5-Star Ideas for Even the Smallest Entryways

5-Star Ideas for Even the Smallest Entryways

They say you only get one chance at a first impression, so what does that say about the entryway to your house?

Your entryway isn’t just the first impression guests receive coming to your home, it’s also the first space that greets you every time you walk in the door. It should be a space that you enjoy and that reflects your style. Having an entryway that makes a good impression isn’t only for grand foyers. At Notre Dame Castle, we believe that even small spaces can be both functional and stylish with a few good choices.

We break down designing your excellent entryway into two categories – design and furniture – to help you create both the feeling and function of a distinct entryway in your home.

Design

The goal is to use design to make your entryway feel like its own distinct space, apart from the room it’s in or attached to.

Start with the walls. You might consider adding a section of bright or contrasting paint or using a wall texture like wood slats or wallpaper. Even if your entryway is just a piece of a larger room, painting just a section of the wall can define it as a different space.

Next, consider the floor. Adding an interesting and complementary rug will help to define the area for your entryway, particularly if your front door leads directly into your living room or another room in your house.

Look for lighting options that are installed on the ceiling in your space. A light fixture will help the space look taller and longer. A beautiful pendant light will get the look without the electrical work.

Continue your design theme as you select your storage and furniture options, and add accessories like plants, frames or mirrors. Don’t be afraid to create a truly standout space; you’re working with a small space, so big design ideas can have a lot of impact without being overwhelming.

Furniture and Storage

Of course, an entryway needs to be more than simply pretty, it also has a job to do – storing your shoes, hanging up your coat and keys. An entryway needs to provide these functions, or it won’t work as a useful space.

There are so many options for storage at your front door, both ready-made or DIY. If your space allows, you could use a small cabinet or dresser for storage. In tighter areas, you might choose to install shelves with coat hooks below so as not to lose floor space.

There are many space-saving storage solutions made just for entryways, designed to tuck away coats and shoes while taking up as little space as possible. But what if you just don’t have the space, or storage cabinets are out of the question, and even shelves won’t do? Take another look at the space you’re working with and get creative. Is there room under your stairs that could be accessed and repurposed for some hideaway shoe storage? Don’t have any stairs? Everyone has studs! Even the space between your wall studs can be given surprising upgrades to accommodate a little storage.

Adding a little accent furniture will depend entirely on what your space allows. Adding a small chair or bench can help the space feel like a purposeful station where you put on your shoes before heading out the door. You might consider choosing a piece of furniture that does double duty, like a hall tree, that includes a place to sit, hang your coats and often storage.

Now that the big items are out of the way, don’t forget to pay attention to the details: hang a mail sorter, place a bowl for your keys and include finishing touches that complement your design and give your space function.

If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to visit Notre Dame Castle for assistance. We would be happy to help you in any way we can.