The Formula to Creating The Perfect Entryway – 5 Essential Ingredients!

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How to Easily Design A Gorgeous & Inviting Entryway

If you’re wondering how to make your entrance look better without a complete (expensive!) overhaul, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll explore my formula to the perfect entryway, and the simple yet effective tips needed to transform your entry area into a welcoming and visually appealing space that you’ll love coming home to.

Decorating can be hard, and breaking things down into things that are like universal formulas, has always been something that has appealed to me. It makes the process seem less daunting, especially for people that don’t have a lot of experience decorating! It gives you somewhere to start, and builds confidence that you can create a beautiful finished room if you just stick to the ‘steps’.

So now let’s break down my entryway formula and go a little more in depth into each part. And if you want formulas for other rooms, drop me a comment below and let me know which room you’d like me to do next!

1. Storage

Storage is the cornerstone of an organized and inviting entryway, because who wants to walk into a cluttered mess, right?! It’s super easy for things to get messy reeeeal quick if you don’t have your storage situation figured out.

But here’s the catch: to nail storage, you gotta KNOW what you actually need to store! So ask yourself, my friend: what items are seasonal, and what items are always needed in your entryway? Knowing your storage requirements is absolutely key. Trust me, it’ll make all the difference!

Once you’ve figured that out, invest in clever storage solutions like a stylish shoe rack, wall-mounted hooks for coats and bags, or a versatile storage bench. When everything has its place, you’ll spend less time searching for keys and more time enjoying your beautifully organized entryway.

Best Entryway Storage solutions

My favorite types of entryway storage pieces are:

1. Hall trees: Hall trees are an absolute must have if you don’t have an entry closet or simply need more storage space for a large family. They’ll help you keep coats, hats, scarves, and more neatly organized in one convenient spot. Plus, you can even find some with storage benches for even MORE storage and a handy place to sit! 😄
2. Storage Benches: Storage benches are a great choice if you have a bit more space in your entryway. They provide seating while also offering hidden storage compartments beneath the seat. Use them to stow away items like scarves, gloves, or even things like pet leashes. Or you could use them for seasonal storage.
3. Console Tables with Drawers: Console tables with drawers provide a sleek storage solution. They’re ideal for storing smaller items like mail, keys, and sunglasses. You can also use the tabletop to display decor pieces.
4. Floating Shelves: Floating shelves add a touch of modern elegance to your entryway. Use them to display decorative items, and organize smaller essentials in baskets, bins or trays.
5. Wall-Mounted Hooks: Wall-mounted hooks are versatile and space-saving. They’re perfect for hanging coats, hats, jackets, bags, and even keys. Consider decorative hooks that double as decor pieces.
6. Baskets and Bins: Baskets and bins are versatile and can be placed on shelves or inside cabinets. They’re perfect for storing gloves, scarves, hats, and other small items. Opt for woven or fabric containers to add texture to your decor. Lids are handy to conceal mess.

Choose the storage solutions that best suit your entryway’s size, layout, and your specific organizational needs. By incorporating any of the items listed above, you’ll have a more functional and appealing entryway in no time!

Short on space in your foyer? Then try to opt for multifunctional pieces like storage benches and hall trees, and remember to utilize as much vertical space as possible!

If you’re wondering what I think about those free standing coat rack tree thingies, well… I don’t really like them! 😅 I feel like more often than not, they look chaotic. But hey if they work for you, or that’s all you have space for, then go right ahead and use them! My suggestion would be to just keep the amount of things hanging from it minimal so that it doesn’t look cluttered.

2. Seating

It’s actually interesting how little time you’ll spend in your entryway if you don’t have a place to sit down. Without seating, your entryway is just a chaotic passageway. Instead of being a space to pause, it becomes a thoroughfare – a place you hurry through without a second thought.

When you add seating to your entryway however, the space is transformed into a welcoming haven, like a transitional zone that eases you into the comfort of your home. It’s no longer just a pathway; it’s a place where functionality meets comfort and style. It sets the tone for your home, making every entrance and exit a pleasant experience.

I always dreamed of having some kind of vintage settee or bench in my hallway so I was beyond thrilled to be able to pick up this bench from The Home Depot for this partnership. The bench is just the right size for a smaller (but also not tiny) entryway like ours. I love the traditional look it has, and the bench is also doing double duty for me since not only is it providing seating but it also has that old world vintage charm to it 🤗 #win

The Home Depot has an amazing selection of home decor items and now is a great time to check them out since they’re having their Super Savings Event! The sale runs between 9/14 and 9/27 and you’ll be able to get up to 40% off select furniture, kitchenware, & home decor items to elevate your entryway!

Moral of the story: seating is not just a practical addition to your entryway; it’s also a warm and inviting element that can greatly enhance the space’s functionality, aesthetics and most importantly, your wellbeing!

3. Lighting a welcoming Entryway

Alright, let’s talk about one of my favorite aspects of entryway design – lighting! It’s like the unsung hero that sets the mood and welcomes you and your guests with open arms. In this section, I’ll spill the beans on how to light up your entryway to create a warm and inviting vibe.😊

Embrace the Sun: If your entryway is blessed with lots of natural light during the day, make the most of it! Let the sunshine flood in. And if privacy is a concern, opt for sheer curtains that allow the gentle glow to filter through while ensuring your personal space remains undisturbed. I’m a big fan of placing a mirror across from a window; it’s like doubling the sunlight and making your entryway feel extra spacious and welcoming. Natural light not only brightens things up but also makes the space feel connected to the great outdoors.

Evening Elegance: As the evening sets in, keeping your entryway well-lit is key. I’d go for ceiling fixtures like pendant lights, chandeliers, or flush-mounts if you have a particularly low ceiling – they’re practical and they look stylish too.

Best Entryway Lighting

Now, let’s get creative with lighting:

• Wall Sconces: These are like the mood-setters of your entryway. They cast a warm and welcoming glow that adds character.
• Accent Lights: Got some cool artwork or decor? Shine a light on it! It’s like giving your entryway a personal touch.
• Table Lamps: A strategically placed table lamp can bring sophistication and a touch of your personality.
• Floor Lamps: If your entryway has some extra space, consider a stylish floor lamp. It’s not just about lighting; it’s also about making a statement!

Candlelit Coziness: Oh, and don’t forget the timeless charm of candles. They create a cozy atmosphere that’s just perfect for your entryway’s evening allure. I love lighting some tealight candles in my entryway in the evening!

Smart Lighting: To add a modern twist, think about smart lighting. I’ve got a smart lightbulb in my table lamp that knows when to turn on at sunset. It’s like a personal welcome home party every evening!

4. Greenery

A welcoming entryway isn’t complete without a touch of nature. Whether it’s a vibrant potted plant on a stylish console table or a beautifully arranged bouquet of fresh flowers adorning the hallway, the presence of natural elements can effortlessly elevate the ambiance and create a sense of harmony.

Choose indoor plants that can thrive in your entryway’s lighting conditions (all my fave low light plants are listed here!). Think snake plants, pothos, or peace lilies – plants that not only look good but are also pretty low-maintenance. Pop them on shelves, consoles, or by the windows to give your space a lively feel.

Of course I always like to remind people that faux plants are *always* an option – they are fantastic for people that have low light rooms, aren’t home a lot, or just don’t want the hassle of real plants.

I added this lifelike Nearly Natural faux cedar from The Home Depot to my entryway and it brings all the beauty of a real plant without the hassle of having to maintain it (I always feel anxious about watering larger plants because I worry they might leak water onto the floor!). It would also be Ideal for entryways with low light or for those of us who may not have the greenest of thumbs. The best part? I have an extra Christmas tree to decorate during the holidays! 🎄

5. Vintage Charm

Alright, let’s talk vintage charm! This is all about giving your entryway some character and a bit of history. It’s like adding a dash of nostalgia to your decor.

First up, keep an eye out for antique furniture. Hunt for unique vintage pieces like a weathered console table, an antique chest, or a charming old mirror. These items can instantly give your space that timeless vibe.

If you’re short on space, just place a single antique chair in your entryway – again, having a small space means you need to think multipurpose: vintage + seating! It’s such a simple yet impactful way to create an inviting and nostalgic atmosphere.

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Hungry for more entryway decorating ideas? I don’t blame ya! Next I recommend you go check out The Home Depot’s pro entryway styling tips right here!

No matter how big or small your entryway is, with all of these elements working together – storage, seating, light, greenery, and vintage charm – your entryway will become the perfect introduction to your home.

So, take the time to design your entryway thoughtfully. Invest in quality storage solutions that keep clutter at bay and make your daily routine smoother. Add seating to create a welcoming atmosphere that invites you or a guest to linger for a moment. Play with lighting to set the right mood, and introduce greenery to breathe life into the space. Finally, sprinkle in some vintage charm to bring character into your entryway!

Your entryway is the red carpet to your home, and it deserves the star treatment! So, roll out that carpet, follow the formula, and make your entryway a space that not only wows but also makes you feel at home, every single day.