Are you the type of person who throws your purse on the floor and is looking for their keys the next morning? Do you hang everything where it belongs right when you walk in the door? The entryway of your home greets you after a long day and is often the first impression for guests. More importantly, it can be a functional space for corralling your everyday items and making your exit in the morning a little easier.
Many homes don’t have a foyer or obvious “entryway”, but all you need is a wall (preferably by your front door) where you can define the space and create zones for your keys, bag, and shoes. The wall space doesn’t need to be expansive, just wide enough to fit a small table or bench.
The entryway can be as elaborate or simple as you want, it just needs to work with your lifestyle. If you struggle with storing shoes, incorporate a basket or cabinet where they can be tucked away. Love having a variety of hats and bags to choose from? Hang some wall hooks.
In this post I am going to share with you the key design elements for creating an entryway and examples I created for inspiration. These mockups are purely for inspiration, so if they are not your exact taste you can still get some ideas and determine your own needs using items that match your style.
The 5 Key Elements
There are five key elements you should include to make an entryway functional and aesthetically pleasing.
- Table or bench
- Mirror or art
- Basket or tray
- Wall hooks
- Plant or greenery
If you have more space or want to add more elements, these items are optional and elevate the design.
- Chair or ottoman
- Decorative items
- Lamps
- Books
- Vases
- Candles
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Entryway Inspiration
All of the products used in the design examples are linked below. You can use and repurpose items already in your home. I often switch up my entry between a bench and table to keep things fresh.
Small Design With Purpose
This is an example using the wall right next to the front door. The design does not take up much space, but the cabinet adds extra storage, while the hooks and tray provide a place to put your keys, coat or bag. I prefer having a mirror in my entry for last minute hair fixes, but this can easily be replaced with a piece of art.
Seating and Storage
I love the idea of including a place to sit and take off your shoes. Plants add color and texture while elevating the space. This design also has metal bins for hats, gloves or a bag if you prefer this option over the hooks. A large piece of art brings the design together; you can read my post on Affordable Art for the Home for some ideas on adding art to your space.
Large Baskets & Decor
I love all of the moody walls I have been seeing lately so I had to include a dark color. The baskets provide a ton of storage for shoes, gloves, and hats, while the tray keeps your keys and wallet in a designated location. I have these candlesticks on my entry table, and love adding extra detail when possible. Hanging a few of hooks creates space for a jacket or backpack.
Take a Seat With Style
If you don’t want or need a table and prefer somewhere to sit, using a bench is a great option. You can take a seat and store your shoes in the baskets underneath. The small side table holds a basket catch-all for keys, and the mirror offers a glance before running out the door. Three modern wall hooks provide a place for jackets and bags. The gallery wall is great for displaying family photos, or pictures from your favorite vacation spots, which can be a welcoming view when you walk in the door.
Hang Up Your Coat and Read a Book
This is my favorite entryway because of the mix between modern and earthy. I love designing a space that is functional, but also feels inviting. Adding a lamp next to the chair creates an opportunity for a reading nook. The most important part of planning your own entry is figuring out how you will use the space, what your most important elements are and then finding pieces that work well together.
Focus on your needs and style and you can create a welcoming space with purpose!
