They say you never get a second chance to make a first impression. That statement is as true for people as it is for your home. The entryway is the first space that guests encounter. It forms their initial impression and can even set the tone for the entire visit. A welcoming entryway can make guests feel comfortable, valued, and excited about their visit.
All this is true, and yet it always seems to be last on the list of updated areas in our homes. Most of us just put up a hall tree and call it a day. So how is your entryway looking these days?
If you are like most of us, and could use some help in giving your entryway some zhuzhing up, we’ve got seven great ways to make a big impact on this small space.
#7 – LET THERE BE LIGHT
Adequate lighting (both during the day and night) is an absolute must in an entryway, but good lighting creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Here are some examples, which you can employ one or more, depending on your space.
First, take that boring, contractor-grade ceiling light and upgrade it to something better. We recommend finding something that goes with your home’s style aesthetic.
FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:
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Possini, Euro Adri 16.5″ Wide Handcrafted Glass Rustic Ceiling Light $279.99
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Crystorama, Rylee 16.5″ W Bronze & Wood Bead Ceiling Light $548
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Vienna Full Spectrum, Regina 15.25″ W Brass Crystal Ceiling Light $299.99
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Possini, Euro Reese 13.5″ W Modern Glass LED Ceiling Light $199.99
Next, consider some ambient light options in the form of wall lights. These could be a single, long light, or two matching sets. One thing we don’t recommend is going entirely matchy matchy with your ceiling light. That’s most definitely an out of trend style.
FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:
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Possini, Lighting on the Square 15.5″ Bronze Wall Sconces (set of 2) $279.99
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Quoizel, Inglenook 16″ W Tiffany Style Pocket Wall Sconce $176
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Possini, Sian 19.5″ H Antique Brass Half-Moon Wall Sconce (set of 2) $229.99
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Vienna Full Spectrum, Cesenna Cylinder 16″ H Modern Crystal Wall Sconce $149.99
#6 – A CLEAR PATH
Adding a rug to the entryway does more than just establishing a clear path for your guests. It literally grounds the room, and can help tie in a variety of colors and patterns, along with reinforcing your home aesthetic. Editor’s tip: getting an indoor/outdoor rug can be especially helpful if your entryways sees a lot of foot traffic and/or your region of the country sees a lot of snow or rain.
FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:
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Designer Looks Furniture, Malaga Indoor/Outdoor Area Rug 2′ x 6′ Runner $55.99
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Loloi, Optimism OPT-03 Denim & Sunset Wool 2′ 6″ x 7′ 6″ $189
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Bilboa, Indoor Outdoor Area Rug 2′ x 8′ $47.99
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Oriental Weavers, Southwest Dark Area Rug 5’3″ x 7’6″ $299
#5 – A PLACE TO HANG YOUR HAT
The practical reason for an entryway is to give your guests a quick and easy way for them to hang their belongings. This can be something as simple as a coat rack and umbrella stand to an elegant built-in hall tree complete with storage nooks. The dimensions of your space will of course dictate the size of your functional storage, but here are some inspirations. Editor’s Tip: Can’t find an umbrella stand you like? Try using a tall planter or vase instead (just be sure the opening is at least 12″ wide).
FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:
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Modway, Gumball Hanging Coat Rack $60.99 and Luxenhome, White Geometric Patter 22″ Tall Planter/Vase $99.99
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Lamps Plus, Mission 36″ W Walnut Hall Tree Storage Bench $375.91 and Winsome, Rex Umbrella Stand w/Metal Tray $69.99
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Conway, Large Hall Tree $424.99 and Timbergirl, Handpainted Wood Umbrella Stand $69.99
#4 – A LITTLE GREEN GOES A LONG WAY
Not only is it very on trend right now (thanks to the Organic Design movement) but a touch of greenery in your entryway adds warm and sophistication your guests will appreciate. In fact there are several cultures that believe having certain plants in your entryway will bring you anything from good luck to protection from negative spirits. Editor’s Tip: Not enough natural light for a living plant? Use a good quality artificial one instead.
FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:
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Dahlia Studios, Off-White Orchid 16″ H Faux Flowers in Green Stripe Pot $16.98
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Lamps Plus, Green Artificial Monstera 48″ H Plant in Pot $84.91
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Designer Looks Furniture, Faux 6′ T Areca Palm Plant w/Black Sanibel Planter $499.99
#3 – HAVE A SEAT
If space permits, including a small seating area near the entryway can provide a convenient spot for guests to remove or put on shoes and can make them feel more at home. A single seat for a smaller area, a bench or a couple of chairs with comfortable cushions for medium and larger spaces.
FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:
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Designer Looks Furniture, Jenner Accent Chair $1,039.99
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55 Downing Street, Verana 42.5″ W Black Finish Modern Bent Bamboo Wood Bench $349.99
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TOV Furniture, Kenya Bright Blue Velvet Waterfall Style Bench $349
#2 – PERSONAL TOUCHES
Adding personal touches like artwork, photographs, or decorative accents that reflect your style will make your entryway feel much more personalized. These items can spark conversation and make guests feel more connected to the space. It could be something as simple as a few choice pictures or as elegant as a grand mirror or sculptures.
FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:
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River Parks Studio, Castallia Gold 28″ Round Metal Wall Clock $59.95
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iCanvas, Bob Marley at Roxy, Los Angeles 1976 by Rue Des Archives $114.99
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Jonathan Alder, Eden Snake-Print Tray $342
#1 – PLEASANT SCENTS
Finally, consider incorporating subtle fragrances in the entryway to create a welcoming ambiance. You can use scented candles, essential oil diffusers, or fresh flowers to introduce pleasant smells that greet your guests. Remember, the goal is to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes guests feel comfortable and welcomed as soon as they enter your home.
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