It’s easy to overlook the entryway, since you don’t spend a lot of time in the space, compared to a bedroom or living room. However, this transitional area is where you walk in and out of the home each day, and where you often drop off your purses, shoes, and jackets, and mail. The best small entryway ideas combine storage and style. When done well, an entryway can help you stay organized and make a positive first impression on all who enter. Your entryway is also where you introduce the personality of your home, so it’s worth putting some thought into the design. Create a strategic, stylish space that’s both hardworking and beautiful by choosing furniture with built-in storage, bold paint and wallpaper, and functional decorative elements. We’re sharing our best small entryway ideas to inspire your next home refresh.
Small Entryway with Statement Artwork
Draw the eyes upward in a small entryway to create the impression that the space is larger.
You can achieve this by hanging a large, bold piece of art on the wall to serve as the focal point of the space. A striking piece of artwork draws the gaze upward, instantly making the entryway feel more expansive. Consider a large canvas print, a gallery wall with varying sizes, or even a beautifully framed textile. The key is to choose something visually engaging that won’t be overwhelmed by the small space. This works exceptionally well in entryways that receive natural light, such as this one with its large glass door and side window.
Houseplants for a Small Entryway
An oversized tropical houseplant in a lovely planter on the floor to warm up a small entryway and make it more inviting.
An oversized tropical houseplant in a lovely planter on the floor to warm up a small entryway and make it more inviting. This works exceptionally well in entryways that receive natural light, such as this one with its large glass door and side window. Plants bring life and vibrancy to any room, and a well-placed greenery can instantly soften the hard lines of a small entryway. Opt for plants that thrive in indoor conditions and consider their size – a larger plant can make a bigger impact without overwhelming the space. The lush foliage adds a touch of nature and creates a welcoming atmosphere.
Small Entryway with an Area Rug
An area rug will protect the floor from foot traffic and dirt that comes through the entryway.
An area rug will protect the floor from foot traffic and dirt that comes through the entryway. A rug will warm the room and unify the space, giving a small entryway a cohesive look. Even a small runner can make a significant difference, defining the entryway as a distinct zone within the home. Choose a rug that is appropriately sized for the space – it should be large enough to accommodate at least the front legs of your furniture. The rug’s pattern and color can also add personality and tie together the other elements in the entryway.
Mix Bold Patterns
A tiny entryway doesn’t have to be tiny in style. Big, bold patterns can liven up the space if done the right way.
A tiny entryway doesn’t have to be tiny in style. Big, bold patterns can liven up the space if done the right way. Mix patterns, but stick to a limited color palette – like this one with wallpaper, area rug, stair runner, paint, and accessories in black and white. Even the black hooks against the white wall keep to the black-and-white scheme. Using a consistent color scheme prevents the patterns from clashing and creates a sense of harmony. This approach adds visual interest and personality without overwhelming the small area. Consider incorporating patterns through wallpaper, rugs, curtains, or even accent pillows.
Small Entryway Bench
Tuck a narrow bench into an entryway too small for a table or hall tree. You’ll provide a place to sit while taking off your shoes and to display pillows, art, and plants.
Tuck a narrow bench into an entryway too small for a table or hall tree. You’ll provide a place to sit while taking off your shoes and to display pillows, art, and plants. A bench offers a practical spot for putting on shoes and can double as a decorative element. Choose a bench with storage underneath to maximize functionality. This is a great option for homes with stairs, as a bench can be placed at the base for convenient seating. The bench can be styled with cushions and throws for added comfort and visual appeal.
Add Multiple Storage Options
Place built-in cabinets along the wall of a small entryway to provide a place to stash books, and other clutter at the doorway. Install hooks between and a counter on top, so you have a spot for every item, from art to book bags, without a single wasted inch.
Place built-in cabinets along the wall of a small entryway to provide a place to stash books, and other clutter at the doorway. Install hooks between and a counter on top, so you have a spot for every item, from art to book bags, without a single wasted inch. Maximize vertical space with built-in shelving or cabinets that extend to the ceiling. This provides ample storage without taking up valuable floor space. Consider incorporating a combination of open shelving and closed cabinets to display decorative items while concealing clutter. A narrow console table with drawers can also offer valuable storage and a surface for keys and mail.
Choose a Front Door with Windows
A front door with windows will let in natural light, brightening a small entryway and making it appear larger.
A front door with windows will let in natural light, brightening a small entryway and making it appear larger. This works exceptionally well in entryways that receive natural light, such as this one with its large glass door and side window. Natural light is a powerful tool for making a small space feel more open and airy. A glass panel in the front door allows sunlight to flood the entryway, creating a welcoming and inviting atmosphere. Consider adding sidelights or a transom window above the door to further maximize natural light. The illumination also enhances the visibility of the entryway’s design elements.
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Small Entryway Hall Tree
Hall trees tend to be gigantic pieces of furniture that won’t fit in a small entryway. Look for a small one with an open design, like this one made of bamboo, to hang hats, satchels, and purses. Put a shelf on the piece to hold keys, change, and sunglasses.
Hall trees tend to be gigantic pieces of furniture that won’t fit in a small entryway. Look for a small one with an open design, like this one made of bamboo, to hang hats, satchels, and purses. Put a shelf on the piece to hold keys, change, and sunglasses. A small hall tree offers a convenient place to organize outerwear and accessories. Opt for a model with a narrow profile and vertical storage to minimize its footprint. A bamboo or mirrored hall tree can also help to lighten the space visually. Consider a model with a bench seat for added functionality.
Use a Chest of Drawers Instead of a Hall Tree
Use a chest of drawers instead of a hall tree to provide lots of storage in a small entryway with limited wall space. Style it like an entry table and use its drawers to keep items you need by the door, from jackets to shoes.
Use a chest of drawers instead of a hall tree to provide lots of storage in a small entryway with limited wall space. Style it like an entry table and use its drawers to keep items you need by the door, from jackets to shoes. A chest of drawers offers a versatile storage solution that can also serve as a surface for displaying decorative items. Choose a chest with a sleek design and a neutral color to complement your home décor. The drawers provide ample space for storing shoes, gloves, scarves, and other essentials. A mirror placed above the chest of drawers can also help to visually expand the space.
Small Entryway with a Statement Mirror
Hang a statement mirror on the wall to make a small entryway feel larger. You can also use it to check your look before you head out the door.
Hang a statement mirror on the wall to make a small entryway feel larger. You can also use it to check your look before you head out the door. A strategically placed mirror can significantly enhance the sense of space in a small entryway. Choose a mirror with a decorative frame to add visual interest. A large, full-length mirror is particularly effective in creating the illusion of more space. Position the mirror opposite a window to reflect natural light and further brighten the area. This simple addition can make a big difference in the overall feel of the entryway.
Small Entryway Ideas for Stairs
A pint-sized daybed tucked against a wall by entryway stairs provides a pop of bold pattern thanks to its black-and-white upholstery, as well as a place to sit down and take off your shoes when you come home.
A pint-sized daybed tucked against a wall by entryway stairs provides a pop of bold pattern thanks to its black-and-white upholstery, as well as a place to sit down and take off your shoes when you come home. Utilizing the space under stairs is a clever way to maximize storage and functionality in a small entryway. A small daybed with storage underneath offers a comfortable spot to sit while putting on shoes and provides additional storage for shoes, bags, or blankets. Alternatively, a narrow console table or a set of drawers can be placed under the stairs for convenient storage. This transforms an often-overlooked area into a practical and stylish feature.
When done well, your entryway is also where you can flip the script and set up an entryway for staying put. A cozy bench, a warm rug, and a few personal touches can create a welcoming transition from the outside world to the comfort of your home. The key is to prioritize functionality and style, creating a space that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. By incorporating these small entryway ideas, you can transform a neglected area into a welcoming and organized space that sets the tone for the entire home.
