Your entryway does more than welcome guests—it sets the stage for your entire home. Whether you have a grand foyer or a tiny nook by the front door, giving this space a thoughtful update can instantly elevate the entire feel of your home. The best part? You don’t have to undergo a full renovation to make a major impact.
Small, intentional changes can take your entryway from forgettable to fantastic. If you’re ready to create a warm and stylish first impression, here’s exactly how to make it happen.
DIY Décor That Looks Fabulous
Absolutely—and it’s the quickest way to infuse personality into your entryway. A few well-placed, handcrafted elements can set the right mood the second you step inside. The trick is choosing DIY decor projects that match your vision for the space, ensuring they don’t just look good but also feel like they belong in your home.
Whether it’s a hand-painted sign with your family name, a custom coat rack made from reclaimed wood, or a sleek mirror frame that you designed yourself, these personal touches bring warmth to an entryway that might otherwise feel like an afterthought.
For a high-impact upgrade, consider painting an accent wall with a color that complements the rest of your home.
Or, if you’re feeling extra creative, a wallpapered statement wall with a subtle pattern can create an effortlessly polished look. The key is to balance your personal style with functionality—think practical and eye-catching.
The One Furniture Piece That Transforms an Entryway Instantly
If you don’t already have a solid wood console table in your entryway, you’re missing out on one of the easiest ways to add both style and function to the space. The beauty of this piece is its versatility—it provides a surface for décor while offering much-needed storage for keys, mail, or anything else you want to keep handy but out of the way.
Opting for a solid wood version means you’re getting both durability and a timeless aesthetic that works with just about any design style. Whether you prefer a more modern, rustic, or traditional look, this type of console table serves as an anchor for your entryway.
You can dress it up with a chic table lamp, a decorative tray for essentials, and a piece of framed artwork to bring the whole setup together.
Lighting to Make an Impact
Think of lighting as the secret ingredient that pulls everything together. If your entryway feels a little lackluster, a lighting upgrade might be exactly what it needs.
A single, well-placed light fixture can create a warm, refreshing, and inviting atmosphere while making the space feel intentional and designed—rather than just a pass-through area.
Swapping out an outdated ceiling light for a pendant or chandelier can make a dramatic difference, giving the space a refined and put-together feel.
If you’re working with a lower ceiling, a stylish flush-mount fixture can provide the same effect without overwhelming the room. For a softer glow, consider adding a table lamp on your console or a pair of wall sconces to frame a mirror or piece of art.
The Trick to Making the Space Feel Bigger
Even the smallest entryway can feel more spacious with the right design choices. A well-placed mirror is one of the best ways to create the illusion of more space while adding a functional element that’s always useful for last-minute outfit checks before you head out the door.
A large, statement mirror can reflect natural light and make the area feel airy and open.
If you have limited wall space, consider a series of smaller mirrors arranged in an eye-catching way. Leaning a floor mirror against the wall is another great option for adding height and a sense of openness to a tighter space.
Another way to maximize the feel of your entryway is by keeping it clutter-free. A sleek, well-organized setup with only a few key decorative elements will naturally make the space feel larger and more refined.
Make an Entryway More Functional Without Sacrificing Style
No one likes stepping into a home only to be greeted by a pile of shoes, a tangle of keys, and stacks of unopened mail. A stylish entryway should also be a practical one, and a few simple organizational tricks can keep everything looking tidy while still feeling warm and inviting.
Incorporating a stylish storage bench is a great way to give guests (and yourself) a designated spot to sit on while you’re putting on or taking off shoes. It also doubles as hidden storage for anything you don’t want on display. Wall-mounted hooks or a chic coat rack can keep outerwear easily accessible without cluttering up the space.