10 Small Entryway Ideas That Instantly Make Your Home More Interesting

The entryway is often the first thing people interact with when they visit your home. It can be difficult to make a major impact with a small doorway, but it’s not impossible. You can make your entrance roomier and more inviting with the right design and furniture. Sprucing up a small entryway is all about making smart use of space and adding personal touches that make a big impact. So, let’s talk about how you can transform this often-overlooked area into a welcoming, functional spot with these small entryway ideas.

Plan for Storage

First things first, define what your entryway needs to do for you. Is it mainly for storage, quick outfit checks, or maybe a cozy nook for your plants? Figuring this out helps you prioritize what goes into the space. In a small entryway, functionality is king, but that doesn’t mean sacrificing style.

Take accurate entryway measurements to determine what storage solutions will work best inside and outside this area. Measure the width and depth of the entryway and any additional wall space you can use for storage purposes. This step is where your measurements come in handy.

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A thin console table is ideal for narrow entryways and a great place for dropping keys or mail as you walk in. Choose one with drawers to hide away clutter or a lower shelf to add decorative baskets for additional storage. I’ve styled mine with a mix of practical items like a bowl for keys and a few decor pieces that bring a touch of personality to the space.

If you’re not a clutter-hider like me, a floating shelf with some wall hooks looks chic and minimalistic. There’s a great home for you coats, scarves, and bags. For floating shelves, opt for designs that complement your decor and install them at a height that’s easy to reach as you dash out the door.

Place a Rug or Welcome Mat

Enhance your small entryway by adding a rug or welcome mat that keeps the space clean and inviting. Choose rugs that complement your home’s decor and create visual interest for visitors. Opt for natural fiber rugs like jute or sisal if you have pets or kids who may track in dirt frequently. Wool rugs provide comfort underfoot and anchor furniture pieces without taking up extra floor space.

If there isn’t enough floor space, hang the rug on a wall for a unique display. Position it under a console table or inside the doorway to add a cozy texture without overcrowding the area with bulky furniture or door draft stoppers. This trick ensures easy access to other rooms while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for family members and visitors.

RELATED: How to Choose the Right Area Rug for Your Home

Include a Seating Area

Now, let’s talk about seating. In small spaces, any piece that doubles its function is a winner. For those who need serious storage solutions but have limited space, a storage bench is ideal. Look for one with interior compartments or baskets underneath. It’s an excellent place for stowing away shoes, umbrellas, or kids’ backpacks, keeping everything tidy and out of sight.

When floor space is more restricted, installing floating shelves with two low-profile chairs underneath can be a practical solution. This setup provides guests a place to sit while allowing for easy movement when entering or leaving the home. The slimline design of the chairs and shelves ensures that access is not completely blocked, unlike bulky furniture or door draft stoppers.

Consider placing two tall stools close together near the doorway for entryways with even less floor space. This arrangement offers a compact seating solution while minimizing obstruction to movement areas such as door frames. Guests can still have a comfortable and secure place to sit without impeding the flow within the entryway.

Decorate With Artwork

Don’t forget about the power of artwork. Adding art can instantly enhance the visual appeal and personality of this area in your home. Considering the limited size of the space, it’s critical to choose artwork that is proportionate and doesn’t overwhelm the area.

Opt for smaller art pieces that won’t take up too much visual space. Posters featuring cities or inspirational quotes can add a touch of character without overpowering the entryway. Framed photographs with narrow mats are also a great choice, as they provide visual interest without adding too much bulk.

Bringing nature indoors is one of the easiest small entryway ideas to enhance your space. Consider adding some plants or flowers near the entrance. Not only will they add a pop of color and vitality, but they will also help create a welcoming and refreshing atmosphere in your home.

Maximize Wall Space

Consider incorporating hanging baskets and pegboards to make the most of limited wall space in small entryways. These functional additions can help maximize storage and organization without taking up valuable floor space with door draft stoppers.

Hanging baskets are perfect for holding lightweight items such as scarves, hats, gloves, and sunglasses. By utilizing vertical space, you can keep these essentials within reach near your entrance without cluttering the area.

Another solution is to install a pegboard on one wall of your entryway. Customize it with hooks and other attachments to accommodate items you use regularly. You’ll always have a designated spot to keep them visible and easily accessible, no matter the time of day.

Add Mirrors and Wall Hooks

Mirrors are functional and serve as stylish additions to small entryways. They have the power to reflect light and create an illusion of openness, making dark corners appear brighter. Mirrors are perfect for quick outfit checks before heading out the door.

When selecting a mirror for your entryway, choose one that fits the size and shape of the room. This feature ensures a harmonious and proportionate look. With various sizes and styles available, finding the appropriate mirror to suit your space shouldn’t be a challenge.

To further enhance the functionality of your entryway, incorporate wall hooks near the mirror. These hooks provide a convenient and secure spot to hang coats and scarves, keeping them off the floor and preventing clutter. By combining mirrors and wall hooks, you can create a practical and visually appealing area in your small entryway.

Add Lighting

Proper lighting is essential for creating the illusion of a larger space in any room, including entryways. There are various lighting options available to add brightness to your entrance area. Sconces are a versatile choice, as they can provide task lighting and ambient light. Look for designs that feature glass shades, as they can create beautiful reflections. This element adds an extra touch of elegance to your entryway. Plug-in pendant lights are a great option, especially in small spaces like entryways. These lights provide bright illumination without the need for hardwired installations, making them convenient and flexible for your lighting needs