How To Create An Entryway When You Don't Have One
via House*Tweaking
This week, I'm tackling another common design dilemma - creating an entryway when you don't have one! I'm currently working with a client that has this exact issue, so I've definitely had this problem at the forefront of my brain recently. (In case you missed last week's post, I covered how to decorate around a TV - or at least distract from that big black box. You can read that one here.)
While we all wish we had a true foyer, mudroom, or entryway, in many homes and apartments, the front door opens right up into the living room, which means there isn't a natural drop zone. You have to create one!
Without a spot for keys, coats, bags, and all the other things you bring through the front door, it can quickly become chaotic and disorganized - and no one wants that! All it takes is a short stretch of wall to put together an "entryway" in a small space. You just have to get a little more creative with how you do it.
Today, I want to offer a few ideas and suggestions for how to create a functional and stylish entryway. Depending on what your needs are, one of these may work better for you than another - use them as inspiration to dream up your perfect drop zone. Make a list of what you need, choose the pieces that will fulfill those needs and fit your style. There are a lot of good-looking pieces out there these days!
Bench + Hooks Combo
Need a spot to hang coats by the front door? This is a great option that doesn't take up a lot of visual space, but adds a lot of organizational punch. Placing a bench underneath adds a spot to sit when you're putting your shoes on and creates a nice drop zone for bags as you walk in the door. If you want to, you can also make good use of the space under the bench to store shoes or add baskets for other storage.
via House*Tweaking
via CB2*
Freestanding Hall Tree
Hall trees have gotten a bad rap over the years, but there are some really great ones out there these days that will blend well with your style and decor. They're incredibly functional and are a great way to take advantage of underutilized vertical space in smaller homes.
I do have one warning though about hall trees - they tend to be large and in charge, so be sure you choose a wall that can handle a big piece of furniture!
via Home Depot
via Wayfair
via Elle Decor
Console Table Or Cabinet
This type of furniture is a great way to define an entryway in your home if you have a closet nearby that where you can hang your coats and store other items. You can go with an open style or choose a cabinet that can hold shoes and hide the not-so-pretty things.
Love the look of an open console, but still need some storage space? Try adding a couple of baskets or storage ottomans. They're lovely to look at and functional!
via Studio McGee
(P.S. Love the idea of a console by the front door? I do too - so much so that I wrote a whole post about console table/round mirror combos! Head over here to check that one out.)
These three ideas are some of my favorite ways to define an entryway where there isn't one, but I challenge you to take these ideas and put your own spin on them! Also, I'd love to know if you have a creative way to make or organize the space near your front door - chime in in the comments or leave a note on Instagram!
*Affiliate links were used in this post, which means Mix & Match Design Company earns a small commission from your purchase at no cost to you.
