A small home is nothing to be ashamed of. In fact, even without much real estate, there’s still a ton you can do to create a warm, inviting space. Sure, it seems unbelievable, but a bit of creativity is all it takes!
44 Small Entryway Ideas
Don’t believe us? Here are 44 small entryway ideas by imaginative homeowners that will change your mind! See which of these entryway designs you feel is worth “borrowing” for your home!
Textured Walls
Credit to yzfomedecor
The entryway is your home’s way of letting people know what’s to come. You want it to make a big impression if you plan on having guests over on the regular. One simple way to do this is to have textured walls or walls with a non-smooth surface. Textured walls are great for masking imperfections, as well as adding visual depth and interest in a limited space.
Seating Area
Credit to nouveadesignhouse
Whether you’re leaving your home or just coming back, a seating area is a great way to add comfort to a small entryway. It’s highly functional in high-traffic areas where some people can sit while putting their shoes on, while others just slip them on while standing. Think of it as a “soft landing”—a transitional space that gives pause to what you’re doing, allowing you to gather your belongings before going about your biz.
Mirror and Floating Shelf
Credit to katiemartinezdesign
Small entryways can benefit from mirrors and floating shelves. For starters, mirrors can create the illusion of a wider space by reflecting light and visually doubling the square footage. This is especially helpful in entryways with a ton of natural light. Secondly, floating shelves provide additional storage space without taking up any floor space. They’re also great for showing off a bit about yourself in the form of knick-knacks, photographs, and whatsits.
Area Rug
Credit to dearlillie
An area rug, no matter how small, is a simple yet highly impactful upgrade. Area rugs serve as barriers in a transitional space between the dirty floors of an entryway and the cleanliness of the rest of the home. Where entryways bleed into the living area, you’ll definitely want a way to define where your family and guests should stop dragging in dirt, mud, or snow.
Unique Colors
Credit to fenimorelane
A coat of fresh paint may be a chore to apply, but in a small entryway, colors really make a statement about who the homeowner is. The greenness in this entryway may communicate the homeowner’s desire to establish a bright, inviting home, as well as a connectedness to the outdoors. While it may be impossible to tell what the goal is here, one thing is for certain: this is an unforgettable entryway!
Grand Appearance
Credit to detailsinteriors
Small entryways are no reason not to go above and beyond normal expectations. Here’s an entryway that exudes luxury, from the choice of floor vinyl to the chandelier. The mirrors are one of the main focal points in this image due to their geometric design. Blue vases on the glass-top console table shatter the monotony of peach.
Rustic Simplicity
Credit to mydecoratingobsession
On the opposite end of the luxury spectrum is rustic simplicity. You don’t need fancy chandeliers to make a statement about your home—simple wooden elements, a muted earth-tone palette, and dark accents go a really long way. The half-door connects visitors not just to the outdoors but also a simple lifestyle.
Paneled Walls
Credit to ck_interior_and_associates
In small entryways, every addition matters. This homeowner went with wall panels that add visual interest to the room without taking a single square inch of floor space. Wall panels are highly customizable in terms of style and color, so choose a design that speaks about who you are. Hanging a large piece of artwork is also a great way to get your message across.
Natural Sunlight
Credit to remadeandrefresh
There’s no denying the mood-boosting properties of natural sunlight! The only question is, how do you introduce sunlight into a small entryway? The simplest way is to replace your door with one that has a glass panel. You can also create an illusion of airy brightness with the strategic placement of mirrors, as well as the use of bright colors. If possible, consider installing skylights or sun tunnels, though they can be pretty costly.
Patterns
Credit to watsonreiddeaneganes
If you’re self-conscious about the space limitation of your entryway, geometric patterns are the way to go. In this image, it’s hardly noticeable that we’re looking into a small space since the criss-crossing lines on the walls, the diamond checkerboard floor tiles, and the symmetrical alignment of the hanging photographs immediately draw our attention. Feel free to be as loud or as soft as you want when implementing patterns in your entryway.
Highlighting Focal Points with Sconces
Credit to morgan.kalberer
If your entryway is lacking in the sunlight department, there’s nothing wrong with using powered light sources to brighten a small entryway. Sconces are space-saving light sources that are mounted onto the wall, reducing clutter on console tables and freeing up floor space. They are also great at directing one’s attention to specific areas or things in the room. Here, the sconces are directed at the decorative pieces on a floating shelf.
Open Closet
Credit to cali_home_design
For those with closets in their entryway, make sure to appreciate everything about them. They’re the perfect solution for decluttering the entryway by housing shoes, coats, and anything in between. This walk-in entryway closet isn’t concealed by a door, which makes the room feel a bit bigger than it is. Hooks, floating shelves, and other storage solutions are perfect in closeted spaces.
Wall Hooks
Credit to kristy.taylor.design
If you don’t have a closet in your entryway, you can still benefit from those same storage solutions. This image shows a small entryway with hooks mounted onto the wall. They’re perfect for large jackets and bags—basically, anything that would take too much console table space. The hooks in this home perfectly match the accents of the mirror, window frame, sconce, and photo frame.
Seasonal Decorations
Credit to theholubhouse
If it’s the season, your entryway is a wonderful area to celebrate the occasion! This homeowner is definitely a fan of Christmas and the winter. Surprise your family and guests with seasonal decorations that lets everyone know you’re in a festive mood! Or perhaps scare your guests silly with Halloween-related decorations and animatronic props.
Topiaries
Credit to featherglass
A touch of greenery can enhance the liveliness of any room, and in rooms where every square foot matters, topiaries are the way to go. These things can stand pretty tall, which draw the viewer’s attention upward to create a sense of height. However, they don’t have to be over-the-top since smaller options are available. Potted plants work well, too, if you have the floor space for them.
Minimal Storage, Maximum Impact
Credit to katie_elaine
A little bit goes a long way, as evidenced by this image of a simple yet highly functional entryway. There’s nothing here that immediately stands out, but everything blends together to create a cohesive look filled with thought and care. A bench, a few hooks, and a floating shelf with a few decorative pieces make this small entryway a place worth stopping and appreciating.
Color Match Made in Heaven
Credit to danslelakehouse
Be bold with your color choices. Sure, tried-and-true color palettes are great, but if you really want to make a statement, choose something a bit out of the norm. This small entryway just screams “beach breezy” with its aqua-blue door, pure-white frames and area rug, and gray floor tiles for a bit of contrast.
Elegance at Its Finest
Credit to rittika_ariyonainterior
This small entryway is nearly the complete opposite from what we saw earlier. First of all, the color scheme isn’t nearly as “in your face” as the previous one, but it works well in instilling a sense of elegance. The true feeling of sophistication, however, comes from the hanging chandelier and ceiling-mounted lights that brighten the space. The nook is a great way to keep a console table out of the way.
Wicker Basket
Credit to elysiaenglish
The foremost problem in any small entryway is storage space. This problem can be alleviated with floating shelves and console tables, but if you’re working on a budget, wicker baskets are the way to go. Here, we see a simple wicker basket in the corner, with nothing but a pillow for decoration. They’re functional storage pieces for other things, such as slippers, umbrellas, faux plants, and seasonal décor.
Exposed Brick
Credit to calclosetnj
Exposed brick gives the smallest entryways a ton of character. In this image, the bricks serve as a backdrop behind a mudroom unit, defining where the entryway begins and ends. While real bricks are awesome, they’re not necessary since brick wallpaper is an option. Highlight the brick backdrop with warm lighting or soft elements like a wooden bench.
Freestanding Mirror
Credit to i_for_design_interiors
Go big or go home, they say. This applies to many things in life, but in a small entryway, your options of larger items may be limited. That said, you can make a statement with a piece like this massive freestanding mirror placed against the wall of a small entryway. It doesn’t take much floor space, but it works wonders in bouncing light around.
Glass Console Table
Credit to danamoleflynninteriordesign
Console tables are typically functional pieces of furniture. This console table, however, doesn’t serve the exact same function as its traditional counterparts. It’s made entirely of glass but has a curved waterfall look for a heightened sense of grace. It’s a delicate piece that doesn’t hold bulkier items, but it’s definitely a conversation starter.
Sliding Closet Door
Credit to visualcomfort
This small entryway utilizes many of the elements we’ve spoken of thus far. The one thing that makes it stand out from the rest is the sliding closet doors. Since the doors don’t swing outward, you don’t have to worry about them taking up floor space. In small entryways, sliding doors are great dividers that introduce style and a feeling of thoughtfulness in one of the most used parts of your home.
Barebones Beauty
Credit to mydecoratingobsession
Of course, every decoration idea we’ve discussed thus far are just suggestions. Even without fancy tables, chandeliers, wallpaper, and seating areas, a small entryway can become a beautiful room. In some cases, a little bit goes a long way, and this is photographic evidence of that!
Woven Baskets for Quick Cleanups
Woven baskets by the entry provide an instant place for shoes and loose items. A small basket on top works well for keys or sunglasses. The design looks tidy and natural, creating a welcoming feel. Anyone entering this home finds order right at the door.
Wall-Mounted Floating Shelf and Hooks
A wall-mounted floating shelf above a row of hooks turns blank space into storage. Books and a plant sit on the shelf, while hats and scarves hang below. The entry remains clutter-free, and everything stays easy to reach. Every item has its spot here.
Tall Cabinet With Mirror Front
A slim cabinet with a mirrored door stands beside the entry. Shoes, bags, and hats stay hidden behind the door, while the mirror brightens the whole area. The design suits narrow hallways without crowding them. Guests see a clean, open space as they arrive.
Sliding Barn Door Entry Closet
A sliding barn door covers an entry closet with hanging space for jackets and drawers below for shoes. The closet keeps everything tidy and hidden, while the door saves space. This setup brings function and style together. The entryway never feels cramped.
Skinny Bookshelf as Catch-All Storage
A skinny bookshelf fits snugly beside the front door. Each shelf holds a basket or a plant, with hats and gloves close at hand. The vertical design uses space efficiently without crowding the entry. Every shelf helps keep the area organized
Shoe Cabinet With Pull-Down Drawers
A shoe cabinet with pull-down drawers stands ready for busy mornings. Shoes slide out easily, and the top serves as a spot for decor or a mail tray. A mirror above the cabinet finishes the look and opens up the space. Everything needed for the day fits right here.
Peg Rail With Adjustable Hooks
A peg rail stretches across the entry wall, with hooks ready for hats, bags, or jackets. Above, a shelf offers space for small frames and a vase. The arrangement keeps the entry organized and the floor clear. Everything you need when leaving the house waits by the door.
Patterned Wallpaper Accent Wall
Patterned wallpaper draws the eye in this small entryway. A slim console provides a surface for lamps and baskets, while a round mirror reflects light. The bold wall turns a plain spot into a cheerful entrance. The space feels both stylish and functional.
Built-In Mudroom Bench and Cubbies at Garage Entry
Built-in cubbies and a sturdy bench greet everyone entering from the garage. Hooks above keep jackets in place, while baskets hold seasonal items. The space never feels cluttered because everything fits out of the way. Shoes, bags, and hats all have a home here. I confirm there are no present participial phrases or participle clauses in this description.
Narrow Bench With Storage Baskets
A narrow bench under the window allows a quick seat before leaving or after coming home. Baskets beneath collect scarves and shoes, so nothing sits on the floor. Plants by the window add a natural touch. This entry stays neat every day. No present participial phrases or participle clauses appear in this text.
Mirrored Wall for Depth
A tall arched mirror combined with smaller framed mirrors creates a sense of depth in this compact entryway. Reflections from the mirrors help the space feel open and airy, while the vases and simple greenery add a touch of freshness. This solution brings both style and function to the area.
Mini Mudroom Nook in a Corner
This small entry nook maximizes a corner with practical storage and a welcoming vibe. A wooden bench with a built-in shoe cubby sits beneath a row of sturdy wall hooks. Everything you need for daily routines finds a tidy home right by the door.
Mini Entryway Table With Drawers
A petite table with a single drawer and open shelf sits next to the entry door, providing a convenient spot for keys, mail, and small plants. The natural wicker basket on the lower shelf offers easy storage for incoming papers or shoes. This idea fits perfectly into a tight space without adding clutter.
Open Shoe Shelving for a Streamlined Entry
Shoes line up neatly on open black shelving, keeping the entry clear and organized. Each pair has its place, making it easy to grab footwear on the way out. This setup uses vertical space well and works for families who need quick access to everyday shoes.
Hidden Shoe Tray Under a Floating Shelf
A sleek floating shelf above a hidden tray offers a clever solution for keeping shoes off the floor. Decorative plants and framed art dress up the wall, while the tray slides easily out of sight. Every inch gets used effectively, and cleanup takes only seconds.
Floating Key Rack and Mail Organizer
A modern wall-mounted organizer by the entry sorts mail, keys, and sunglasses into neat labeled compartments. The compact design saves precious space, while a small plant adds warmth under the glow of a wall sconce. Everything important stays close at hand for busy mornings.
Double-Duty Mirror With Storage
This entry mirror conceals shelves for keys, sunglasses, and daily accessories. The mirrored door reflects light and opens to reveal hidden cubbies inside. With this setup, you can check your look on the way out and never forget the essentials.
Shoe Storage Shelves and Bench Combo
Open shelving units pair with a simple bench for an entryway that keeps shoes in order and provides a spot to sit. Each shelf has enough room for several pairs, and a small basket on top holds accessories. The arrangement looks clean and helps everyone stay organized.
Compact Rolling Cart for Essentials
A slender rolling cart sits by the door, holding bags, shoes, and grab-and-go items in separate bins. The portable cart can move where it’s needed or tuck out of sight when guests arrive. This flexible idea adapts to daily changes in a busy household.
Bright Area Rug to Define Entry Zone
A colorful area rug marks the transition from entry to living space. The bold pattern draws the eye and sets a cheerful tone for the whole home. Natural baskets and a light wood table keep the area functional without sacrificing style.
