I am currently working on updating our foyer/entry (check out phase one here), so I thought I’d use today’s post to give some ideas on how to make your entry more welcoming and functional.
An entryway in a home is unique in that it is the first space guests usually see. Therefore, they often make their first impression of your home when entering this space. Your entry should reflect you and feel warm and inviting; it should be a space that makes visitors want to come on in and explore more of your home.
An entry is also the last space we exit when leaving our home to go somewhere and the first place we enter when returning home. Therefore, it needs to be a very functional and organized room. This is the place we gather the last few items needed before we leave—like an umbrella or the dog’s leash. And it is the first place we drop things when we return home—like our keys or shoes.
It doesn’t matter how grand or how cramped your entry is, these are some easy things you can do to make it more welcoming and functional.
CREATE A FOCAL POINT
Find a unique item and display it in a prominent place in your entry. For instance, it could be a bold wall painting, an antique table, a gorgeous light fixture or a handmade rug. It doesn’t have to be large or expensive to be interesting. When entering your home it’s nice to have something that immediately draws your eye and leaves a positive impression.
Below are some interesting ways to create a focal point…
A simple and small entryway becomes anything but boring due to this bold painting that creates a major focal point.
Upon entering this foyer your eye is drawn to the graphic wallpaper which adds pattern and interest.
A grand staircase like this is sure to leave an impression once you step foot in this home.
These vintage theater seats will surely grab your attention when you enter this home… And they are very functional too!
STORAGE IS IMPORTANT
Think about everything you like to store in your entryway, then look for decorative storage options that are not only functional but also attractive. Choose storage that is easy to access and just the right amount for the items you use. Focus on furniture with drawers or baskets so everything is neatly tucked away from plain sight. If floor space is limited, look for wall shelves or hooks.
A place to sit may be important too. If you can’t fit a large bench in the room then opt for a small stool you can slide under a console table when you aren’t using it.
Here are some of my favorite stylish entryway storage pieces…
The family’s shoes stay organized and hidden by these crates which also add character to the room.
You can easily grab your accessories from this coat rail on your way out the door.
This bench is not only functional for sitting, but it also holds a basket for storage and a few decorative pieces. It’s a great multi-functional piece of furniture for a small space.
A large console table like this provides plenty of hidden and open storage.
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