How to Create a Stunning Entryway That Makes Everyone Feel at Home
Let’s face it – your entryway sets the whole vibe of your home.
I’ve seen countless beautiful homes ruined by cluttered, dark entrances that feel about as welcoming as a dentist’s waiting room.
After designing hundreds of entryways (and making plenty of mistakes along the way), here’s my foolproof guide to creating an entrance that wows.
Make It Clean & Organized (Your Mom Was Right)
- Install hooks at different heights (trust me, your kids will thank you)
- Add a slim console table with drawers for those pesky keys and mail
- Get baskets that actually look good (no plastic bins, please!)
- Keep only daily essentials visible – everything else needs to go
Light It Up (But Don’t Blind Anyone)
- Layer your lighting – I swear by this combo:
- One statement overhead light
- Two small table lamps
- Optional: LED strip lighting for steps
- Aim for warm white bulbs (2700-3000K)
- Install dimmer switches – game changer!
Furniture That Works Hard (But Looks Effortless)
The Magic Triangle:
- A narrow console table (maximum 15″ deep)
- A small bench or ottoman
- A mirror that reflects natural light
Add Life (Without The Maintenance)
- Low-light plants like ZZ plants or snake plants
- Fresh flowers weekly (or high-quality silk ones – I won’t tell)
- Natural textures like woven baskets or wooden bowls
Create Your Color Story
My foolproof palette:
- Main color: Neutral (think warm greige)
- Accent: Two complementary colors max
- Metals: Stick to one finish throughout
The Personal Touch
Remember: This isn’t a hotel lobby
- Display family photos in similar frames
- Add scent with essential oils (skip artificial fragrances)
- Include something unexpected (my entrance has my grandmother’s vintage umbrella stand)
Pro Tips From My Design Disasters:
What to Avoid:
- ❌ Don’t block natural light with heavy curtains
- ❌ Avoid tiny rugs that slip around
- ❌ Skip the shoe rack – invest in closed storage
What to Do:
- ✅ Do invest in proper lighting
- ✅ Choose washable rugs
- ✅ Install hooks at usable heights
Your entryway should feel like a warm hug, not a cold handshake.
Keep it simple, keep it personal, and most importantly, keep it functional.
Trust me, once you nail these basics, everything else falls into place.
Remember: You’re not designing for Instagram – you’re creating a space that welcomes you home every single day.