Functional Entryway Design: How to Revamp Your Space
Give your home a fresh start.
The entryway is the first area you see when you arrive and also the last one you see when you leave the house. So it’s important that it’s both organized and pleasing to the eye. Even if you don’t have a dedicated entryway space, you can create one using any area that’s near your door. And you don’t have to spend a ton of money to make a big improvement. Here are some tips for optimizing every inch of space in your entryway – and making it look nice while you’re at it!
Put Your Best Foot Forward
Welcome mats are a great way to set the scene for your space, both indoors and out. Plus, they’ll prevent dirt from being tracked all over the house. For a subtle look, opt for a traditional mat that blends in with the rest of your decor. Or try a more cheeky option if you want to infuse a bit of humor into the room. A boot tray is another functional piece that is important for the cleanliness of the rest of your house – providing a specific space for your wet footwear will help keep other areas of your home dry and mud-free.
Hidden storage is another important element of the entryway. While we’d all like to pretend that we don’t have any clutter, the reality is that most of us have items that we use but don’t like to look at. These homeowners started with a completely empty room void of any closet space, so they decided to use an armoire as the main storage piece. Armoires are typically used in the bedroom… But they can be handy in the entryway as well. Inside you can hide extra jackets, shoes, and even outdoor gear and toys that may not look great out in the open. They can range in price from $100 to thousands of dollars, but it will be worth the splurge once you have a spot to hide all that outdoor clothing. Plus, you may be able to save money on an armoire (or any furniture, for that matter) by using a coupon or considering Open Box Deals.
It is also helpful to have seating by the door. Providing a place to take boots on and off will simplify the process of going out, especially during the colder months. If you have space, use a small console table with drawers as a place for keys and mail.
If you’re on a tight budget, hooks are one of the most functional decor solutions available... The less expensive ones won’t cost you more than your morning latte. Hangers have their place for closet storage, but there’s nothing easier to use than a hook. Installing several on the wall will give you a spot to stash items that you use every day such as jackets, dog leashes, and handbags. Hang that coat on the hook instead of tossing it on the chair, and your space will immediately look cleaner and more organized.
Baskets are another practical decor tool not to be overlooked. They come in all shapes, sizes, materials, and prices, so there is surely one that fits your style. Choose several matching baskets for a cohesive look or a couple of larger coordinating ones for a more eclectic look. And they can be handy inside of larger storage furniture as well.
Other helpful accessories to consider include mirrors, umbrella stands, and artwork to lend a decorative touch. Be sure to add a floor or table lamp if your space doesn’t have an overhead light… or perhaps even if it does! Accessories are an affordable way to lend some character to your space; a couple of $10 throw pillows can be the difference between a mediocre seating area and a welcoming space.
Although it can be daunting to transform an empty space into a welcoming entryway, there are some easy ways to create a functional space that imparts the perfect first (and last) impression. With a bit of careful planning and some strategic shopping, you’ll be enjoying your beautiful new entryway in no time.
Faith Towers Provencher is a do-it-yourself decor blogger with a passion for all things creative. She shares colorful DIY projects and inspiration on her blog, Design Fixation, and on her Instagram and Pinterest accounts. She has also regularly contributed to Houzz.com, BobVila.com, DIYs.com, Curbly.com, and many others. She received her art degree from Skidmore College in upstate New York and has been working on a freelance basis in the Boston area for a decade. When she’s not working, she’s usually exploring local antique shops with her family or walking her mischievous dog Charlie.
