First Impressions: Designing a Tidy and Stylish Entryway

First impressions are lasting impressions. That’s why creating a stylish, yet organized entryway benefits both you and your guests. Such an entryway is more than a simple doorway — it’s a transitional space from the outside world to the comfort of your home.

The entryway also offers visitors the first view of your home, so its significance is greater than its size. Your entryway should reflect your home’s style and create a single point from which all the other rooms flow.

The function

Realistically, entryways are drop zones. Car keys, purses, grocery bags and backpacks — not to mention mail, cell phones, and shoes, coats and scarves — all end up being set down in this space.

Source: Zillow Digs

Is there a closet for coats, umbrellas and hats? If not, a row of hooks can make a good stand-in, as can an old-fashioned hall tree. Baskets mounted on the wall or set on the floor can hold scarves, gloves and hats. A tall canister will keep umbrellas in one spot.

The storage

A console piece with drawers can work wonders as a charging station, and hold mail, keys, garage door remotes and dog leashes for regular walks.

Source: Zillow Digs

If you ask people to take off their shoes at the door, a chair or bench offers a good landing spot. One with storage space underneath is a good option. In tight spaces, you might look for a stool or an ottoman that can slide away under a console table.

For shoe storage, consider cubbies, under-bench storage or even a set of shelves. A simple metal tray will keep rain- and snow-soaked shoes from ruining the floors beneath.

The flow

Keep adjacent rooms in mind when designing your entryway. This space should set the stage for rooms that are immediately visible and establish the flow for the overall home. Color, furniture styling, lighting and artwork need not be identical, but they should be related.

Source: Zillow Digs

The extras

Once you’ve taken care of the necessities, add the extras that will make your entryway truly yours.

A rug will define the space, especially if the entry is part of a larger space such as a living room. A mirror can make the space seem larger, as well as allow a last-minute visual check before heading out the door.

An entryway is also a great spot for a signature piece of furniture or art, or a series of decorative pieces.

Source: Zillow Digs

Lamps will give the space a warm touch and add needed lighting. An overhead fixture can make a statement upon entry, or even serve as a different type of artwork. Plants and fresh flowers are always welcome.

When you make your entryway space uniquely yours, you’ll enjoy sharing it with all who enter.

How have you designed your entry space? We would love to see what works for you!

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