrow console table or slim storage bench.'

When it comes to adding some life into your entryway, remember that minimalism doesn’t mean the space has to be boring. Personalize it with one or two meaningful pieces, like a small plant or a family photo. These touches add warmth without overwhelming the area. A pair of Eucalyptus Faux Plants in Ceramic Pots from Wayfair will nicely complement most styles.

4. Sort by season

Rotating seasonal items is crucial for managing clutter. Store out-of-season shoes, coats, and accessories elsewhere to make room for current necessities.

Ben Soreff, professional organizer at House to Home Organizing, says, 'Unless you review what's there regularly, your entryway can quickly turn into a dusty, cluttered museum.

'Our aim isn't to collect coats, but to use them. So review your coats and shoes regularly, and store off-season items in a separate closet.'

Scott adds, 'Your mid-seasons swap is also a great time to return library books, recycle magazines and junk mail, and anything else you don’t need to keep. Keep a donation bag or recycling bin handy to easily purge old, unused items.'

Learn more about organizing your paperwork to reduce paper clutter in your entryway.

5. Consider your pets

If you have pets, set up a dedicated area in your entryway for leashes, collars, and cleaning supplies. This keeps everything accessible while maintaining order.

Bell says, 'Though often overlooked when it comes to organizing, your furry friends also need have a lot of items that can cause clutter in your entryway. Dog leashes, harnesses, waste bags, and treats all take up a lot of space. When they do not have a home, they often end up on the floor or taking up a tabletop creating a mess and visual clutter.

'I suggest installing simple wall hooks near the door for your dog leashes, harnesses, and dog waste bags. This way when you need to take your dog out of a walk, you can head to the door and quickly put on his leash and harness.'

Toner recommends this Homode Store Wall-Mounted Entryway Shelf with Hooks from Amazon, adding, 'It both looks good, and offers added functionality.' You can also use it as a mudroom organizing staple for pet owners.

If you have pets, you'll want to check out these things people with nice-smelling entryways always do.

6. Make it user-friendly

An entryway should cater to everyone in the household, ensuring that each person’s items have a designated spot. For kids, install low hooks for coats and backpacks and place a bench or small stool for putting on shoes. Use labeled bins or baskets for sports gear, school supplies, or other daily necessities.

Extend the concept to other family members by creating sections for work bags, keys, and everyday essentials. Keeping each person’s belongings in the same place minimizes confusion and streamlines busy mornings.

Bell says, 'I love storage benches, particularly for families with children, such as the Walker Edison Modern Farmhouse Entryway Shoe Storage Bench from Amazon. Bins or baskets are an easy place to toss kids shoes, and benches offer a comfy spot for little ones to sit while getting ready. I suggest encouraging independence by having a storage bin for each child and labelling each with their name.'

Scott recommends Vonne Medium Square Decorative Baskets from Crate&Barrel, adding, 'These look good and are a good size too. Remember that since not all shoes should be in your entryway, you only need baskets that can fit two or three pairs of shoes.'

So there you have it – six golden rules for a clutter-free entryway. By following these, your entryway will remain clutter-free, functional, and welcoming. A little planning and regular upkeep go a long way in transforming this high-traffic space into an organized haven.

Next, check out these entryway organizing mistakes affecting the welcome to your home.

The iconic Maneki Neko, or beckoning cat, is a common good fortune figurine from Japan, that you may have spotted loyally sat in windows, on cash registers, and enshrined in temples.

But, what you might not know is that you can actually harness this ornament's ability to welcome prosperity into your own home by placing it to face your front door.

Here, our Feng Shui practitioner, who has recently been travelling in Japan, explains the origin of this mystical cat, and how you can use one in to create good Feng Shui in your home.

What is the Maneki Neko?

Preetibala Sharma, Feng Shui consultant at Feng Shui for Life and lifestylebypreetibala has been a Feng Shui practitioner for more than 25 years, and had noticed this "lucky cat" in many Asian stores, restaurants and homes. Her recent trip to Japan highlighted the significance of this item for her.

'Even though I am a dog person, I did find this "beckoning cat" very fascinating, especially since I was it everywhere I turned in Japan,' Preetibala says.

After beginning to delve a little deeper, Preetibala found that the origin of the Maneki Neko, believed to beckon good luck and fortune, boasts a rich cultural history, shrouded in the mists of time.

She explains, 'The tale of the Maneki Neko unfolds sometime in the 16th century, within the serene grounds of the Gotokuji Temple, just outside of Tokyo.'

As the story goes, although versions vary, a lone traveler (some say a priest) stumbled upon a beckoning cat, with its paw raised in an inviting gesture.

'Intrigued, the man follows the cat,' continues Preetibala. 'Moments later, a bolt of lightning strikes the very spot he was standing just a few seconds ago.'

Grateful to the cat for saving his life, the man became convinced that the cat was lucky and divine, and the Maneki Neko we know and recognize today was born, associated with good fortune from then all the way up until modern day.

As Preetibala points out, there are different kinds of Maneki Neko, raising either their right or left paws, which have different meanings and powers when using Feng Shui in the year of the Wood Snake.

'The myth says that when the cat has its right paw up, it will bring good fortune or money,' she says. 'When the left paw is raised, it will attract more people or customers. This is why you'll often see a Maneki Neko at the entrance of a restaurant or retail shop with its left paw raised, and with its right paw raised in homes.'

Where to place a Meneki Neko to maximize positive energy

The most common way to use a Maneki Neko at home is for entryway Feng Shui, placed by the entrance of your home, facing your front door to welcome in good fortune, prosperity and happiness into your life, says Preetibala. 'This is where it can see people come and go, which makes the cat a happy cat, and even more lucky.'

Other than that, you might want to use one for office Feng Shui and desk Feng Shui, to 'enhance success and knowledge,' she advises.

Where you place the cat matters, too. 'A few things to consider when you place the lucky cat is to always have it in an elevated position,' says Preetibala. Additionally, 'The cat likes to be social, with people around it. Hence, do not place it inside a closet or a room which has no activity.

'Also, don't forget to pet it once in a while because yes, the cat loves that too! And yes, I did buy one tiny lucky cat for my home, and also gave my children one as well!'

All prices correct at time of publication.

Do you know about Feng Shui energy mapping? Our Feng Shui consultant, Suzanne Roynon, gave it a go, to create a home that 'supports every aspect of life.'

When it comes to decorating with paint, entryways are often limited to a palette of light neutrals in an attempt to make these usually small and light-limited spaces feel brighter and larger. But going against the grain and embracing a bold palette with color drenching is one of the best design decisions you can make.

'Color-drenching an entryway sets the stylistic tone of the home,' explains interior designer Ryan Kopet of Miles and Kirk Design. 'This technique works very well in smaller spaces without much architectural significance.'

And so, if you're looking for some inspiration for your own entryway color ideas, read on. We've rounded up five of our favorite color-drenched entryways that make the most of this overlooked space – from mid-tone blue paints to uplifting yellow.

1. Wishing Well by Portola Paints

If your aim is to create a bold and playful-looking entryway, take inspiration from this space color-drenched in a bold green paint – Portola Paints' Wishing Well. Not only does this entryway make a statement, but green is known to be a calming color, making it a fitting choice for the entrance to the home.

'This particular paint color was chosen because the clients had velvet armchairs in that similar shade in an adjoining room, and we wanted to bring that boldness into this space to both tie the rooms together and make a statement when you first walk in,' explain interior designers Lisa Nakamura and Celestin McGlynn of California-based Spec + Sage.

2. Sudbury Yellow by Farrow & Ball

No color is as cheerful as yellow, so why not bring this uplifting shade to the entrance of your home? 'Sudbury Yellow is a buttery yellow which pairs well with cream colors for a charming but fresh look,' explains Patrick O'Donnell, brand ambassador at Farrow & Ball.

Here, this mid-tone yellow paint is used liberally throughout the hallway, including the walls, woodwork, and ceiling. The result is a cohesive space free from harsh contrasts which helps the narrow space appear more roomy.

3. Selvedge by Farrow & Ball

Farrow & Ball's Selvedge is another paint color that works wonderfully color-drenched in entryways. 'Selvedge is a laid-back blue, less gray than our popular De Nimes,' explains Patrick O'Donnell.

While entryways can often be some of the most overlooked rooms in the home, this blue entryway proves that there's just as much reason to embrace a bold take on color. While neutral paints which are often used in these light-lacking spaces can fail to add interest, this blue, cohesive color scheme is bound to spark joy and intrigue the minute guests enter the home.

4. Oasis Blue by Benjamin Moore

'Benjamin Moore’s Oasis Blue was used in this grand entrance,' shares Denver-based interior designer Nadia Watts. 'Using a similar colored wall covering on the ceiling, it brings the entire space together making it feel grounded and enveloped as you walk in the home.'

Showcasing a less traditional and more experimental approach to color-drenching – incorporating wallpaper into your scheme in a similar hue to your paintwork adds more interest, a great way to make a statement with maximalist decor ideas.

5. Cambrian Blue by Annie Sloan

'This hallway in a 1930s house has been painted in my Satin Paint in Cambrian Blue,' says paint and color expert Annie Sloan. 'The color was used on the walls, door, banisters, and woodwork to give a beautiful cohesive look to the space.'

'Cambrian Blue is a mid-tone blue like dark denim and I chose it because, like dark denim, this perennially cool and hard-working shade will go with everything. Here, it allows the wonderful black and white tiles to sing whilst showcasing the beautiful staircase,' explains Annie.

There's a good reason why the color-drenching trend has seen plenty of appeal in entryways. While this bold paint trend, especially when carried out with dark and colorful paint colors, can create a statement look that may be too much in main living spaces such as kitchens or living rooms, the small proportions of entryways can take this playful trend. As well as giving the entrance to your home design interest, color drenching can also make the space feel a lot more cohesive with fewer visual breaks.

While color-drenching your entryway is one of the most stylish ways to decorate with paint, there are a whole host of other entryway trends to explore, helping add design appeal to this hardworking space.

The mudroom all too often becomes a catch-all for rainboots, umbrellas, and pet accessories – however, this necessary space can be more than a purely functional area. Considered design can take a mudroom up a notch, and we are noticing more and more trends are focused on this small, often unassuming space.

So we've got insight from experts on the mudroom trends to follow in 2025, from colors and patterns to materials and layouts that will elevate your space beyond its essentials. Here you will find design approved, easy-to-replicate mudroom ideas, that both look beautiful and work for all the wear and tear they face.

1. Incorporate a dog bath for a chic and easy clean up

As the name suggests, mudrooms encourage the coming and going of pets that can often be covered in mud and water, neither of which you want traipsing through your home. Why not make life easier and incorporate a dog bath or shower into the area? It ensures that your pup is cleaned before entering any other part of the home (hello, pet-friendly home), and can look surprisingly chic.

'Utility rooms and mudrooms are about good use, and so the trend for incorporating a dog shower station into the room is one that keeps on going,' says Ca' Pitera's head of creative, Grazzie Wilson. 'This has to be one of the best I’ve seen though and a perfect example of how to do utility rooms in a sleek, chic modern context. Our Fondant Ceramic tiles look so smart, rising to the dog shower challenge, and making the room feel loftier at the same time by stacking them vertically.'

2. Don't be afraid to soften the space with wood

Wood might not be the first material you consider for your mudroom floor since it's porous; however, a wood-effect tile on the floor, or a classic, unpainted wood cabinet lends to a natural, modern rustic-inspired feel.

'Wood does work in a mudroom, let me just say, but if you want the wooden look but with the reassurance of it withstanding water, wear and tear, then a porcelain wood-effect tile might be just the ticket,' Grazzie says. 'Mixed in with Shaker-style cabinetry and wooden wall paneling, it’s a happy blend of all the tones and finishes of a classically elegant interior that’ll last a lifetime.'

3. Elevate a mudroom with marble

Not just a kitchen countertop go-to, decorating with marble is decidedly on-trend as a mudroom backsplash, lending its luxurious appeal to this very functional part of the home.

'Function and form can coexist in perfect harmony, and this marble-walled utility room is the ultimate proof,' says Grazzie. 'Just as fashion advice tells us to not save cashmere for best but to enjoy it every day, the same applies to interiors with marble. Carrara marble might be one of life’s luxuries but it can absolutely form part of your day-to-day, just as the brick tile does in this home’s utility, sprinkling the sink and laundry section of the room with marble gold dust.'

4. Layer plenty of texture

When it comes to tile trends, textured tiles are always a win, and Grazzie says that mosaic ones are particularly popular – if your mudroom leans white or neutral, this is a fantastic way to incorporate visual interest.

'For when you want to introduce visual texture to a room, go for a micro matchstick mosaic tile and you’ll have layers of texture all in one,' she says. 'In this modern utility room, I think it’s really clever how they’ve reflected the texture of their Belfast sink with their tile choice helping to tie the room together subtly but effectively. And on a final practical note, these are porcelain too making them a complete breeze to live a long and happy life with.'

5. Embrace the trend for color drenching

A huge factor in designing a mudroom is of course color, and leading paint experts say that going bold is the move this year.

'If you have a small and windowless mudroom, you can go really dark here,' says Patrick O'Donnell, Brand Ambassador at Farrow & Ball. 'A deeply dark blue such as our petrol-hued Hague Blue or ambient Green Smoke could feel super smart, just keep in mind your artificial lighting. If going dark feels wildly terrifying, opt for the warmth of a cheery, but not overly bright, yellow like Sudbury Yellow.'

Patrick also recommends a strong finish, to ensure the durability of any paint color. 'For truly hard-working mudrooms, you need something with integrity that will tolerate the rigors of a flying rainboot and soggy outdoor coat, so look no further than Modern Emulsion for your walls and Modern Eggshell for your cabinetry and trim,' he says. 'These finishes are thoroughly washable and wipeable, so no matter what you throw at it (literally) a warm, soapy cloth will eliminate the ill deeds.'

Whether you prefer a muted space or bright colors and bold textures, there are plenty of ways to make your mudroom more trend-forward while keeping it functional. With a mix of patterns and materials, a mudroom can be transformed from a makeshift closet or a laundry room to one of the most polished and stylish parts of the home.

Knowing what makes an entryway look cheap will prove invaluable when you are designing your interior. It will help you to avoid making these common mistakes and ensure your entryway looks smart and sophisticated.

Even if you are decorating on a budget, there is no reason for the entryway of your home to look cheap. In many cases, the things that lead to a house looking cheap aren't even a reflection of wealth or affluence – there are many purse-friendly ways to make a home look expensive.

What is making your entryway look cheap?

Filling the entrance with matching flatpacks; piles of clutter and disproportionate furniture are all factors that can make a house look cheap. Thankfully, they are easy to avoid and there are lots of other affordable alternatives that will help your scheme to shine.

Below we share what makes an entryway look cheap, as well as expert advice on how to avoid it.

1. Hide clutter with an organized storage solution

Your entryway can often become an overlooked space where clutter accumulates. Cluttered homes are a source of contention for many households. After all, there is always something better to do than tidy. But do it once, and I promise you will never want to see a chaotic hall or entrance ever again.

My favorite way to keep clutter at bay is to include a few extra entryway storage ideas. With some clever planning and budgeting, you can find furniture that fits narrower or more challenging spaces and will bring about a huge difference to your home. No more cluttering up the entryway with rows of shoes, or searching for somewhere to hang a coat.

If budget allows, I suggest going for something bespoke rather than off the shelf. When commissioning a piece of bespoke joinery, consideration is needed to ensure that the cabinet style complements the room’s aesthetics as well as being of the correct scale and proportion, says cabinetmaker Ed Keyser.

‘Built-in cabinetry is not only an investment and will hopefully add value to your property but is also personal to you as you will be living with it every day. Although more expensive than off-the-peg solutions, commissioning bespoke storage is guaranteed to maximize every inch,' says Keyser.

One factor to bear in mind when considering bespoke storage over off-the-shelf is the extended lead time, which can be several weeks from inquiry to installation.

2. Replace lacklustre lighting with a layered scheme

More often than not, poor lighting will make the entrance to your home look cheap and feel glum. Good entryway lighting ideas can transform a room. It can make a small entryway seem larger, or a vast entrance more intimate, help create mood, enhance features, and define zones. Such is its versatility, that it is worth planning the lighting at the beginning of a project.

Sourcing entryway lighting that shares a design dialogue with your furniture, storage, flooring, and color scheme will help your space feel sophisticated and considered. Look for light fittings in similar shapes, thicknesses, and, of course, coordinating finishes.

Don't let the stairway become an afterthought either. Halls and staircases are the spine of the home as they link all the rooms together, so layers of light are very important here. Think about combining wall lights, lamps and lanterns with discreet miniature architectural lights for a variety of visual effects.

3. Turn bare walls into works of art

The entryway is a room of its own and should be treated as such with a bold design that will wow. As the entrance is where guests are welcomed, it should say something about you and set the mood for the rest of the house.

‘It’s easy to forget about hallways as they are thoroughfares rather than places we spend time,’ says Sarah Peake, founder of Studio Peake. ‘It’s therefore crucial to be bold with pattern and color – something to lift the spirits when you walk in.’

Art is incredibly useful in this kind of setting as it can be used tactically to either make a powerful statement, add personality, or introduce beautiful entryway wall ideas and color.

My favorite way to introduce art into an entrance is with a gallery wall. A successful gallery wall is always united by one common thread. It might be an accent color that runs throughout, a dominant frame style, the style of photo or picture featured, or a regularity in size or shape. However, that doesn't mean that contrasting styles can't be introduced – use the contrast as an accent rather than having equal amounts of different styles.

4. Put the focus on flooring that lasts

It is important to choose hallway flooring that will stand the test of time – not just one with good looks but one with durability, too.

Stained floors, scuff marks, and obvious signs of wear and tear can really let your home down. An entryway is a busy, high-traffic area, so choosing flooring that is both durable and efficient, as well as stylish and rich with character, will help your floor stand the test of time. An incredibly versatile option, tiles create a smooth, hard-wearing surface that can also act as a canvas for a beautiful, decorative design.

‘An entryway or hallway really sets the scene for a home, creating a welcoming impression and providing a clue as to what might lie beyond,’ explains Colin Roby-Welford, Fired Earth’s creative director. ‘Patterned tiles are a perfect choice for the flooring, and they’re forgiving too, as they won’t show every hint of a footprint.’

5. Introduce warm, textural elements that sing

Many homeowners tend to leave their halls and entryways bare and untouched. However, this 'unloved' space is a prime spot for layering cozy textures through soft furnishings.

Texture in interior design is vital and is, quite literally, woven into the fabric of a designer's vocabulary and practice. Creating texture is not simply about how decor and soft furnishings feel; it's also about 'visual texture' – using different materials to add interest and breathe life into a room.

The best way to add texture to an entrance is with a rug. An entryway without a rug is like a window without curtains. It can be done, but it’s not pretty, or practical, not least because most hallways today are fitted with hard flooring.

‘A rug adds personality, impact, and warmth to an entryway,’ says designer, Penny Morrison. ‘A patterned rug, for example, can bring another layer of color to the space – I prefer one that emphasizes warmer tones to create an inviting place to welcome guests inside.'

However, a rug is not the only option. You can introduce texture with just about anything – a vase, foliage, artwork. It all makes a difference to the overall look and feel.

6. Invest in a seating area for guests

If there is one thing I never budge on, it is the reasoning that every entrance should have a seating area for guests to put on and take off their shoes.

‘To create a welcoming hall, think about the impact the space will have when you first walk in,’ says luxury home accessories maker, Birdie Fortescue. Take inspiration from this space by designing a cozy spot to sit, layered with piles of cushions for warmth and beauty. ‘If you have space, a rug with a practical texture is a great addition, particularly underneath a well-proportioned hall table,’ says Birdie.

The last thing you want is for your guests to lean on walls, or balance awkwardly on one leg trying to tie their shoelaces or buckle a strap.

A well-organized entryway sets the tone for the rest of the home. If you walk into clutter and mess, there is a good chance the rest of your home will end up the same.

No matter how much we tidy and edit, however, there are some things that always make an entryway look cluttered. Luckily, they are usually easy to fix, making maintaining a good first impression a little easier.

I spoke to professional home organizers for their decluttering tips and they suggested tacking these six key spots.

6 things that always make an entryway look cluttered

A lot of clutter in this space stems from common entryway storage mistakes – usually not having enough, or using the wrong types. Here’s how the pros fix them for a functional space. Having a cluttered entryway is one of the household messes that stress professional organizers, but can be tackled in six ways.

1. Open coat racks

Organizing coats can be tricky given how bulky they can be. They need to be in an easy-to-reach spot, but they should also be tucked out of sight to reduce visual over-stimulation and mess.

Tina Montemayor, interior designer and owner of Tina Montemayor Design in Oakland, CA says, ‘Coat racks and wall hooks should only be used to set wet weather items to dry off and then stored away or as easy storage for your guests. If you have the habit of leaving coats on it, it just piles up and gets out of control.’

2. Key bowls

One thing the most organized people have in their entryways is somewhere to store keys so they do not get lost. Tina Montemayor, interior designer warns against using open key bowls for this, however.

She explains, ‘A decorative bowl or catch-all for keys and mail can easily get out of control so I like to opt for closed key storage, like this Faraday signal blocker from Amazon in a handsome leather that doubles as an anti-theft device from Amazon.’

3. Too much decor

We all want to make an entryway look more luxurious, but there is such a thing as going too far with your entryway ideas.

Tina Montemayor, interior designer, continues, ‘One key visual that feels special, whether a painting or a photo of your favorite vacation (better yet a close up/abstract of something from it), feels more refined than a gallery wall or collage of artwork. It just gives your eyes time to rest and settle in before making your way to the rest of the house, helping you to design a home that is soft on the senses.’

Cutting back on decor and artwork can make the space feel calmer, too, so your entryway feels less overstimulating.

4. Items you don’t use

The first entryway decluttering rule is to clear out all the items you do not use – and for good reason. It instantly helps to make an entryway look less cluttered.

Barbara Brock, professional organizer and stager, founder of Barbara Brock Inc., a professional organizing and home staging company says, ‘By organizing the entryway which includes the coat closet, editing out items which are old, not used, or in need of repair, you free up space for larger coats and boots.

‘Now is the time to look hard at your entryway closet and prioritize what you like to wear in terms of outerwear and accessories, what you need, and what you haven’t worn in ages. Someone else can use clothing that you don’t need. So weed, weed, weed your closet.’

5. Unsorted mail

Mail piling up in an entryway is a common cause of visual clutter, which is why removing it regularly is one of the things people with clean entryways always do. To try and limit this, find smart ways to organize paperwork at home, such as having a cubby system to organize mail among household members.

It is also a good idea to go paperless wherever you can. A lot of banks, for instance, will offer paperless statements to reduce how much physical junk you have to sift through each month.

6. An abundance of bags

We are all for collecting and storing tote bags for reuse to limit waste, but there is such a thing as too many.

Barbara Brock, professional organizer says, 'Totes, fabric bags, or paper bags that have been collected throughout the seasons to carry items seem to collect in multitudes and often are just tossed in the entryway closet. By sorting through them, I can determine the different sizes and materials and eliminate what I don’t need.’

Dealing with these clutter magnets in an entryway will only do so much insofar as stopping mess, however, reminds Tina Montemayor, interior designer.

She says, ‘Before you go out and purchase a new storage bench or coat rack, it’s important to consider this one thing to set you up for success: changing habits. If you adopt the one-touch rule, for instance, your entryway will take on an entirely new experience.

'In essence, it’s putting things such as coats, shoes, mail, keys, and bags away in their permanent location rather than setting them down so you don’t have to touch or think about them again until your next need arises.'

Entryways are notoriously tricky to furnish and decorate. They are the first thing you and your guests see when you walk through the front door, setting the tone for the rest of your home. They're also the place that you speedily rush out of, so they need to be neat and orderly with no obstacles blocking your exit.

Entryways are also often a transitional space between the other rooms in your home, so you want your decor to either blend in with or contrast against its adjoining areas.

There's a lot to think about here, so we're making it easy for you. We've chatted to interior designers to find out what they avoid using in an entryway. We must admit, some of their ideas surprised us, but they do make complete sense. Here is what to avoid...

1. A rug that's either chunky or slippery

Entryways are very often used for racing out the door, and you don't want anything to get in the way and slow you down. Many of the designers we spoke to state that different kinds of rugs are a no-go for entryways, and we can see why.

'I would never put a chunky rug in an entryway. They can be a trip hazard,' says Shani Core of Shani Core Interiors. 'If I use a less chunky rug in an entryway, I always use a rug pad to ensure it doesn't slip around. They're an absolute must for any high-traffic area.'

Lauren Gilberthorpe of Lauren Gilberthorpe Interiors, however, says that jute and sisal rugs should never be used in an entryway. 'These natural fibers may be popular, but they’re prone to staining, especially in an area where muddy shoes are common. Instead, choose a durable fabric rug that can withstand wear and tear. Look for options that are easy to clean and come in darker colors or patterns to disguise any marks,' she says.

2. Open shelving

Open shelving is great for displaying treasured objects, but can quickly make entryways look cluttered, so closed entryway storage is best.

'Open entryway shelves can quickly become cluttered with shoes, bags, and other items, detracting from the entryway’s appeal,' says Lauren. 'Instead, consider closed storage solutions that keep everything out of sight while still providing easy access. This helps maintain a clean and organized look.'

Shani has one storage ingredient that she loves using in most entryways. 'If the space allows, I like to use a console table with drawers and tuck away baskets underneath for storage,' she says. 'Isn’t it more welcoming to greet visitors with a pretty color, a designated place for purses and gifts, and a spot for keys and mail?!'

3. A display of coats and shoes

It may seem like a good idea to install wall hooks by your front door to keep your coats within easy reach. But, chances are, this will end up looking more like a mountain of jackets than the stylized one-or-two coats you'd pictured.

'While practicality is important, certain elements can work against the overall aesthetic. For instance, an abundance of coat hooks, though functional, tends to create unnecessary clutter,' says Lucy Derbyshire, a founder at Studio QD. 'If space allows, concealed coat storage is a much better option, keeping the area tidy and giving the entryway a clean, spacious feel – perfect for a positive first impression.'

An entryway wardrobe is perfect for storing the whole family's coats and shoes. Once you've bought one of these you soon won't know how you ever lived without it.

4. Umbrella stands

In a similar vein to the wall hooks, designers would advise against including an umbrella stand in your entryway design.

'For me, umbrella stands are a big no. They can easily become cluttered and unsightly,' says Lauren. 'Instead, consider a stylish wall-mounted solution for hanging umbrellas, or a designated spot near the door that keeps them out of sight yet accessible, such as a decorative hook.'

Plus, your umbrella stand would very likely soon become an umbrella, hat, scarf, gloves and dog lead stand, and no one wants to see a mound of 'stuff' as soon as you walk through the front door.

5. A loose door mat

Designers suggest that an instant way to give your home a less high-end and less chic look, is to use a loose doormat in your entryway.

'Always avoid using a loose door mat that shifts around. Instead, choose an integrated mat that sits flush with your flooring,' says Lucy. 'This approach not only offers a more polished appearance, but also covers a larger surface area, making it more practical for everyday use while maintaining a seamless integration.'

Head of solved, Punteha van Terheyden has a built-in jute doormat in her small entryway. She says, 'This covers half the floor space in the area and has proven to be extremely durable and much more convenient than a loose one that slides around. Jute is easy to clean, too and I recommend using a brush with soft natural bristles, available at Amazon, to loosen dried dirt before vacuuming and cleaning.'

6. Excessive decor

Try not to overload your entryway to keep a clear and clutter-free gangway. 'While it’s tempting to fill the entryway with decorative items, too many can make the space feel cramped,' says Lauren. 'Keep it simple with one or two statement pieces, like a striking piece of artwork or a unique sculpture, to create visual interest without overwhelming the space.'

That said, your entryway needn't be boring. We love a statement wallpaper or one look-at-me piece of artwork in an entryway – a design that brings you joy is the best thing to come home to every day.

Your entryway needs to be the perfect balance of working hard and looking good, and knowing what to keep out of this (often small) space can be as useful as it is to know what to have in it. You want to keep it to the essentials and ensure whatever you do bring into your entryways has it's purpose.

If floor space is a sticking point in yours, learn more about organizing a small entryway.

Your entryway sets the tone for your home, so it’s worth keeping it organized and clutter-free.

Thankfully, our professional organizers are here to reveal eight things to avoid keeping in your entryway, from too many shoes to sweaty sports gear. Too much stuff in this space can quickly turn your entryway into a cluttered dumping ground.

Armed with our ultimate decluttering tips, you'll soon be enjoying the serenity of a peaceful, welcoming and functional entrance to your home.

1. Coats for all seasons

Having coats for every season in your entryway creates unnecessary clutter. Before long, coat stands are toppling, its a squeeze to get through, or closets have lost their functionality and ease of use.

Ben Soreff, professional organizer at House to Home Organizing, says, 'Where there are coat hooks, people will hang coats. The problem? Unless you review what's there regularly, your entryway can quickly turn into a museum – and a cluttered one, at that.

'Our aim isn't to collect coats, but to use them. So review yours regularly, and store off-season coats or jackets in a separate closet.'

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, agrees. She says, 'Once you've slimmed down your entryway coats to the current season's essentials, a simple over-the-door coat rack is a great way to maximize space. This Optish Over-the-Door Coat Rack from Amazon is sturdy and has rounded edges to avoid any ripping of your coats.'

2. Hall trees

Hall trees are a popular entryway staple, with hooks for coats and bags, plus shelves for other items. However, without a sorting system, they can quickly become a mess magnet.

Amy Bloomer, professional organizer and founder of Let Your Space Bloom, says, 'While these are helpful in theory, I find that 99.9% of the time they just become a dumping ground for anything and everything when you walk through the door.

'It’s critical to build organizational systems that create a place for everything, so that everything has its place. This helps to drive out items that don’t belong and reduces clutter overall.'

3. Too many shoes

An entryway overflowing with shoes can look messy and make it difficult to find what you need.

Soreff says, 'As with coats, shoes can swiftly multiply to the point you're drowning in them – and too many are collecting dust. Instead, focus on frequency or use, and store any off-season or sport-specific shoes elsewhere, such as a closet, garage or mudroom.'

Toner says, 'Think also about how to minimize mud. Whether in a separate mudroom, just outside the front door, or in the entryway itself, a boot tray with raised edges – such as this SUPENUIN Heavy Duty Boot Tray from Amazon – can really help to keep things clean and tidy.'

For more top tips, check out our guide on how to hide shoe clutter in small spaces.

4. Bulky furniture

Bulky furniture clogs up entryways and can lead to a claustrophobic feel.

Toner says, 'Bulky furniture in your entryway can block movement and make an already small space feel even smaller, detracting from the inviting entryway feel you want. Instead, choose slim, multipurpose pieces like a narrow console table or slim storage bench.'

5. Excessive paper

Stacks of mail and paper create clutter, but so often its our entryway where letters, magazine, brochures and flyers gather.

Bloomer says, 'Paper clutter is incredibly invasive and builds up very quickly. I encourage my clients to deposit all catalogs and junk mail into a recycling bin before entering their homes. Place magazines where you will read them – whether by the couch or on a bedside table – and commit to recycling them immediately after reading them. If there is any information that you want to save, take a picture of it and move on.'

Toner recommends a wall-mounted holder such as this Dhmkfly Store 3-Slot Mail Sorter Organizer Wall Mount from Amazon, adding, 'This pretty organizer tidily keeps your mail and keys in one place with separate compartments.'

For more tips on how to organize papers and magazines, check out these living room organization mistakes.

6. Packaging

Don’t let boxes, bags, or packaging linger in the entryway. Move these to recycling or a designated storage spot immediately to keep your space tidy.

Bloomer says, 'With the increase in home-delivery, cardboard can quickly overtake your entryway. It's really worth stripping excess cardboard packaging from toilet paper, medication and nonperishable food items as they come in. Once you recycle all that cardboard, you’ll realize you have much more space to live in!'

7. Unnecessary decor

Even with the best entryway ideas, too much decor in a small entryway can make the area look cramped. Stick to one or two functional or seasonal pieces to keep the space open and welcoming.

Toner says, 'Your entryway is typically a small space, and too many items can make it feel cramped. Instead, use vertical wall space for decor and limit items to a few meaningful pieces. This Homode Store Wall-Mounted Entryway Shelf with Hooks from Amazon both looks good, and offers added functionality.'

8. Sports gear

Sports equipment can be bulky and messy in an entryway.

Toner says, 'Sports clothing and equipment can quickly clutter your entryway and bring in dirt. Look instead to store sports gear in the garage, mudroom or designated closet.

'This Kinghouse Sports Equipment Organizer from Amazon neatly organizes sports items in one space, ideal for garages or mudrooms.'

So there you have it – eight things you should never store in your entryway. Avoiding these items in your entryway will keep your home’s first impression streamlined and inviting.

Next, check out these 5 entryway organizing mistakes affecting the welcome to your home.

I have said it before, and I will say it again, we need to pay more attention to our entryways. It does seem that we are finally acknowledging this space as a proper room in our homes and treating it as such, but because it's such a transitional space, it does still tend to get overlooked in terms of decor. Let's change that please.

Entryways also tend to be on the small side too, or the awkwardly shaped side. Adding in lots of furniture and decor often isn't an option, hence why you're entryway color combinations are so key. Color and paint are one of the few ways to create impact in this space.

But what are the best pairings to try in this key area? You want to make a statement, but you also don't want it to feel jarring with the rest of your home. We asked designers and color experts for their top tips on choosing entryway colors, and what shades work best together.

1. Neutrals and colors from adjoining rooms

Let's start with the key entryway color pairing, the colors going on in the adjoining rooms. This is key to creating a cohesive color scheme that runs through out your entire home. When deciding on the colors for your entryway, also look to how they will pair with other colors you get a glimpse of from the space.

As designer Bethany Adams explains, 'Entryways set the tone for the rest of the home. Depending on whether or not they are contiguous with other spaces or set apart as jewel boxes really determines the colors I use. More often than not, entryways are part of a larger space that connects every other room in the home and as such, I'll keep the walls neutral – Benjamin Moore's White Dove OC-17 is a favorite – and add excitement with a patterned floor and artwork that reflects the color palette of the rooms just beyond.'

'If I'm lucky enough to have a jewel box space, I will go bolder, but I generally do still use neutrals like Farrow and Ball's Down Pipe paired with this antique Zuber wallcovering. It's so much easier to update your entryway with seasonal decor and florals, new accessories, and accents when the walls are neutral, and it also invites guests to quickly pass through into the more exciting spaces in your home.'

2. White and warm earthy tones

Earthy tones are a nice way to stick with a neutral scheme, but go slightly darker and richer. They are a huge color trend for 2024, but totally timeless too. The key to keeping them fresh and not becoming too muddy is to pair them with a crisp white – the perfect entryway color combination.

Murude Katipoglu, Founder of MURUDÉ comments: 'As a studio, we like our entrances to be light, serene, and welcoming spaces. We find that a neutral color palette is a great way to achieve this calm aesthetic, as it allows architectural details, artwork, and decorative light fittings to become focal points.'

'One of our favorite shades is Edward Bulmer’s Silver White, which has a hint of light grey and works well when layered with other off-whites and earthy tones. We paint the woodwork in Edward Bulmer's Whiting, which complements the wall color and the wood tones used for the flooring. Ceilings are painted in Farrow and Ball's Pointing, our go-to ceiling color, as it has just the right tone of off-white with warm undertones, neither too white nor too yellow.'

3. Light blue and cream

Decorating with blue can be like using a neutral, especially if you use it in its lightest form like in this entryway designer by Victoria Holly. Layer it up with other neutrals, and ground it with brown tones and you get a gorgeous balanced entryway color combination that feels fresh and light but classic too.

Victoria explains the key to this space: 'With a smaller entryway, make an impact with textures. We added a horn mirror in here to add design through a new and unexpected material and swapped out the entryway door for a split door with textured glass windows. We also utilized paint where it mattered - on doors and molding. And of course a great runner rug.'

4. White and dark green

A lot of the best entryway color combinations involve white, understandably because these spaces can often lack natural light. It's interior design 101 that white can make small spaces feel bigger and brighter, but that doesn't mean you always have to play it safe by using just white, choosing darker hues, and pairing them with white to give a lift works so well in entryways.

Dark green and white is a combo that came up a lot, and as Emily Kantz, Color Marketing Manager at Sherwin Williams explains, 'If homeowners are looking to add some color into their all-white entryways, I recommend the combination of white and a deep green like Basque Green SW 6426 to create an effortless yet bold vibe –combine with wooden accents to really bring the look together!'

Tash Bradley, Lick's Director of Interior Design & Colour Psychologist, agrees, "If you’re going for a sophisticated feel in your hallway but want it to also feel welcoming, try a dusky and earthy olive. Green has an energizing quality that will make your space feel restorative and uplifting. Pair it with natural wooden tones and black detailing in your stairs for an elegant look.'

'And if you’re lacking space and natural light in your hallway, did you know that both color drenching and painting your space in a darker color can actually make your space feel larger by creating a sense of depth?' she adds.

5. Blue and red

If you want a color combination with some high contrast, so many designers are pairing red with blue. It sounds bold but it really works. The key is to avoid a 50/50 split, you want one color to dominate and another to be the accent. In this entryway designed by Studio Vero blue is perfectly balanced with pops of different red tones and white is used to give the scheme a lift. 'Intense colors work well in a small space and are great to hang art on, really helping it pop,' explains partner at the studio Venetia Rudebeck.

'I also love pairing unexpected colors for entryways to give the space some personality like blue and red!' adds Emily Kantz. 'A great way to achieve this is by painting your door in the brightest of the two and the walls in the darker color you’ve chosen. I recommend using a dark blue, like Naval SW 6244 and gentle red, like Coral Clay SW 9005.'

6. Black and White

Black and white is the perfect color combination for a really timeless entryway. 'One of my favorite fool-proof color combinations for an elegant but never boring entryway is black and white,' says Emily Kantz. 'The classic contrast between the two turns the space from bland to bold by just adding a true-black paint, such as Tricorn Black SW 6258, on trims or staircases.'

In this entryway, designer Bethany Adams has softened the classic scheme, going for a soft black on the walls and a crisp white on the ceiling but then an off-white mural to tone down the contrast. A purely black and white scheme does risk looking stark, and even cold, particularly in an entryway that lacks natural light. Introduce some in-between colors like creams or grays to create a more tonal scheme.

7. Blue and blue

Speaking of tonal palettes, opting for a pairing of the same color in lighter and darker hues works wonderfully in an entryway. Monochromatic schemes can look quite intense in larger rooms, but they are a winner in smaller spaces and can work to blur the edges of the space as you don't have any of that high contrast, making it appear larger. You can opt for bolder pairings like a dark blue and a light blue, or dial it down and pair colors that are only a few shades different.

Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing at Benjamin Moore suggests, 'Entryways create a first impression when you enter a home. They benefit from being decorated with a concise palette to create a calm space. Monochromatic schemes are smart and classic. We would recommend using a paler shade of one and a darker hue of another such as Polar Sky 1674 and Blue Nova 825. The contrast offers a fantastic opportunity to highlight architectural features such as architraves, cornicing and staircases.'

7. Gray and white

Gray and white is a classic combo, great for entryways no matter what the level of natural light. This space designed by K+Co Living gives an almost all-white scheme more of a layered look, by introducing gray and black accents. The coolness of the scheme is then balanced by the warmth of the wooden floor.

The overall look is cool, yet welcoming and as the studio's founder Karen Wolf explains, 'Entryways set the tone for the home. They immediately tell you the story of the family and also serve to balance spaces. The whimsical but minimal art by Jody Morlock welcomes guests with a casual smile.'

'Gray harmonizes well with almost every other hue, this versatility gives good reason for its popularity. A barely-there grey with a crisp white will create a timeless look and keep an entryway feeling bright and airy. However, not all white shades are going to work with any grey shade, as a rule of thumb pair warmer whites with warmer greys, and cool-toned greys with purer whites.' explains Helen Shaw.

Entryway color combinations are a really important part of your entire house scheme, the shades you choose set the tone for the rest of the home. All these combos are designer-approved, but as always be sure to order swatches and test everything in your space because we all know how much colors can change in different lights and when paired with different shades.

Recently I made the big, bold, and brave decision to take down the walls and doorway surrounding my staircase to create an open entryway. The positives outweighed the hard labor: more natural light, a great sense of flow, and a more welcoming first impression as you entered the home. But there was something I neglected to consider.

You see, what I failed to realize is that by doing this, I have actually now joined my entryway, staircase, dining room, and upstairs landing in one (hopefully) happy union. This means that every design decision I make in each of these spaces – from color schemes to flooring to print and pattern – affects the next space, and so on and so forth.

Lucky for me, I have interior designers at my disposal to advise me on the design rules for an open entryway. So I asked them for their biggest tips and hacks to enhance the decor, flow, and function of an open-plan entrance in a way that not only impresses guests but fosters a sense of cohesion between each space. If you too are struggling with making design decisions for your open entryway and want to avoid making entryway mistakes, here's what they had to say.

6 Design Rules For An Open Entryway

An open entryway is a great design choice that acts as both a functional and aesthetic bridge between the outdoors and the interior of your home. It's proving a popular choice for home renovators as it can help make even the smallest of spaces feel more expansive.

However, it's essential to follow the expert's advice when designing an entryway to make sure the space is both practical and pretty. Here, interior designers emphasize the importance of creating a look that harmonizes with the rest of your home, while also serving as a distinct welcoming area – a tricky balance. These are their 6 expert-led design rules for an open entryway.

1. Be consistent with your design

It sounds obvious, but consistency in design elements, such as flooring, color schemes, and lighting, is the key to achieving a seamless transition from the entryway to the adjoining rooms.

For example, while I was merrily ordering denim-y, mid-toned ocean-blue paint testers to try for my dining room, it hit me that this hue now has to work for the staircase and hallway too as they all lead into the dining space, without any doorways or obvious 'breakpoints'. Extending beyond just colors; furniture, lighting, and decorative accents are all key pieces that should align with your home’s style to help create a seamless transition from the entryway to other areas.

In the space seen above, designed by the beloved Heidi Caillier, the entryway has been wallpapered in a whimsical vine leaf print which reflects the green of the couch in the snug. Similarly, the blue tones are also echoed in both spaces thanks to the chairs surrounding the entry table, and the blue striped rug and accessories in the adjacent, chocolate brown sitting room.

2. Set the tone for the entire home

Your entryway should act as a preview of what’s to come and make a lasting impression. Which, for me, is why I'm feeling the pressure to make good decisions here.

'I love to design open entryways that set the tone and mood for the home,' agrees interior designer Marie Flanigan. 'The entryway sets the tone for the entire home, making a strong first impression with its inviting and cohesive design. By thoughtfully curating this space, you establish a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the home's overall aesthetic and character.'

For instance, if your home features a modern aesthetic with clean lines and a neutral palette, your entryway should mirror these elements.

'For these large open spaces, consider a beautifully styled table as the focal point or even a stunning light fixture. For table styling, I often use books, ceramics, florals, branches, and artwork to create a seamless transition from the exterior into the home,' Marie advises. By thoughtfully selecting these key elements, you can ensure that your entryway sets a cohesive and stylish tone for your entire home.

3. Create distinctive vignettes

'The key to success with an open entryway is creating distinctive vignettes throughout the space,' suggests designer Kathy Kuo. In case you're wondering, what is a vignette? Vignettes are small, curated displays that can highlight your personal style and provide focal points within a space. They can tell a story and give guests a glimpse into your home's character.

To start, consider incorporating a console table as the centerpiece of your vignette and building it up with artwork, mirrors, vases, candles, and framed photos. And don't overlook stylish storage solutions such as decorative catch-all bowls for keys or baskets for mail and stray hair ties. One tip tip for choosing entryway furniture? 'Consider scale and make sure you don't feel lost in space by sizing furniture and accessories correctly,' suggests Sarah Latham of Latham Interiors.

'Entryway pieces like benches, console tables, sets of coat hooks on the wall, and shoe racks are all going to help create structure and a sense of utility that will make it clear there are defined boundaries for the entryway, even if it's part of a larger open-concept space,' Kathy explains.

4. Conceal your clutter

A clutter-free entryway will not only look more appealing but also enhances the functionality of the space, particularly if it is open-plan. An organized entryway sets the tone for the rest of the home, so it should be both beautiful and practical, without the distraction of clutter.

I'm opting to build out under-the-stairs storage and a boot room-style bench area for putting on shoes, reminiscent of the space above designed by Yond Interiors. 'We always try to create a sense of place and space when there is an open concept space,' says Julia Miller, founder of Yond Interiors. 'So for us, that means using furniture, hooks, art, etc. to anchor the space. We also like to hide as much entryway clutter, so having a console piece with closed storage is always ideal.'

A storage bench is a great addition to any entryway as it combines seating with hidden storage, helping to keep the space clean and organized. Don't overlook vertical options, hooks, shelves, and cabinets keep items off the floor and easily accessible. Finally, give yourself some smaller places to hide loose items like baskets and bins.

5. Create zones with rugs

Rugs are a simple yet effective (and designer favorite) way to ground a space and establish distinct zones. They add texture, color, and warmth, making the entryway feel more inviting while helping to delineate the entryway from the rest of the living space, creating a visual boundary that can make the expanse feel more intentional.

'A design rule I always keep in mind is a properly sized rug to ground the space,' says Shelby Van Daley of Daley Home. 'It should be one step from the entry door and ideally, your rug will be 1 foot from all walls in your entryway,' Shelby advises.

Select a rug that is proportionate to your entryway. It should be large enough to accommodate foot traffic but not so large that it overwhelms the space. A runner rug, like in the space above, can be an excellent choice for a narrow entryway. I especially love the butter yellow walls paired with an unexpected red rug.

'Go for a proper rug to create a visual boundary to the room,' adds Heather Peterson, Heather Peterson Design. 'I like vintage wool options in a stronger pattern as they're very forgiving with all the traffic!'

6. Add personality

One final note: Your entryway is the perfect place to showcase your personality, it's the first thing guests see when they enter your home, so it should tell a story about who you are.

'An entryway is a place to make a statement, whether it is your utility room where function meets design, or the front of your house where it is your guest's first impression,' says interior designer Carley Summers.

'I always suggest adding your personality into an entry through pieces and symbols that express who you are, like this tulip in this entry cabinet [seen above],' says Carley. 'The owners loved Amsterdam, and the tulip is a symbol of that region. If you are wanting to bring the outside in, I suggest wallpaper with florals and greenery to add that special touch. And I always love to add flowers or a plant no matter what!'

'Also, don't forget the art; with an entry that is open to the rest of your home, you want to treat it like another room, not just a utilitarian pass-through,' suggests Heather Peterson. 'Make your accessories work for you: a footed bowl for keys, a pretty tray for mail. If it's got to be in sight, it might as well be pretty.'

The key really to all open-plan spaces is to ensure you have clear, designated and expertly designed zones. Whether you do that with color, vignettes, storage, or rugs (or all of the above!) you can transform your open entryway into a welcoming and practical space.

Whether you’re welcoming visitors or simply coming home after a long day, a well-designed entryway sets the tone for the entire home, making every entrance a delightful experience.

Entryway shelving is as practical as it is stylish – lending additional storage spaces as well as an area to display decor, it seems like an essential piece to add to the entrance to your home.

Every entryway idea is different, so choosing shelving that suits the space you are working with will make all the difference. An entryway needs to function, so having different storage options for hanging coats, storing accessories, and keeping the space uncluttered is always a priority.

Whether you're working with a long, narrow layout, or something more spacious, there are plenty of styles to choose from. Here, we ask interior designers to share their favorite entryway shelving ideas that marry visual appeal and practicality.

6 entryway shelving ideas to update your space

Entryway shelving is the perfect way to create a scheme that feels stylish and elevated while still remaining functional. Whatever style or size of space you are decorating, there's an idea here to inspire your design.

1. Add a floating shelf for decor

As the first part of a home you see, your entryway decor should serve as a preview into the rest of your home's style. Even the smallest of entryways can benefit from decorative pieces, and adding a floating shelf is a stylish and space-saving way to do it.

'As in many of our projects, there is a mudroom to help organize the family's stuff. In an entryway where guests will be coming and going, we like to add hooks, shelves, and a bench if possible. The shelf can be both functional and a place to display your favorite treasures and art,' says Jenn Sanborn, of Sacris Design.

Adding the shelf above the coat hooks makes the most of the vertical space and draws the eye up, giving the illusion of a larger space. Paired with the bench below, the overall design feels balanced and welcoming.

2. Introduce a built-in bookshelf

The bookshelf wealth trend has been proving popular this year, but a beautifully curated shelf moment doesn't need to be confined to a living room. If you have the space in your entryway, adding a built-in bookshelf will instantly make the space feel more homely and inviting, while offering an abundance of space to add your favorite decor.

This entryway is a perfect example – a built-in bookshelf has been painted dark blue to contrast with the neutral wall color, while the shelves are filled with a balanced mix of books and decor pieces. Adding these more elevated decorative elements to an entryway ensures the space feels in-keeping with the rest of your home.

3. Opt for a wall-mounted shelving unit

The style of shelving you introduce to your entryway will vary depending on how much entryway storage space you really need. If you simply need enough space to keep your essentials, a wall-mounted shelving unit, like in this beach house entryway, looks visually appealing while providing just the right amount of easy storage space.

'Most of the time, beach houses don’t need a lot of storage at the entry, just a place to offload beach bags, sandals and sunscreen bottles. So, an open shelving with space around or below it usually works great,' says Brad Ramsey, principal and founder of Brad Ramsey Interiors.  

When choosing your entryway shelving, make sure you opt for something that feels consistent with the design style throughout the rest of your home. 'I love to use the entry to thoughtfully give a taste of the rest of the design aesthetic throughout the house. It’s like a sneak peek of what’s to come,' adds Brad.

4. Create a focal point with statement shelving

In larger entryways, shelving is a great way to inject a more eye-catching design feature. A console table with shelves works just as well as floating shelves, and in this entryway, the curved shelf design adds a playful element to the space, complementing the other organic lines in the room.

'We introduced an organically shaped marble console to the entryway to create a striking contrast with the washi wallpaper. The mix of materials adds depth and intrigue to the space,' explains Lauren Lerner, CEO and founder of Living with Lolo. 

'The marble console, faceted mirror, and brass light fixture combine to infuse a touch of sophistication without coming off as overly pretentious, thanks to the harmonizing presence of the washi wallpaper,' she adds.

5. Disguise a radiator with a colorful shelf

Radiators rarely look visually appealing, and in an entryway, they can feel like a dominating feature. Shelving is a great solution for this – simply adding a floating shelf above the radiator in a bright color or interesting shape can take the focus away from the radiator, essentially disguising it.

In this colorful entryway designed by Cathy Nordström, a green shelf with a wavy profile has been added above the radiator. Not only does this provide a place to keep essentials such as keys and trinkets, but it helps the radiator to blend into the wall and prevents it from being the first thing your eye is drawn to in the space.

6. Decorate an entryway with a hutch cabinet

For a larger piece of furniture, an entryway can often benefit from a beautifully made shelving unit that has a mix of open and closed storage. This means you can display decor items at eye level, and messier items can be hidden behind closed doors.

'I love the idea of adding an entryway cabinet that features storage space below and shelving on top, as well as a flat surface to serve the function of a console table,' says Kathy Kuo, CEO of Kathy Kuo Home.

'A hutch cabinet in your entryway makes for a strong first impression and also offers tons of storage. Use the upper shelves for a mix of practical and decorative purposes; maybe one shelf features jars and trays with items like spare keys, photo chargers, and gloves, while another is for seasonal decor pieces,' she suggests.

Whether you're inspired by a statement bookshelf design or prefer something small and space-saving, these entryway shelving ideas offer a wonderful space for displaying decor and maximizing storage. Regardless of the entryway shelving style you choose, remember to ensure it works in your space, and serves the purpose you need it to. 

Visual clutter can be a source of stress, no matter which room it is in, but when it is your entryway that looks cluttered, the space that sets the tone for the rest of your home to guests, and after a long day of work, the negative effect of this can feel even more intensified.

Even if an entryway is organized, visual clutter can still build up easily, making your entryway feel untidy, unwelcoming, and smaller. For this reason, finding some tactical storage solutions and techniques can ensure this is a more relaxing, open space.

In this guide, our experts have explained the best storage ideas and ways to organize your entryway to keep clutter at bay. 

Ways to reduce visual clutter in an entryway

Not only can visual clutter make cleaning and navigating your entryway more challenging, but it can also release the stress hormone cortisol in the brain, meaning reducing visual clutter is a task that is beneficial for more than just organizational purposes.

1. Use open storage sparingly

While open storage may be a convenient way to keep items accessible and is a space-saving solution where entryways do not have space for closed storage, they can make an entryway look disorganized and messy if not used sparingly. 

There are a few ways this can be done:

• For one, try to keep open storage to a minimum. Opt for closed cabinets, dressers, storage console tables, and cubbies where possible while limiting the use of open shelves, hooks, or pegboards. Having a balance between open and closed storage is usually the best way to mix convenience with a sleek aesthetic, allowing you to keep a few pleasing items on show and the rest concealed.
• Consider using decorative baskets and bowls to corral smaller items, streamlining the look of items stored on open shelving. Follow the 'No More Than Four' rule to reduce visual noise.
• Limit the number of items on display. Hooks, coat stands, and pegboards can be convenient for storage if you don't have cabinets to conceal larger items, however, be sure to keep the items stored on this open storage limited to essential or daily-used items to keep these from looking overcrowded.
• Similarly, only display a few carefully curated decorative items. Create visual balance by spacing these items evenly on shelves and choosing those in varying heights and shapes to create a more intentional appearance, reducing the impression of clutter.
• Finally, Lucy Searle, Content Director of Homes & Gardens advises: 'Try to position open storage so that it isn't immediately visible from the front door, nor from, for example, the door to your living room. Out of sight, out of mind.'

2. Use discrete catch-all trays

One of the main reasons why entryways become cluttered is because they often serve as a catch-all for miscellaneous items. Instead of scattering items like keys, sunglasses, or even shoes across various surfaces and areas in your entryway, having a designated catch-all space for these can keep visual clutter from ever piling up. However, be sure the catch-all storage is out of sight, either by storing it in a drawer or openly but in something decorative, like a box, bowl, or basket with a lid.

Although catch-alls are usually a space where items are stored until they are dealt with later, you can use this opportunity to create an organizational system to allow family members to quickly and conveniently drop off daily used items. 

For example, if your designated catch-all space for smaller items is in a drawer, you can implement dividers and label each section for different items to be stored there. This will make organizing your entryway and locating items such as keys, letters, and sunglasses easier and keep visual clutter from accumulating.  

3. Keep items where they will be used

While you may have ample storage in your entryway, you might find that clutter builds up regardless. With so much coming and going, putting away items that are used frequently can sometimes feel like a hassle. As a result, family members often place items in convenient locations rather than their designated spots.  

'To help you win the battle against the daily build-up of visual clutter, designate storage spaces for categories of items corresponding to where they will be used. This way, you can keep them from being scattered around your entryway,' says Lucy Searle. 'This is because it allows for quick, convenient access, encouraging younger – and messier – members of the family, in particular, to put their own items away.'

The best way to do this is to assess where items seem to naturally wind up and adjust the location of storage options accordingly. For instance, I now keep a key bowl and letter organizer in my console drawer, a basket for shoes under my entryway bench where I always put on and take off my shoes, and a basket for umbrellas by the door, where I find it best to air them out after a rainy day. 

4. Use storage-furniture

Look for furniture with storage that maintains a clean, uncluttered look. For example, a bench with a hinged lid can provide seating while also offering a place to store shoes, bags, or seasonal items. 

This can offer convenient storage to reduce the number of items cluttering your countertops as well as minimize the amount of furniture taking up floor space in your entryway, which can also be a source of visual clutter. 

5. Declutter and organize

One of the best ways to reduce visual clutter in your mudroom is by regularly decluttering and organizing your entryway.

At least once a week you should sort through any miscellaneous items in the catch-all zone and ensure other items are in their designated space. 

Take some time every few months to go through your entryway storage and get rid of anything you no longer need or use. Rotate seasonal items to make more room for frequently used items in your entryway. 

Maintaining these routines will keep your mudroom organized and prevent it from becoming overwhelmed with unnecessary items.

6. Choose minimalist decor

Having a minimalist decor scheme can streamline your entryway's aesthetic and contribute to making the space look larger.

'Consider opting for a neutral color palette for walls, flooring, and storage solutions,' recommends Dianna Scarpa, CEO of Opal Home Staging. 'Neutral tones create a sense of openness and spaciousness, reducing visual clutter. Lighter shades also reflect more natural light, further enhancing the feeling of openness.

'Additionally, use matching storage containers, including baskets and bins, to store smaller items like gloves, scarves, or pet supplies. This creates a cohesive look and makes it easier to find what you need when you need it. Minimalist design not only creates visual space but also fosters a sense of calm and serenity in your entryway.'

Finally, be sure that pathways are kept clear to prevent the entryway from feeling cramped. Avoid placing furniture or storage units in the middle of the room, and ensure there is enough space to move around comfortably.

The first space you see when entering a home, an entryway should be a preview into the rest of your interiors, and create a welcoming atmosphere. At the same time, it's a hard-working area that sees a lot of footfall, so the space needs to be hardwearing as well as aesthetically pleasing – a sometimes difficult balance to achieve.

If you've been looking through entryway ideas, you've probably come across examples designed in mid-century modern style. This timeless interior design style features neutrals with bold accents, clutter-free, functional spaces, and lots of sleek, wooden additions. This interior design style offers a balance between vintage and contemporary, and seamlessly blends beauty and function.

So, how do you create a mid-century modern entryway that feels elevated, stylish, and functional? We've asked that very question to interior designers to find out exactly how they'd create an entryway that masters the style.

 Mid-century modern entryway ideas 

Designing a mid-century modern entryway is about more than adding wooden accents and tidying up. Color, texture, and dimension all come into play when creating a successful scheme. From creative storage solutions to sleek installations, these ideas are sure to inspire.

1. Prioritize closed storage

Mid-century modern design is all about sleek lines and clutter-free spaces, so introducing closed entryway storage is a must. To embrace mid-century modern style, opt for a wooden dresser or cabinet that leans more orange in tone than grey or dark brown.

'Mid-century modern furniture is so versatile stylistically. But if you want more of an MCM look, you can easily get a small dresser for some great storage and a place to set mail and keys, as well as add a simple round mirror or a piece of art,' says interior designer Emily Henderson.

In this entryway, a dresser with tall legs has been added for ample storage, while a large round mirror and wall light have been added on the wall above it to add decorative detail and practical lighting. This result is a sleek, simple entryway that includes key elements of mid-century design.

2. Introduce contrasts with different materials

When you're designing your mid-century modern entryway, make sure you don't go overboard with wood. A space decorated floor to ceiling with wooden materials and furniture can quickly start to feel more cabin the mid-century. Instead, opt for a blend of materials that complement each other while still maintaining a sense of mid-century modern style.

'We think styling for mid-century is about different materials and textures living in harmony. Slate or stone foyers are common in mid-century entryways – it's no problem if they get wet,' explains Meghan Lavery and Daniel King, owners of Home Union.

While the larger installations are important to your entryway scheme, so are the decorative details and storage solutions to make your mid-century modern scheme feel complete. 'A potted plant is welcoming and adds a touch of life. A practical and beautiful piece of furniture to remove your shoes. And a storage piece for mail and keys to avoid clutter,' they add.

3. Add retro furniture and decor

Mid-century modern style is known for its bold designs, so more retro additions add a lot of personality to a space, especially an entryway. 'When crafting a mid-century modern entryway, search for pieces that add some spunk and personality to the space while utilizing clean lines and organic materials to help execute the look,' says Eddie Maestri, principal architect and creative director of Maestri Studio.

In this entryway design, the bones of the space are kept simple with wood and neutral colors for the walls and floors, but interest is added with the entryway furniture. 'We loved how the hand-painted front of this console gives a bespoke and playful vibe to the otherwise formal vibe of this entryway. Additionally, bold geometric light fixtures are a great way to spruce the space and add extra interest,' he adds.

4. Inject personality with a colorful rug

Entryways are often on the smaller side, and sometimes long, narrow spaces. As such, it can feel difficult to add color and personality without overcrowding the area. As the first point of entry in your home, you want to ensure you strike a balance between giving a preview of your home's character and creating an entryway where you and your guests have space to remove outerwear without fear of knocking into anything.

'I like to think of an entry as a point of pause, but also a way to set the vibe for the entire home,' says Jessica Davis, interior designer at Atelier Davis. 'It's a great spot to have a feature piece of art and a statement entryway rug, like I did in our mid-century renovation. If you have more space, some sort of console/credenza and a mirror is also great too,' she adds.

5. Add elegance with wood tones and black accents

In recent years, mid-century modern design has evolved from what it once was. Nowadays, this interior design style takes on a more elegant form with sleek lines and considered furniture items.

'The collective definition of mid-century modern has evolved over the past 20 years to mean something more elegant and abstract than the punchy colors and cone-footed walnut furniture we all first fell in love with in the early aughts,' explains interior designer Bethany Adams. 'Now, to bring the style into your home in an easy way, start in the entry with a small table of teak, rosewood, or walnut (all the better if you can incorporate some storage drawers for keys or the dog's leash),' she adds.

The decorative details are crucial for executing a successful scheme – whether you decorate with art, books, or statement lighting, these finer details will pull the whole entryway design together. Once you've added larger furniture items, Bethany suggests adding 'a black vase with a branch from the yard, a favorite piece of art above, elegantly and simply framed in black, and a small stack of art books by your favorite mid-century artists. Throw down a colorful kilim in this neutral atmosphere and see the space really come to life.'

6. Embrace a mid-century modern color palette

Although a lot of mid-century modern entryway schemes tend to lean more towards pairing wood tones with neutral paint colors, there is still space for introducing brighter hues. Greens, oranges, yellow, blues and reds are most typically associated with mid-century modern design, so leaning into these palettes will aid a successful design.

In this entryway by Paradowski Studio, a green-yellow tone has been painted over the walls, storage cabinets, and ceiling, allowing the dark wooden herringbone flooring to really pop. The finish here has been kept sleek with clean lines, but interest has been added to the ceiling with organic-shaped indents added to frame the lights.

Your entryway is the first time your guests see your home, so making sure you showcase your style and personality is key to creating an inviting and cohesive scheme. Mid-century modern design is the perfect balance between a sleek, organized space and a design that feels vibrant and full of character.

Wood tones are timeless, as are neutral paint colors – adding a more retro, daring design element through furniture and decor is a subtle yet effective choice. Have fun with decorating your mid-century modern entryway – it's a design style that celebrates experimenting with fun decor.

Coastal interiors, defined by earthy materials and calming colors, are on the rise once again, and for good reason – even when miles from the nearest coast, bright and beachy spaces instantly transport us to a state of relaxation. 

When curating a coastal-inspired home, the entryway is an important place to get the look down, setting the tone for the entire space. But coastal decor isn't always as simple as it sounds. Too many ocean motifs can send a space into a kitschy spiral, but you'll need a bit of beach to channel the coastal aesthetic. 

We spoke with interior designers to get their top tips for finding a tasteful balance within coastal decor, creating entryways that feel fresh and inviting. This is how the experts create glowy, gorgeous coastal entryways, letting the beachy atmosphere in at the front door.

7 chic but cozy coastal entryway ideas

Embracing the coastal aesthetic will leave you with an airy, alluring entryway that's both beautiful and functional. A lovely welcome back after a beach adventure, or (more likely) a day out at work, your entryway will be sure to instantly calm with soothing shades and natural textures.

1. Evoke the great outdoors

Coastal style draws from the great outdoors, so centering natural elements in the entryway is key. Elizabeth Drake, principal designer of her eponymous design studio, says the entryway should complement outdoor scenery – even when it's not quite beach weather.

'A good "coastal entry" leads the eye out to the view of the water – I find an arched entry framing the water view to be a compelling design element. Even winter snow on the lake is worthy of framing,' she says.

Elizabeth adds that design elements should 'harmonize with the water views' instead of 'taking over with peppy colors.' She brings the outdoors into the space by using sunrise-inspired hues and organic, natural materials like grasscloth and slate tile.

Kathy Kuo, interior designer and CEO of Kathy Kuo Home, says coastal-style entryways that integrate environmental elements 'echo the calm feeling of spending time by the ocean' – a feeling that truly can't be beat. She suggests introducing entryway furniture like console tables and benches in textural, organic materials like 'jute, rattan, seagrass and driftwood.'

'These natural materials will make the entryway feel instantly coastal-chic, and you can go even further by styling your entry console with items like oversized seashells and coral and woven trays or baskets,' says Kathy.

2. Embrace a coastal color scheme

Along with natural elements, designers suggest bringing in color schemes that draw from the outdoors. Though the coastal color palette can quickly become a bit over-the-top with bright blues and harsh whites, pulling tones straight from nature can ease the overwhelm. Lauren Kavanagh, art director at wallpaper brand Hovia, says that shades 'reminiscent of a coastal environment' work best for entryways.

'Blues, greens, soft neutrals, sandy yellows and warm white paints all contribute to the theme effectively. Incorporate color subtly with abstract wallpaper designs, especially those featuring gentle, washy watercolor brushstrokes reflecting the changing tones and forms of the tide,' says Lauren.

Sue Kim, director of color marketing at Minwax and Valspar, says she expects coastal style will continue to top the interior design trends in 2024. She adds that the aesthetic 'draws upon natural, recycled materials,' leading people to desire more subtle, gentle hues. This also aligns with a trending desire for spaces that feel calm and tranquil.

'For many people, recycled materials have come to be associated with a distressed, mulchy surface effect which, when translated to color, is very desaturated and soft. These desaturated colors fit the attitude of being one with nature and sit well next to a variety of other colors,' says Sue.

Sue suggests Minwax's Oyster Gray, Gentle Olive, Silvered Gray, Vintage Blue and White Wash finishes for classic hues that will make a coastal entryway shine. If you're after a 'white wash look,' she notes that a 'barely-there wood stain' makes a room feel more beachy, adding rustic charm and character in an instant.

3. Let in natural lighting

Embrace the sun-drenched, airy coastal atmosphere in your entryway by letting all the natural light in. Lauren suggests leaving windows and doors unobstructed so as to facilitate natural lighting, and to 'add cleverly positioned entryway mirrors to maximize feelings of space and openness.'

Emily LaMarque, owner of Emily LaMarque Design Studio, agrees, saying the 'trick to designing a coastal entryway is to keep the space feeling light and airy.' She suggests a comfortable bench with basket storage, or a console table that fits the aesthetic. For the rest of the room, she tries to channel lightness and levity in the patterns and materials she chooses.

'When selecting furnishings, think neutral and natural materials like wood, wicker, seagrass and jute, and opt for slightly weathered materials over anything too refined or polished. Bring in textiles with a casual pattern – a pale stripe or a subtle neutral print can be both subtle and elevated – and go for lightweight linen fabrics on window treatments and upholstery rather than anything too heavy or that will block too much light,' says Emily.

4. Ensure your space is weather-resistant

A coastal space won't last long if it's not equipped for its natural environment, so designing with this in mind is paramount. Elizabeth Drake says she likes integrating entryway rugs with intricate patterns to 'camouflage and grab the sand and debris that tracks in from the lake' – an experience that's all too familiar for her clients living on the coast of Lake Michigan.

'I especially like using vintage Persian rugs for their heavy weight and durability, providing that no-stress feeling as the children come inside all wet and sandy. A quick shake of the rug outside cleans it up,' she says.

In this coastal entryway, Elizabeth also opted for a durable floor tile to double down on the space's long-lasting appeal. 'The blue-green slate floor provides the harmonious color palette, and can’t be scratched up from sand or stained by water,' she adds.

5. Leave room for imperfection

Part of a coastal home's beauty is the slightly rustic look that comes with taking inspiration from the outdoors. Lauren suggests leaning into imperfection when designing an entryway space in this style.

'When styling a coastal entryway, look for natural materials full of beautiful imperfections; pale or white-washed woods on furniture, seagrass or jute runner rugs, and linen fabrics all work well. Dried reeds, grasses and flowers in hand-crafted ceramic vases are also a modern take on the style. Driftwood and shells are a more direct interpretation of the style and work when used sparingly,' she says.

Lauren adds that biophilic- and artisanal-inspired styles are on trend, and says coastal design offers 'a refreshing way to incorporate natural tones, textures and materials into the home.'

6. Introduce modern accents

Coastal style has been around for quite some time, so it's no surprise that some of its spaces feel dated. Rayana Schmitz, founder and principal designer of Florida-based Firefinish Interiors, says she makes the coastal look more contemporary by introducing clean lines and sculptural elements into the space.

'To modernize the coastal vibe, I add sculptural pieces that serve as focal points, blending art with functionality. A hint of blue brings in the tranquility of the sea, completing the look. It's about creating a space that's inviting and evokes a sense of calm the moment you step through the door,' says Rayana.

In this entryway, Firefinish Interiors mastered a modern take on coastal decor by incorporating streamlined seating and a unique, textured mirror.

7. Steer clear of kitsch

When it comes to this style of decor a sleek and sophisticated style can succumb to coastal decor mistakes and veer into kitschy territory. Literal interpretations of the beach – think seashells and palm tree-themed accessories – feel over the top, and it's important to remember you're designing an entryway, not a themed celebration. If you're inclined to bring in some coastal motifs, Emily suggests bringing in just 'a couple subtle touches.'

'Keep in mind that less is more. Ultimately, the space should feature subtle coastal touches, so that the atmosphere feels inspired rather than kitschy beach or nautical-themed,' says Emily.

Caroline Brackett, principal designer of Caroline Brackett Studio of Design, also says no to 'anchors and other similar kitschy items.' Instead, she suggests focusing on texture, bringing in 'wicker accents, raffia-wrapped consoles, grasscloth wall coverings or sculptural mirrors.' 

Along with a durable rug and an 'airy' color palette, your coastal entry will convey the beachy appeal without becoming overkill. In this entryway, pictured above, Caroline paired a dark wood set of drawers with an intricate gold mirror and pops of blue in the form of throw pillows for a contemporary coastal look.

'A lot of times, the coastal theme is translated into colors – sky blue predominantly – or images and objects such as sea shells and fish. I'm a big believer that space is more than the objects it houses,' says Hafsa Burt, founder and lead architect at hb+a Architects.

Hafsa says to focus on the light and setting of a space rather than representations of the ocean or beach. By keeping the space full to the brim with natural light and making sure the room is resilient enough for outdoor activities that trail inside, she says it's much more likely your entryway will remain inviting and serene.

First impressions are important, and your entryway says quite a bit about your style. For a considered and elevated take on coastal decor, make sure you're putting the outdoors first – your environment will never steer you wrong.

Aside from the front door, your entryway is critical for creating a good and lasting first impression. It's a point of transition physically and mentally from the outside hustle and bustle to the indoors into what should be a safe, comfortable, and relaxing space. 

So if your entryway, hallway, or corridor holds the power to shape the mood for the rest of your home, we must consider the entrance as the first step in how to make a home more relaxing. 

From calming entryway colors that evoke tranquility to smart storage that declutters both the space and your headspace, interior designers understand the importance of creating a welcoming atmosphere from the threshold. Here we dive into the best ways to create a zen-like feeling in your entryway.

How To Make Your Entryway More Relaxing

'The hallway is the entrance to your home, so it’s vital to create a warm, inviting feel the minute you step through the door,' says Charlie Bowles, director of Original BTC. But that can be easier said than done, especially if you have a large open space it can be hard to create a snug, cozy atmosphere. It is important to assert that buffer from the outside world and create an entryway even when your home doesn't have one with a dedicated drop zone that welcomes the person entering and allows them to take a pause.

Entryways are naturally a space of chaos, and it's no secret that a cluttered space isn't great for your mood. A well-designed entryway filled with items you love can help to foster a sense of peace, relieve stress, and create a sense of "ah I'm home" the minute you step through the door. 

Keep scrolling to find out the best and most impactful ways to bring a sense of calm to your entryway.

1. Nail the very first impression and start from the porch

Remember that the very first impression begins with the front porch ideas and try to extend your design considerations to the outdoor space leading to your front door. A well-maintained porch with comfortable seating, vibrant greenery, and subtle lighting sets the stage for what awaits inside. 

'Your front porch is the first thing guests see when they arrive and its design should be inviting and reflective of your overall style,' advises Paulina Perrault, founder and principal designer at Paulina Perrault Interiors. 

'If space allows, nothing is more warm and welcoming than a beautiful porch swing,' adds Paulina. 'It creates an intimate place to gather and provides a natural connection between your interiors and the outdoors.'

2. Adopt a light and breezy color scheme

One thing that's sure to help create the illusion of calm in an entryway? Your choice of entryway color ideas. Muted, neutral tones are much easier on the eye than brighter colors – especially after a long day. 

'Your entryway sets the tone for the rest of your home, so creating a calming and relaxing atmosphere in that space really goes a long way,' says designer Kathy Kuo. 'Opt for light and breezy colors to bring in light and make your entryway feel inviting.'

Ashley McCollum, color expert at GLIDDEN® paint by PPG, says: 'The entryway is an introduction to your home and sets the stage for greeting your family, friends and visitors. Choose a calming color palette for the walls, flooring, and decor,' she advises. 

'Neutral tones like soft beige like Bone White, a pale blue, or light gray like Gray Frost can create a serene atmosphere and make the space feel more open and airy,' adds Ashley. Incorporate these calming hues into your walls, furniture, and decor to achieve a visually soothing entryway.

3. Curate plenty of storage to de-clutter

A clutter-free entryway contributes to a peaceful home environment. Consider installing a wall of entryway storage to keep shoes, bags, and everyday items neatly tucked away to promote a sense of order and calm.

'Entryways are tricky because they are inherently a dumping ground for all things shoes, bags, mail, and random junk,' says Emily Henderson. 'The obvious answer to creating a more relaxing entryway is to eliminate the visual clutter.'

'For me, clutter creates a ton of anxiety, so something like a shoe basket, an enclosed shoe cabinet, a little table with a spot/holder for your keys and mail, and/or hooks for bags and jackets,' Emily advises. 'Small changes can make a surprisingly big difference. Start small and see how it goes.'

‘The hallway is the immediate introduction to your home, therefore creating a space that is easily organized and clutter-free is the best way to ensure it is always a welcome return,' agrees Caroline Milns, head of interior design at Zulufish. 'Consider custom clever storage, which can house all the daily necessities; from shoes and coats to bags and boots. This can be built vertically to maximize the overall space if you have a narrow hallway, as well as added into seating in wider spaces to create a more flexible approach.'

4. Include a bench seat or chair

Adding a bench seat or a comfortable chair in the entryway serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. It provides a spot to sit while putting on or taking off shoes and introduces an element of relaxation. 

In the entryway above, designed by BHDM Design, they create a hallway nook that denotes the perfect place to unwind. If you're able to build a custom bench or banquette seating in your home, outfit the space with pillows, soft fabrics, blankets, and soft lighting to elevate the comfort level. 

'Comfort up the ambiance with naturally textured forms that will make the place feel more peaceful,' advises designer Artem Kropovinsky. 'A rich rug and a couple of cushioned throw pillows on a bench will give it warmth and comfort, and when you create your visitors feel more welcome,' he adds.

5. Add a front door curtain for softness

Soft textiles can instantly soften the entryway's look and feel. Consider adding a front door curtain to introduce a touch of elegance and coziness.

'Door curtains are a great way to introduce texture and interest to an entrance or doorway, creating 'soft doors' to section the area off and easily shield things you don't want to see or be seen,' advises Tori Murphy, founder of the English textile brand of the same name who created the frilly curtain in the space seen above.

'They are also a simple solution to keeping heat in and pesky draughts at bay,' she adds. 'Opt for a cocooning door curtain with naturally insulating material like wool, with a little extra pooling length for the most enveloping result.'

6. Focus on decor and personality

Infuse your entryway with personal touches that reflect your style and home to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Consider incorporating artwork, family photos, or statement pieces to make your home feel more like you.

'If you have the space for a console table, create a relaxing styled vignette on top of it with decorative accents like a vase of fresh flowers, a Tibetan singing bowl, a designer scented candle, or a decorative dish to house sage bundles and sticks of palo santo,' advises Kathy Kuo.

Alternatively, try to flex your bookshelf wealth with a built-in or freestanding niche for books, decorative accessories, a little chair, and some art. When choosing artwork for your entryway walls, make sure the pieces selected have a calming, positive effect and make sure you have somewhere to place your keys.

7. Don't forget a mirror to bounce light

Decorating with mirrors is a powerful tool in entryway decor as they not only enhance the perception of space by helping to bounce natural light but also provide a spot to check your appearance before heading out. Choose a statement mirror that complements your decor to add both functionality and flair.

'A relaxing entry begins before you step inside, so set the laid-back tone for the house right at the front door,' advises interior designer Mindy Laven. 'Once inside, ensure there is a space for dropping things off and a mirror for "fit checks", coming or going!'

If you're looking to further optimize on light, Caroline Milns advises opening up sightlines with picture windows into other rooms, or by adding crittal doors. 'Often hallways can be rather dark or corridor-like, so doors are a brilliant way of delivering a sleek, contemporary finish that also allows a space to be ‘multi-plan’ instead of limited to ‘open-plan’,' says Caroline. 'This helps to connect your hallway to the rest of the house without any loss of light, giving a feeling of more space.'

8. Finally, introduce multiple lighting sources for ambiance

Well-thought-out entryway lighting is key to establishing the right mood. Incorporate multiple light sources such as overhead fixtures, table lamps, and sconces to create a layered lighting effect. This not only adds warmth but also enhances the overall ambiance of your entryway.

'If you have space for a small console table, a table lamp adds a note of warmth and welcome,' suggests Original BTC's director Charlie Bowles. Plus, it’s always nice to have the option not to have the overhead lights on especially when you have guests over in the evening.

'A candle at the entry is always a great idea,' adds Mindy Laven. 'Greet your guests with a warm glow and cozy scent. This is the perfect way to create a relaxing entry!'

From adopting a light and airy color scheme to a cozy nook, each element plays a crucial role in shaping the welcoming embrace of your entryway. Remember that a feeling of calm starts from within, so set about making a plan to adopt ways that you know will instill that from the get-go. Maybe that's with considerate organization, a comforting scent, or simply your favorite family photo to greet you on arrival – whatever you choose, spare a thought for the often-overlooked entryway and ensure it provides a daily dose of zen.

Whether your front door opens up onto a grand foyer with sweeping stairs, directly into your living room, or down a narrow corridor, the entryway is the first impression of your home. 

'The minute you walk in the door, it has to add up to who you are and tell the story of your home and who lives there,' says Anne-Marie Barton of AMB Design. The significance of an entryway is often overlooked. Not just a transitional space that takes you from outdoors to indoors, the entryway, hallway, or foyer implies the decor and mood of your home of the entire home.

If your home doesn't have a natural drop zone, and you're wondering just how to make an entryway when you don't yet have one, you can always create one. From clever zoning and strategic furniture placement to the addition of mirrors, rugs, and custom cabinetry, here are 6 expert-approved solutions to help you fake a foyer.

How to create an entryway

Without an obvious spot or even room for coats, shoes, bags, and keys, the entrance to your home can quickly become a dumping ground. Particularly if your home benefits from an open-plan layout.

'Why bother investing in considered interior design choices throughout your home if you neglect it right where it counts – as people take their first step through the door,' says Lauren Zeng, design expert from Homary. 'You don’t need a double marble staircase, official hallway, or giant chandelier to make a statement.'

All it takes is a stretch of wall, a corner, or even a nook to put together an 'entryway' space – you just have to get a little creative with it. And that's where the help of the experts comes in. Offering their ideas and suggestions for how to create a functional and beautiful entryway.

1. Define your entry space or area

The first (and most obvious) point of call is to identify a space near the main entrance to your home or the area where guests typically enter. This can be as simple as an empty expanse of wall, an unused corner, under the stairs, or perhaps a nook or alcove.

'The key to creating an entryway when you lack a proper one is to define the space so that it appears that it was designed as an entryway,' says designer Shannon Eddings. 

Then, you want to define a visual boundary with paint, paper, or furnishings. 'This can be achieved by adding wallpaper to the wall or with the use of light fixtures, furniture, or rugs. We tend to select one long empty wall in our client's homes as a designated 'entryway' and zone it with the use of wallpaper, light fixtures, furniture or rugs,' Shannon adds.

'Nooks make for great entry spaces, adds designer Linda Hayslett. 'Sometimes you might have a nook area or closet that can be made into an open entryway storage area for the entry. That way you can store shoes easily out of sight, but also drop keys and mail off in a tray or vessel.'

2. Try out a table or bench

'If your home is lacking in a dedicated entryway, a strategically-placed table can provide the ideal stopping point on returning home to place down keys without looking too out of place,' says Helen Pett, design ambassador for Arteriors London.

'This can be a practical inclusion, and yet also somewhere to accentuate with beautiful lighting, artwork, or ornaments for that finishing touch that welcomes you and your guests into the space,' adds Helen.

For those with a large, open entrance hall in their home, you will appreciate the difficulty of assigning a catchall area that doesn't feel like it's just hidden in a corner. A round table will provide that bold first impression to welcome guests, provide a place for statement decor, and serve a purpose as a place to catch your keys upon entry. 

'By incorporating greenery, a table, mirror, and accessories into your entryway, you can create a visually appealing and functional vignette that makes the most of dead space while reflecting your personal style and welcoming guests into your home,' adds Shannon Wollack, founder and partner of Studio LIFE/STYLE.

'When you don't have a specific area at the entry, one easy way to create an area for shoes, keys, and bags is to see if you have a good medium to long wall,' advises designer Linda Hayslett from LH.Designs. 'If you have a nice size wall, then an entry table can easily help create an entry for when you come home and dump items off from the day.' 

If space is of concern in a small entryway, opt for something slimline or multifunctional pieces with storage to keep the area clutter-free. 'They come in different sizes, but some come with storage, and shelving for shoes and can hold a lot of small items,' Linda adds.

'Be mindful of the scale and proportion of the furniture and accessories you choose,' adds Shannon. 'In a small space, less is often more. Opt for items that fit comfortably within the available space without overwhelming it.'

3. Add in a mirror and some art

'Go big on an entryway mirror,' advises designer Kristen Fiore, owner and principal designer of Sacramento-based Kristen Elizabeth Designs.  'Make this a design element that you love looking at. Use an oversized mirror to not only reflect you but also as a creative way to trick the eye into making your space look larger,' she adds.

Integrate mirrors to create an illusion of extra space, if required, and enhance natural light in the entryway to make it feel more open and inviting. 

Designer Tom Rutt of TR Studio says: 'Defining an entryway space can be as simple as placing a dedicated piece of freestanding furniture to demarcate an area. A statement mirror and slim console table will immediately read as a place to set your keys and zone your hallway when you don’t have a designated entryway,' he advises.

'Art provides the mood', says designer Anne-Marie Barton. 'It delivers the tones for the rest of the house, providing a philosophy of your home decor style and your family,' she adds.

If a large mirror isn't to your taste, or you want to be more maximalist in your wall decor approach, decorating with art is your friend. Choose a statement piece or an entire gallery wall that will help to zone your entryway space (particularly great for a corner or nook). If your hallway walls flow up your stairs, a mix of artwork and photographs can be a stylish way to decorate staircase walls and connect the two spaces.

4. Zone the space with a rug

Don't underestimate the power of rugs to define a space. A well-chosen rug can add texture, color, and personality to your entryway. Setting down a rug in that area will make it feel like a unified, separate zone.

'Without a physical hallway you can draw your guests in using linear rugs and runners, this helps to guide people and zone your entrance way,' says Homary's Lauren Zeng. 'The addition of the rug helps to further clarify that this IS, in fact, an entryway,' agrees designer Shannon Eddings.

'A rug injects essential warmth and creates a more defined sense of space while light fixtures set the tone for your aesthetic,' adds Anne-Marie Barton.

5. Employ custom cabinetry for storage

If you're dreaming of a mud room or boot room but just cannot find the space in your home layout, bespoke cabinetry is the way forward. 'Custom cabinetry is always a great idea if you have a larger family, an awkward space, and/or specific needs,' advises Linda Hayslett. 'Having something that is custom made for the home and your family can really help with storing all those shoes that get dumped off at the entry,' she adds.

'Think about incorporating customized storage solutions that can provide ultimate organization for your daily needs,' agree Katie Logan LeBlanc and Jesen Killen, founders of design firm Logan Killen Interiors. 'And have fun! These small transition spaces can pack a lot of personality and help set the tone for the spaces beyond.'

Not only does this afford you a fun design opportunity, but floor-to-ceiling cabinets for coats, bags, shoes, etc, keep adjacent rooms clean and organized. Plus, if you're going fully bespoke, include a seating spot to put on or take off shoes. 'Add seating in the cabinetry so that way you have a fun spot for anyone to easily put on their shoes and grab things quickly from the closet you just added to the entry,' says Linda.

6. Don't forget practical things like coat hooks and a doormat

Incorporate shelves, hooks, and baskets for efficient storage of shoes, coats, and accessories. 'Create an entryway feel by first investing in practical pieces like a doormat, coat hooks, and an entry bench or console if you have the space,' advises designer Kathy Kuo. 'These functional pieces set the tone that this is a threshold and an area for transitioning from the outdoors in,' she adds.

'Two very important items in an entryway are a place to put your keys or handbag, a place to check your style before heading out the door, and a place for shoes and or jackets,' agrees designer Kristen Fiore. 

Try vertical storage in a small corner or nook as they free up your floors and keep everything neat. 'If you are really limited on space, consider a few pegs or wall hooks that are stylish to hang jackets and umbrellas,' adds Kristen.

By following these tips, you can turn any space into a well-designed and functional entryway, proving that a lack of a traditional foyer is no barrier to making a grand entrance. Get ready to redefine the first impression your home makes with useful advice from expert interior designers.

Kids aren’t renowned for their tidiness, or their timekeeping, for that matter, so if you want to streamline your exit strategy (and ensure a happy homecoming), organizing an entryway with children in mind is the best chance you’ve got. 

‘When you’ve got kids in your household, decluttering an entryway is one thing, but organizing an entryway so it remains neat, orderly, and sensibly streamlined is an ongoing project. But it's a project worth committing to, given it’s the first space guests see when they walk through the door. 

You want your entryway ideas to be stylish as well as functional for the family. Below, we share nine ways to invite order into your home. 

How to organize an entryway with children in mind 

With school backpacks to find, lunch boxes to pack, and coats to put on, getting out of the house with little ones in tow is pretty chaotic, and that’s without having to wade through last week’s swim bags and smelly gym shoes just to get to the front door. 

Most entryway home organizing ideas apply regardless of who’s in your household, but there are a few kid-friendly adjustments that, according to the experts, are well worth making. Having tried them ourselves, we (and our children) can vouch for them, too. 

1. Consider how you use your entryway and plan accordingly

Bear in mind that the best entryway ideas (and mudroom ideas, if you happen to have one of those as well) are those tailored to a family’s specific organizational needs. Do you need space for a stroller? What about a bike – or five? Does your brood love ball games? You’ll want to designate entryway storage ideas accordingly, perhaps organize your entryway closet to cater for helmets and hockey sticks alongside your typical coat and shoe storage ideas… you get the idea.   

2. Declutter and prioritize

Dedicating prime storage space to only the items your family is currently using regularly will not only make life easier but keep your entryway tidier in general – the less rummaging around you have to do, the neater it will stay. 

Professional organizer and childcare expert Kathryn Lord advises decluttering by season. ‘Audit how many shoes and coats are out regularly and put out-of-season items somewhere else. Switch up the wooly hats for summer caps and the lip balm for sun cream as it gets warmer’. Whilst you’re at it, take the opportunity to organize children’s clothes. ‘Get your children to try on last year’s winter/summer gear. If it still fits, don’t buy new – simple’, she adds.   

Once you’ve decluttered, go through what’s left and organize it into categories to suit your family’s requirements. Keep them as generic as possible to avoid confusion; ‘wet weather gear’, ‘school work’, ‘sports equipment’, ‘stroller essentials’, and so on. 

3. Get as much as you can up off the floor

Whether you’re organizing a small entryway or not, keeping floors clear so everyone can move around freely is essential. It also makes it much easier to clean an entryway, something you’ll be glad of when winter rolls around! Bypass bulky storage solutions in favor of wall-mounted options. 

Cubbies are great for keeping post, letters, and kid’s school bags close to hand, while shelving lined with clear-lidded boxes (like these, from Amazon) is useful for containing gloves, scarves, hats, and other smaller items. If you’ve got a hallway closet, consider back-of-the-door storage too. 

Whilst we’re on the subject of clear floors, remember to position a doormat by the front door – the last thing you want is muddy footprints through the house!

4. Encourage independence with kid-friendly storage options

Whether it’s putting on their coat in the morning or gathering and packing up their school books, giving your children the opportunity to start doing things for themselves can make a huge difference to their confidence, plus makes your life easier, too. 

With that in mind, approach your entryway through the eyes of a child and adjust your storage options accordingly. Ensure all their belongings are easily accessible; low-mounted hooks for organizing coats the wall, open storage baskets on the floor for dropping shoes into, accessible cubby-storage for mittens, scarves and school admin, and so on. 

5. Keep systems simple

You’re always going to face resistance from children when it comes to tidiness, regardless of what room you’re organizing, but keeping systems easy to follow should help lessen it a little. The fewer steps there are, the more likely they are to stick to it, too. 

'Rushing is always going to feel stressful whether you’re well-organized or not, so encourage children to sort as much as they can the night before and leave it in the entryway, ready to go. This gives them autonomy and allows you to take a more relaxed and leisurely approach in the mornings – a much better start to the day all round’, says Kathryn Lord. 

Remember, patience is key, particularly with younger children. Leave enough time in the mornings to support them through the ‘getting out of the door’ routine, and be ready with gentle reminders. It won’t happen overnight, but eventually, those good habits will start to stick. 

6. Label everything

You may know exactly where everything goes, but your children don’t. And if they do, they’re likely to forget pretty quickly. With multiple people using the same space, labeling is important. 

'For the little ones, decoding storage becomes a game. Labels or pictures turn it into an adventure, making it fun and easy for them to find their stuff. It’s not just about organization; it’s about creating a system that works for the whole family', says Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning. 

7. Set aside space for shoes – and putting them on

Instead of shoe storage that caters for your child’s entire footwear collection, opt for a single rack, basket or shelf to hold only those relevant for the season; school/gym/dance shoes during term time, sandals in summer, wellies in winter, trainers year-round etc. 

It’ll take up less space, and the less your children have to rifle through, the easier they are to find. Plus, it makes decision-making a lot quicker (all those with stubborn toddlers rejoice).

‘If you’ve got the space, a stylish ottoman bench is a great addition to entryway ideas, but I find my small, upcycled trunk to be a more practical entryway furniture idea with kids around. I use it to store out-of-season items, they use it to sit and put their shoes on – better there than slap-bang in the middle of the floor! Plus I don't mind if it gets a bit muddy’, says Lucy Searle, Global Editor in Chief, Homes & Gardens. 

8. Establish drop zones

Amidst the chaos of shoes and coats coming off, it’s easy to lose track of what belongs to whom, so give each child their own basket or cubby that they can drop things into the minute they walk through the door. When things are calmer, encourage them to go back and sort through it properly, putting things back in their rightful place. 

‘It’s not just kids that need a designated drop zone – if you can’t find your car keys, no one’s getting anywhere on time. Minimize time wasted searching by setting aside space for grown-up essentials, ideally somewhere up high, out of children’s reach. Try a wall-hung organizer; this one from Target.

9. Create a family control center

From playdates and school pickups to meetings and meals out, busy family schedules can be a mission to manage. One of the things the most organized people have in their entryways is a ‘family command center’, to help children (and yourself) keep on top of what they need and when. 

A combination of a pinboard, dry-erase calendar and wall-mounted baskets works well. Use the pinboard for lists and memos, the calendar for weekly schedules and reminders and the baskets for incoming mail and paper admin. 

FAQs

Successfully organizing an entryway with kids in mind reaps big rewards. We’re not just talking in terms of your home (although a neat, tidy and clutter-free space is always a win), but your whole lifestyle. Leaving the house calm and relaxed, and returning to a neat and tidy space will do wonders for your mood, and your little ones are learning good habits in the process, too. 

Interior design trends are of course key to ensuring styles develop and new exciting looks come in, however, they do have a tendency to move quickly. Some do stick and become classics, rather than trends but if you want to design a home that never dates, the trick is to not be too trend led, lean into the looks you love and know you will love for years. 

There's a lot of talk about transitional style right now, and while it's kind of becoming a trend in its own right, the premise of mixing old and new, current and classic is at the center of designing any entryway that's going to feel chic and characterful no matter how trends change. So when designing a timeless entryway, this approach is at the forefront. Decorate in a way that reflects your style, your personality, your home, and of course bring in trends as small, no-committal updates, but otherwise keep to the classic that you know and love. 

How to design a timeless entryway

Entryways tend to be transitional rooms, everyone sees them and yet you don't really spend too much time in them, so they can be neglected when it comes to design. However, curating an entryway that can withstand the ever-changing interior design trends gives the best impression of the rest of your home, and it's a low-maintenance approach too, get it right now and you won't have to spend money and energy, and updating it every year to keep up with new styles.

1. Start by combining aesthetics and practicality

An entryway needs to get that balance between form and function. It's never a huge space and you usually have to fit in quite a lot of entryway storage so there's not a ton of room for decor. Ensuring your entry is timeless means planning in these practical sides from the beginning. 

'Designing a timeless entryway involves combining functionality and aesthetic appeal in a way that withstands the passing trends,' explains designer Jennifer Davis. 'We start by choosing a neutral color palette that is sophisticated and flexible, allowing accents and décor to effortlessly evolve over time. Start with classic elements such as a well-crafted console table or a statement mirror to anchor the space. Opt for quality materials like wood, stone, or metals that wear gracefully.'

'A timeless entryway design is all about a nuanced blend of practical pieces and decorative ones,' agrees Kathy Kuo. 'You want to make sure that your entryway features plenty of storage for shoes and coats so consider investing in a nice shoe rack or shelf or a storage bench, as well as some thoughtfully chosen coat hooks. I recommend a console table that echoes the design style of the rest of your home. A console table is great because you can mix and match small decor pieces to make it shine during any season.'

2. Design an entryway that reflects your personality

'Designing a timeless entryway can be a delightful blend of aesthetics and personal memories. Start with your favorite color palette, offering a contrasting base you can easily refresh over the years with changing entryway trends,' explains designer Kati Curtis. 

'Use your travel mementos to add a personal touch: a vibrant handwoven rug from Mexico, for example, can infuse color and texture. A hand-carved wooden bench from your trip to Bali provides practical seating while also serving as a conversation starter. Complement these elements with statement art or a beautiful mirror, creating a gallery wall that tells your unique journey. Balance the color and travel elements with simple, sleek lines in furnishings to maintain a timeless appeal.'

3. Stick with a simple color and material scheme

'A curated and concise color and material palette is a simple way of creating a timeless entryway,' suggests Tom Rutt, Founder, TR Studio. 'Choose a contemporary neutral such as an elegant grey, a warm sandy hue, or a bolder shade such as an inky blue for an interior canvas to build upon. Next layer natural materials in mixed timbers, tones and textures across flooring, entryway furniture, lighting, and accessories and you’ll easily achieve an entryway that exudes everyday elegance.'

Designer Bethany Adams agrees that the best approach to creating a space that never dates is to stick to a simple, paired-back entryway color scheme. 'Sticking to classic colors like black, white, or beige is the first step in a timeless entryway.  Follow that up with classic furnishings - a console to drop mail and keys, a chic umbrella holder, etc. - and the requisite large "last look" mirror and you have a recipe for timeless entry.'

4. Transcend the trends with high-quality timeless pieces

'Craft a timeless entryway by investing in classic, high-quality pieces that transcend trends, such as a well-crafted console or foyer table and statement entryway lighting,' says designer Marie Flanigan. 

'Choose a neutral color palette with subtle variations allowing key design elements to shine and adapt to evolving styles. If starting from scratch, be sure to consider architectural elements and details, like flooring patterns and trim work, to elevate the space. Infuse warmth and character through carefully selected accessories, like a timeless area rug, curated artwork, and florals, to evoke a sense of welcoming sophistication that ages beautifully.'

5. Create the right lighting scheme

Entryway lighting is key to a timeless space, not only with the fixtures you choose but the ambiance that the lighting creates. Of course, you need plenty of light as it is firstly a practical space, but that needn't mean you can bring in softer, warmer accent lighting too that will ensure a welcoming feel.

'Lighting plays a pivotal role, so blend natural light with classic fixtures to create a welcoming ambiance. Lastly, personal touches, like artwork or an antique umbrella stand, infuse character while maintaining a sense of timelessness.' suggests Jennifer. And Kathy agrees, adding, 'Take time and care in selecting a stylish light fixture that will really set the tone for the rest of your home, and if you have space.'

Designing a timeless entryway means this space will always feel current. It's a room that needs to transcend trends as there's not much opportunity for switching up decor as the trends change so the base of the space - the colors, furniture, and lighting - you choose all need to have longevity. 

Smooth, tranquil, and adaptable, there are many reasons why a beige entryway can make a fine choice. That said, unless you have been successfully dressing your home in neutrals your entire life, decorating with beige often feels like it must be so easy to do, that it shouldn't be done at all for it errs on the side of boring. 

When, in fact, there is much more to decorating with beige than meets the discerning eye, and getting it right can bring your home into its own, providing an exceptional amount of design detail. 

Some rooms could arguably be more beige than others. A beige living room, for example, is not out of the ordinary – nor is a modern beige bathroom for that matter – but interior feinds know that taking pride in the appearance of our homes, and how they make us feel from the moment we set foot in the door, is incredibly rewarding. While beige will do, a bland beige color scheme will not. And if a beige entryway is to intrigue guests, it is going to have to work hard, but be quite subtle about it.

8 beige entryways that are far from boring

With that said, beige has been a key color to watch for the past few years, often coined as the new gray, this color and all of its hues can work its magic in many spaces, giving calm and sophisticated appeal.

'I called it a year ago, but beige is back!' exclaims Joshua Smith, Principal and Founder of Joshua Smith Inc. 'Beige is a “catch-all” kind of name with so many variations.' Whether your home is already proudly hosting all the beige bedroom ideas or only just letting it accent the color scheme in your home, let these looks inspire you to bring all of the versatility of beige to your entryway.

1. Keep beige tactile with texture

To work beige effortlessly, texture is essential says Kara Smith, founder and principal of KES Studios. Layering soft furnishings like entryway rugs, and accessories in contrasting finishes and interesting patterns will give beige a look that is far from plain or predictable. 'A chunky woven area rug, and furniture in a combination of materials like wood, metal, and stone and a collection of pillows in a variety of materials like raffia or Kuba cloth, leather, faux Sherpa, or fur all provide layers that add interest,' notes Smith. 

2. Color drench to tap into the expanse

Beige is inoffensive and adaptable by nature, so bringing it onto all four walls can create an expansive and uplifting canvas, that is ripe for adding interest elsewhere to enhance the space. 'Beige is a wonderful choice of color for an entry in almost any scenario, large and small spaces alike,' says Jessica Shaw. 'With the right color, it can instantly provide a mood of calmness and serenity. I love Benjamin Moore CALM OC-22. This is a great choice for drenching a small space that may not receive any natural light.'

'For more color and a warmer hue, Muslin OC-12 is a winner,' continues Shaw. 

3. Sculpt beige with natural elements

Indoor trees and plants will add interest and serenity to every entryway, and by deepening the chosen color scheme, natural elements can soften, or even add definition to a space. With a beige entryway that might want a linear contrast to a mix of soft hues, gather branches in vases, add a Mother in Law's tongue, or employ a money tree for a dose of the tropics.

'A sculptural or unique specimen tree or plant in a textured stone planter provides neutral color, texture and airiness,' continues Smith.  If you are a very busy household, easy plants that will not want too much attention may be wise to ensure your entryway remains polished-looking, and your indoor greenery in good spirits.

4. Offset beige with white, and warm hues

For both subtle, and less subtle defining elements, combine the lightest of hues with beige. The unexpected contrast will lift beige and bring its natural cozy character to the forefront of your design scheme in a way that beautifully defines an entryway space. 'Brightening with white is never out of style,' notes Shaw.

'Adding a pop of slightly off-white brings freshness to beiges, and just a touch of black helps to ground a space, while still maintaining a sophisticated, monochromatic look,' agrees Kara Smith. Weave these accents in via accessories like vases for greenery, or even in frames and artwork. This will bring a sense of cohesiveness and most importantly, avoid a washout finish.

Joshua Smith notes how tapping into a variety of shades can bring a relaxing finish to a beige entryway scheme. 'There’s a warm to the color beige that can help ground our nervous system, which is exactly the type of response we want when first entering our homes,'

'It also works with every color; I often work with neutral palettes when creating sanctuary vibes for a space. The key to keeping an entryway interesting is to bring in the gray, greige, beige, and creams. I also love to pair it with darker brown colors for a contrast that's still warm.'

5. Accent beige with black for an elegant finish

Particularly if you fall for modern entryway ideas, accenting beige with black will bring elegance and delight to your home. 

Shaw notes how beige and black can look effortlessly stylish and sophisticated: 'When mixed with black, in particular black lacquer, you can achieve a classy and classic style.' This look definitely touches on warm minimalism – a key interior trend for 2024 and no doubt beyond.

'Given its neutrality - you can add personal flair and originality by accenting almost any color with beige, just be mindful as to your beige's color temperature/family (warm or cool) when selecting your accent color(s).'

6. Let artwork bring drama and dimension

Be it a small frame or a three-dimensional object atop your favorite console, statement artwork will add a personal element and bring a statement to beige colorways in an entryway, particularly if your space is expansive.

'Showcase a vibrantly colored or dimensional piece of art or a dramatic sculpture to add interest and make a statement,' recommends Smith. Should your entryway be on the small side, use the walls and be clever with entry table decor, choosing slimline but nonetheless impactful pieces to lift a beige backdrop. This look could easily spill into the hallway to continue a beige theme throughout the home.

7. Enhance light beige levels with reflective elements

Designers have used mirrors to make spaces appear larger for years, and reflective elements can work particularly well in a beige entryway to add an interesting dimension to a soft color scheme. Consider placing mirrors unexpectedly to reflect interesting objects, like vases, sculptural plants, and other static elements. Employing more than one mirror and reflective finishes on pots and furnishings will bounce natural light around the room, adding vast dimension and drenching your entryway in unique personality.

8. Layer lighting for dramatic effect

You may be blessed with an entryway that is flooded with natural light, but even still, in a beige entryway, accent lighting can add a little more charm and warmth. Combine classic hallway lighting fixtures with wall sconces, console table lamps and more that will lift the space with sculptural pops of interest, not to mention welcoming light.

FAQ

Combine beige with all of its hues and punctuate this interesting color with dark accents or even lighter artistic pieces for the most elegant of entryways.

Almost everything we use in our homes affects the energy of our spaces – from the furniture to the colors on the walls, so how do you get the color right in your entryway?

Although it might seem like a small detail, getting the best entryway colors for Feng Shui can make all the difference to the energy throughout your home. After all, it is not just guests you invite in when you open that door, but chi too, Feng Shui professionals believe. 

These are the colors designers and Feng Shui experts prefer for good entryway Feng Shui, and how the direction of your home can make a world of difference.  

The best entryway color for Feng Shui

When picking out a paint color to make an entryway inviting, it's essential to pick tones that contribute to the flow of positive energy to prevent stagnant and negative chi from bringing bad fortune to your home. The easiest way to avoid Feng Shui entryway mistakes is to pick a color based on the direction of your front door, suggests Jacky Chou, principal designer and founder of Archute:

‘Different colors can enhance or weaken the flow of chi, or life force, into your home, depending on the direction your door faces,’ he begins. ‘The entryway is the first impression of your home, so it has a big impact on the energy and mood of your space. That's why choosing the right colors for your entryway Feng Shui is so important.’

1. North-facing entryways

North-facing areas of your home are often associated with the Feng Shui wealth corner, meaning decorating entryways with colors associated with the abundant water element is a great way to channel luck with prosperity.

Jacky Chou, interior designer, explains that decorating with blacks and browns can create a sense of depth and mystery while also enhancing your opportunities and success. 

‘Feel free to use them in frames, sculptures, baskets, or clocks to add some sophistication and style to your entryway,’ he suggests.

2. East-facing entryways

On the Feng Shui energy map, the east is associated with health, meaning that painting with the most relaxing colors is best. Niklas Göke, certified life and habit coach, and founder of Four Minute Books prefers using greens and earthy tones to create a grounded vibe. 

It is not just your entryway paint ideas that you can play around with, either, he adds. Consider bringing the color in through natural elements such as Feng Shui plants, or a well cared for painted front door to help welcome positive energy in. 

3. West-facing entryways

Representing family, communication, and clarity, a west-facing entryway is best painted in colors that channel the metal element, such as cool blues and purples, says Jacky Chou, interior designer. These will help to calm and balance the energy in your home for good Feng Shui in your home and inspire you to express yourself, he explains. 

‘You can use these colors in mirrors, lamps, vases, or wall art for some sparkle and elegance in your entryway.’

4. South-facing entryways

South-facing entries require much bolder paint choices, with warm-toned colors like red and yellow – perfect for energizing the fire element, associated with luck, prosperity, and growth. 

Decorating with red and decorating with orange may not be for everyone, however, so Jacky Chou suggests adding it in accents for a similar effect without overwhelming the space.

‘For implementation, you can paint your door or walls in these colors or use accessories like rugs, pillows, or art for pops of color.’

FAQs

These simple decor and paint tips will make your entryway feel welcoming, both to you and good energy. Just be sure to also consider Feng Shui front door colors to ensure you do not block good energy at the door.  

Your entryway is the first thing a guest sees, so it is important to get it right – especially during the holidays when an almost constant flow of guests goes through your home.

Preparing an entryway for Christmas guests may seem unnecessary at first, but giving guests space to drop bags and coats, gifts, and sit down to remove and put on shoes is a great way to make them feel welcome in your space – no matter if it’s popping in for a quick cup of coffee, or coming to spend the night. 

These are the six things professional designers do to prepare an entryway for Christmas guests, and why even the smallest detail matters. 

How to prepare an entryway for Christmas guests

When making an entryway inviting, every detail counts – from your entryway storage to your Christmas hallway decorations. 

Start by cleaning your entryway and decluttering storage to give you a good foundation to decorate with and make a good first impression. Then you can work on your Christmas decor.  

1. Don’t clutter the floor

You want to make an entryway look cozy, but you don't want it to be cluttered to the point where you can't move, reminds Nicole Saunders, interior designer and founder of The Design Build Vault.

‘Go for a bold but simple color palette and add some holiday accents like seasonal wreaths, lights, or a small Christmas tree. But don't overdo it,’ she urges. ‘Keep the space functional by leaving enough room for guests to leave their shoes and coats.’

2. Make an impact with festive decor

Your entryway is both the first and last impression guests have of your home, so the decor you use is essential to setting the tone for your festivities, says luxury florist Ronny Colbie.

He recommends using Christmas foliage to make a lasting impression, hanging either large statement Christmas wreaths or Christmas garlands, to your door or Christmas stair decor. ‘Christmas decorating for me to create impact is all about abundance. Don’t have too many mixes of florals, it’s best to keep to a few different pines, berries, and flowers, but plenty of them,’ Ronnie suggests. 

‘Using locally sourced foliage and decoration will always create a refined look. Ilex berries are a great way to add drama to any archway, wreath, or garland, in abundance they will be admired by anyone in sight this Christmas.’ 

3. Layer lighting for a welcoming glow

Entryway lighting is important no matter the time of year to help your family and guests see what they are doing when getting ready to come in or leave, but it is especially important at Christmas when soft lighting and candles can set the perfect cozy tone for your home. Nicole Saunders, interior designer, suggests layering a few different types of lights, such as functional lamps with Christmas lights, to help nail the effect.

4. Set the scene with music and fragrance

Making a home smell good for Christmas is a great way to give your home a welcoming feel during the festive season – and is sure to have your guests wanting to come back year after year.

Interior designer and founder of studio Arsight, Artem Kropovinsky, suggests fragrance layering with festive scents through simmer pots for fall and winter, freshly baked goods, and the best candles to help greet guests with a pleasant aroma and stop bad cooking smells from dinner.

It also helps to add some festive music to the equation too, he adds. Having some soft holiday music or a radio playing in the entry will instantly set the scene for an enjoyable night in.

5. Pick out storage furniture to make space

It is not just festive additions you need to make for a functional entryway for Christmas guests. A little more boringly (but arguably more essentially) you also need to ensure you have plenty of entryway furniture to help keep guests' bags and belongings out of the way – especially if they are staying more than one night. 

Arpit Jain, interior designer at McLine Studios, recommends adding bench seating to help keep your guests comfortable while keeping your entryway organized.  

6. Create obvious space for hanging coats and storing shoes

You don't have to do all the hard work over the festive period – avoid a common entryway storage mistake by keeping guest storage out of closets and make some obvious drop zones for guests to leave gift bags, coats, and wet shoes. This will help them keep your home neat without you running after them, suggests Kim Corey, professional home organizer and founder of Finely Sorted Organizing.

‘Let's make it easy and fast to enter and exit by skipping the hangers and closet work. Enabling the guests to do the hanging of their frocks is best.

‘Be sure you have places for them to set their snowy wet boots and have slippers they can use as well to avoid the travesty of wet and muddy boots on clean floors and carpets – and entryway mat goes a long way to help with this too,’ she adds.

FAQs

Once you have prepared your entryway for Christmas guests, it is time to turn to the other important gathering spots, such as getting a kitchen ready for hosting and preparing a guest room for Christmas to create a home that is guest-ready for the holiday season. 

Updating a room without buying anything new is far easier than you think. And in fact, of all the rooms in the home, the entryway is perhaps the easiest to update as it's usually one of the smallest areas and in terms of decor and furniture there's not an infinite amount of room to play with, meaning small changes make a big difference. 

But how can you make these big differences without actually buying anything new? By thinking slightly out of the box there are plenty of ways to refresh a space and not have to invest in brand new pieces. Plus, it's the perfect time of year to put some effort into your entryway ideas as the holiday season is when this often ignored space sees the most screen time.

We asked designers for their top tips on how to refresh an entryway with just the space and pieces you already own.  

5 ways to update your entryway without buying anything new

No cheating here, all these ideas really can be achieved without spending any money. What most of them come down to is working with what you have got (or what you can get for free). Shopping your own home and switching pieces around can have a huge effect and a piece you have had in the same space for decades can look totally different when you bring it into a new room. 

1. Have a declutter and a deep clean

Sorry, it's not glamorous, but decluttering an entryway before you start having a refresh is going to make all the difference. And it's totally free, just takes your time and patience. 

'Refreshing your entryway without purchasing anything new can be an inventive endeavor, for often an overlooked space. Begin by decluttering and reorganizing the area. Remove unnecessary items like old shoes, out-of-season coats, or junk that may have accumulated over time.' explains designer Jennifer Davis. 

'Rearrange existing entryway furniture, such as benches or consoles, to create a more functional entryway layout. Consider repurposing items from other areas of your home to freshen up the space, like artwork or a potted plant.  Lastly, never underestimate the power of a good deep cleaning to freshen up the space.'

2. Switch around the lighting

'Switching up the decorative lighting in your entryway is an easy and impactful way to create a new look without spending any money.' says Jennifer Jones, principal designer at Niche Interiors. 

'Consider bringing in a table lamp from another room to add height and ambiance. No extra lamp lying around? Add a tall vase with branches or dried florals and balance the other side of the table with a stack of coffee table books with a decorative bowl or tray on top.'

Lighting is one of those seemingly small switches that can make a huge difference. And it's not just the style of the entryway lighting but the color and tone too. Even just changing out your bulbs for something warmer can make your space feel cozier and more welcoming, which is especially important at this time of year. 

3. Forage for flowers and folliage

Adding a vase of beautiful flowers or foliage to your entryway always gives it a lift and while going out and buying a bunch can be an inexpensive way to update your space, you can do it for free if you can forage for your bunch. 

'The easiest way to do this is to add a vase of fresh flowers every week by the door.  Or better yet, a seasonal branch!  It'll last longer and you can forage it from outside.' suggests designer Bethany Adams. 

Don't be too precious about what you are trying to find. Forraged pieces always look lovely when you get them home and putting a bit of time into displaying them in a nice vase, and as Bethany suggests, over the holidays you can definitely get away with just some beautiful branches and greenery if flowers aren't an option. 

4. Interchange books from around your home

If you have a surface in your entryway, like a side table or a shelf, create little vignettes in that space that you can switch out to refresh your space. Decorating with books is great for this because they make for such characterful decor and you can move them around your rooms for an instant update. 

'One fun trick that I use in my own home is to take stock of all of my decorative elements in my entryway console table, on my bookshelves, and on my coffee table and consider all of those interchangeable. It's amazing how the candle that's been on your coffee table for months and a stack of art books poached from your bookshelf can take on a whole new look when paired together in your entryway.' suggests designer Kathy Kuo. 

5. Decorate with meaningful pieces you already own

'Refreshing your entryway doesn't necessarily require a shopping spree. There are many ways to revitalize this space using items you already own. For example, a vintage mirror can serve as a stunning focal point, adding depth and light to a narrow hallway.' explains designer Kati Curtis. 

'Hanging a family heirloom art piece on the walls introduces a personal touch, honoring your lineage while adding visual interest. You can also showcase your favorite travel finds - be it an exotic tapestry, handmade pottery, or a unique sculpture. By strategically arranging these items, you can create a welcoming and character-filled entryway that tells your personal story.

See, there are plenty of very simple ways to update your entryway without buying anything new. And these tips definitely work for other rooms too so reapply if you want to update your living room without spending anything, or your bedroom, or even your kitchen. 

Since the entryway is the first impression guests receive upon entering your home, you will no doubt want this space to set a welcoming feel while looking stylish to reflect the decor of the rest of your home. 

'An entryway is the opening act for your home,' says Victoria Holly, Principal and Founder of Los Angeles-based Victoria Holly Interiors. 'This space shouldn’t be forgotten but instead crafted with striking elements for a cozy welcome.'

When designing an entryway, you may also want to consider how you can elevate the space to make it feel more luxurious, aiding in it becoming an inviting space for not only guests but your household each day. 

How to make an entryway feel more luxurious

Here, we talk through some really simple ideas to help make your inviting entryway feel and look more luxurious, whilst also ensuring it remains a highly practical space that's designed for the heavy footfall it no doubt receives each day.

Whether you're just starting out with designing your entryway and are deciding on bigger decorating decisions such as the flooring, or you are looking for some simple and easy decor updates to refresh your entryway, these ideas will no doubt give you some inspiration. 

1. Opt for statement tiled flooring

'One design choice that consistently stands out is a bold and gorgeous marble floor tile, which can instantly set the tone for the entire space,' advises Victoria Holly. While this is a bigger decorating decision, if you're in the process of choosing entryway floor ideas, statement tiles will no doubt set the tone to one of luxury. Opting for tiled flooring also creates an incredibly timeless look, so it will remain looking stylish for years to come. 

There are endless ways of decorating with flooring tiles, but for the entryway, you could opt for a border to create a traditional look, as Victoria suggests: 'To truly define your entryway, add a marble 4-inch border to help make your entryway tile look even more elegant and the placement even more thoughtful.'

2. Decorate with mirrors

Not only a practical decor idea, decorating with mirrors in an entryway can also reflect light to make the space feel more open, whilst creating a feeling of grandeur by opting for a statement or vintage-inspired design. 

'A mirror allows for the practicality of checking yourself before you head out, but it also helps to open up the space. An entryway is the perfect opportunity to include a unique statement mirror that you might not use in a more practical place such as a bathroom. Especially choosing an asymmetrical mirror or bold material or color is the perfect pop for an entrance,' explains Victoria Holly.

3. Set an ambience with accent lighting

Lighting is an incredibly important design choice throughout the home, including in the entryway. In the evenings, having ambient lighting will create a cozy feel which promotes an elegant look, which is important if you want the space to feel more luxurious. 

'A lot of homeowners may have an entryway light that is recessed, but getting a converter kit and putting in a flush mount light or pendant light is a much better option,' says Victoria Holly. 'When you opt for a statement light, you’re adding in another dramatic statement and something unexpected. A distinctive fixture can instantly elevate the ambiance, casting a warm and welcoming glow.'

Melissa Read, Creative Director at Studio Burntwood also recommends entryway lighting ideas to create a luxurious feeling, saying: 'Well-placed and balanced lighting can make all the difference in creating a luxurious entryway. I would recommend installing wall lights on either side of an oversized mirror to achieve this. Wall lights will provide a soft and warm glow, which is perfect for creating an inviting atmosphere.'

4. Make the ceiling a focal point

'Sometimes the ceiling is the last to be considered, but it can truly uplevel a space, especially in an entryway where it creates a dramatic sense of arrival and hints at the spirit of the rest of the home,' explains Joshua Smith, Principal of Joshua Smith Inc. 

While this is a decorating idea that relies on the existing architectural features of your home, Joshua recommends maximizing the impact of these classical features to create an inviting feel to the entryway: 'Adding coffered detailing can add immense architectural interest and make the space feel cozier due to its enveloping nature. Instead of simply painting the insets of the coffered areas, utilize a dose of patterned wallpaper to create a greater "wow" factor.'

5. Layer tactile items

To help an entryway feel inviting; a key part of creating a feeling of luxury, it's all about layering different tactile elements to give the space depth and interest. 'Having tactile surfaces will make an entryway look more luxurious,' observes Luis Carmona, owner at VERDE Interior Design.

'A textured floor runner, a wooden console table paired with a metal mirror all add a sense of touch to the space,' he continues. 'Functionality is key to a space feeling more luxe.' While there are many different ways to achieve this look, take inspiration from Luis and consider adding a floor runner to achieve a layered look, or add decorative and practical items to a console table to create a '"lived-in" feel.

6. Integrate storage for an uncluttered look

Having an entryway that feels luxurious is not just about adding decor items; it's as much about ensuring the space is designed with practicality in mind. Considering storage ideas in the entryway will allow items to be easily stored out of sight, avoiding a cluttered look which is essential if you're aiming for a luxe feel.

'First impressions are so important and ensuring that the entrance to your home is clear and tidy might seem like a simple thing but as every parent knows, this is much easier said than done,' explains interior designer Naomi Astley Clarke. 'My trick is to make it as easy as possible by creating throw-in storage – think tall cupboards and pull-out drawers under benches – for coats, bags, kids' sports equipment, and everything in between. If nothing else it makes the last minute clear up before guests arrive that bit quicker to manage.'

7. Don't forget to add a fresh scent

Ensuring your entryway smells fresh is an essential part of creating a luxurious feel. Whether you prefer the scent of fresh flowers or a scented candle in the evening for a cozy feel, there are lots of ways to add lovely-smelling scents. 'Scents play a large role in what one automatically thinks when they walk into a space,' explains Luis Carmona. 'Having a lighted scented candle or a vase with fresh eucalyptus on a console table will create a pleasant aroma upon entry.'

Below you can shop one of our current favorite best candles, perfect for creating a warming entryway this winter. 

There are so many ways to create a feeling of luxury in an entryway, from opting for opulent floor tiles to adding smaller decor items such as scented candles. It's important to keep your design style front of mind, however, to ensure the feel of your entryway is in keeping with the rest of your home's decor. And, as interior designer Marzia Dainelli of Dainelli Studio explains below, make sure you don't overwhelm the decor in the entryway to avoid making entryway mistakes. 

'Be careful not to mix too many textures and colors. Remember that the balance between elements is crucial. Even if you want the entrance hall to convey luxury, avoid excessive accumulation of ornaments,' explains Marzia. 

My entryway is a catalyst for chaos. With the front door opening almost instantly into my dining room, picking out some organizers to contain my boots and coats was a must when I first moved in.

Rushing to organize an entryway meant I picked up some storage pieces that I thought would do the trick – but they quickly contributed to the piles of clutter and did very little to keep the area neat when I really started living in the space.

Here are the three organizers I regret buying for my entryway, and what I chose to replace them with. 

Organizers I regret picking for my entryway

Entryway storage has to be practical if you want to make leaving the house and coming home as stress-free as possible. These three organizers just didn’t do the trick – here’s why.

1. Open shoe rack

When organizing shoes, I initially tried using an open shoe rack for stacking up both mine and my partner's shoes and boots beneath my coat hooks. The logic behind this was the shoes would be easy to grab on the way out of the house, but also localized in one spot. Neither of these goals became a reality.

The open rack meant that shoes fell around frequently when I was reaching for something else – especially when we continued to add to our shoe collections and we ran out of space. Growing collections also meant that shoes were scattered around my dining room entry point, even spreading back upstairs into the bedroom.

Finally, when I lost my tether with the mess, I decided to upgrade to a slimline shoe wall cabinet, much like this from Amazon, to contain, and most importantly conceal, all of my shoes and I wish I had opted for this the first time around instead.  

2. A sideboard that only had shelves

Given that I was trying to combine entryway and dining room storage in one spot, a sideboard became a must to hide away all sorts of winter clothing like hats and scarves alongside tableware. I chose a piece that had large cabinet doors with lots of shelving for outward aesthetics, however, the shelving and lack of drawers or dividers meant that everything became messy and disorganized very quickly. 

Although I wish I had picked a piece with more variation in storage opinions, I was not going to buy a whole new sideboard to fix this oversight. Instead, I turned to shelf dividers like these from The Container Store, and some standalone shelving drawers to reassert order. 

3. A chair without storage

I admit that the chair I put in my small entryway to offer somewhere to sit and put on shoes wasn’t a storage idea – but that is why I regretted it. Originally, I popped a chair I hadn’t found another home for by my front door as a quick set-down point, but it quickly became a spot to drop bags and coats and leave them there until the messy pile nearly fell off. 

One of the best decluttering lessons I have learned from talking to organizers every day is that a statement piece of storage furniture is essential – especially for small entryway storage.

The chair was quickly replaced with a storage bench perfect for perching to put on shoes, and for hiding extra boots and out-of-season coats out of sight. 

FAQs

One of the best ways to avoid common entryway storage mistakes like the ones I made is to not rush into picking out storage products until you have used the space and worked out what you need it to offer you. It is okay to leave things a little disorganized at first, or even make use of some storage pieces you already have until you work out what will work perfectly. This will help to reduce stress, and waste, and help you to save money at home too.

Entryways act as the gateway into your home, and when they are filled with light they can create a welcoming and inviting presence for you and your guests. As your entryway strikes a first impression of your home, it is important to not use the space as a drop zone or dumping ground for your items, so your entryway must be both practical and stylish.

When designing or updating a small entryway lacking in light, you should seek ways to increase natural light. This will make your entryway feel more like a key part of the home as opposed to just a passageway between the front porch and living space.

Enhancing natural light levels in an entryway, specifically in small, dark spaces, can come from many different areas, not only the original light source but also how the natural light floods and bounces within the room. Our experts have explored the five best methods for you to start when maximizing entryway natural light levels.

How to enhance natural light levels in a small dark entryway 

There is not only one way to increase natural light to your entryway. A layered approach will allow you to benefit from a multitude of methods and bring depth and substance to your entryway. 

1. Use clever lighting fixtures

Enhancing natural light doesn't mean solely relying on sunlight. Incorporating strategic artificial entryway lighting can also help brighten a small, dark entryway. Place table lamps or floor lamps near corners or areas lacking natural light to fill in any gaps. Ensure that the light fixtures have a warm, white light tone to mimic natural daylight as closely as possible.

According to interior designer Ariella Duker, incorporating fanlights above the front door and glass sidelights around it are excellent ways to allow natural daylight to flood into dark spaces without compromising privacy.

Consider decorative pendant lights or chandeliers, like this chandelier from Wayfair, that can serve as beautiful focal points. Moreover, wall sconces with warm, ambient lighting can create a cozy ambiance during the evening hours. 

2. Declutter and reconfigure furnishings

One of the key rules you should employ to enhance the natural light is to simply declutter the entryway, unblocking any natural light sources.

Eileen Roth, organizing expert, founder of Everything in its Place, and author of Organizing for Dummies, available at Amazon, suggests that you start by removing all of your items and furniture out of your entryway so that you can clearly see the areas that natural light floods in through your light sources such as windows and doors. 

Consider rearranging or removing any obstacles that may be hindering the flow of light into the space. By maximizing the openness and minimizing visual obstructions, you can allow more light to penetrate the entryway, creating a brighter atmosphere.

3. Optimize mirror placements

Enhancing natural light in a small, dim entryway is a fundamental aspect of creating an inviting space. A strategic approach involves the placement of mirrors, which can effectively amplify available light sources. When considering optimal mirror placement, it's essential to adhere to the following techniques for the best outcomes.

‘To maximize the brightening effect of mirrors, position them directly across from your entryway's primary light source,’ says home improvement expert Tommy Mello. ‘Whether it's a well-placed window or a glass door, this positioning ensures that light is not only reflected but also dispersed uniformly throughout the entryway.’

The mirrored surface acts as a virtual portal, redirecting and diffusing natural light, illuminating the space and creating an atmosphere of spaciousness and warmth. We like this Gleaming Primrose Mirror from Anthropologie which is available in a wide range of sizes for a small entryway. An excellent trick is to place a mirror on the wall so that it reflects a chandelier, creating the illusion of two, rather than one beautiful light fixtures.

4. Try mirrored furniture

As well as strategically placing mirrors, try incorporating mirrored furniture pieces, such as consoles, cabinets, or even decorative wall mirrors, as they serve a dual purpose in enhancing light and promoting the aesthetic of the entryway. These reflective surfaces not only brighten the space but also create an illusion of expanded dimensions.

Mirrored furniture, like this Fruitvale 47.2'' Console Table from Wayfair, effectively bounces light around the room, diminishing the feeling of confinement often associated with small, dark entryways. This technique harmoniously combines functionality with style, resulting in a more luminous and visually appealing entry space.

5. Install a skylight

Provided that both your budget and the structure of your home allow, installing a skylight is one of the best ways to bring natural light into any dark space, including small entryways for the ultimate transformation.

‘Skylights are essentially windows installed on the roof, allowing sunlight to directly enter your entryway from above,’ says interior designer Ana Coddington, ‘and a well-placed skylight floods the entryway with abundant natural light, eliminating shadows and creating a cheerful, inviting atmosphere.’ 

This addition not only brightens the space but also adds a touch of architectural elegance. Skylights are a popular choice for small, dark entryways as they not only provide ample natural light but also give an illusion of spaciousness by opening up the ceiling.

FAQs

By following these five rules, you can drastically improve the natural light in your small, dark entryway. Each method contributes to a brighter, more open-feeling space, with skylight installation being the standout solution for unparalleled luminosity. Say goodbye to dim entryways and welcome the uplifting effects of natural light.