First Impressions - Entryways + Foyers
Photo by elaine fredrick photography
You open the front door and it's the first space you experience when you arrive home. It's where you greet guests, kick off muddy shoes, drop your bags after a long day, and find comfort in the familiar feeling of home. Since your entryway works so hard every day, it deserves just as much attention as any other room. A well-designed entry should feel welcoming, function effortlessly, and offer a glimpse into the style of the home beyond. Here's how to create an entry that does all three.
The Function – Console Table
Your entry should make every day routines easier. A console table provides a convenient place to drop keys, wallets, mail, and bags while also serving as the first opportunity to introduce your home's style. A console table works well in most entryways without obstructing traffic flow. Leave at least 36" of clear walking space between the console table and the opposite wall. Here are some variations of console tables that we love.
We love the baskets below that add storage for bigger items like bags or shoes or hats.
CONSOLE TABLE BY POTTERY BARN + BASKETS BY THE CONTAINER STORE
Drawers are perfect for the small stuff like wallets, keys, sunglasses or a dog leash.
CONSOLE TABLE BY BIRCH LANE
Tiny but mighty. For smaller spaces, these storage cabinets have a small footprint but plenty of storage opportunities hidden behind doors and in drawers.
STORAGE CABINET BY BIRCH LANE
The Function – Bench
A bench provides a comfortable place to sit while putting on or removing shoes. Models with built-in storage are even better for keeping shoes, baskets, or seasonal accessories tucked away. These are a couple of our favorites.
Simple and classic. The open shelf below allows for easy access to shoes, bags or other must-have items.
BENCH BY POTTERY BARN
We love this bench because it combines functionality with aesthetics. Baskets below can catch shoes, hats, bags - you name it - and it’ll be neatly hidden away.
BENCH BY BIRCH LANE
The Function – Outerwear Storage
Whether you're heading out the door or welcoming guests inside, having a designated place for coats and outerwear keeps your entry organized and clutter-free. There’s the classic coat tree that never disappoints, wall mounted hooks, or an enclosed cabinet if space allows.
COAT TREE + HOOKS BY POTTERY BARN CABINET BY BALLARD DESIGNS
The Style – Entry Rug
These days, a durable entry rug does not mean it has to be dark and boring. There are countless options that will look great and can handle the wear and tear of a busy front door. Material-wise, we recommend a synthetic material like polypropylene or polyester. Synthetics are water-resistant, tough, and easy to clean. Wool is another great choice because of its durability, softness and ability to hide dirt.
RUG (LEFT) BY RUGGABLE + RUG (RIGHT) BY JAIPUR LIVING
A flatweave or low-pile rug is ideal because dirt and debris stay on the surface, making it much easier to vacuum or shake clean. Machine washable rugs are becoming very popular and are a great choice in an entry. Choosing a patterned rug is also a great choice because it distracts from the muddy boots, pet paws and inevitable daily dust. Choose a rug large enough that the front door can fully open without catching on it.
The Style – Wall Décor
Once the functional pieces are in place, it's time to add personality. Bringing visual interest to the walls of your entry is not only aesthetically pleasing but it also defines your space and makes a statement right as you walk in. A large mirror also reflects light, making an entry feel brighter and more spacious while providing one last glance before heading out the door. Hang the center of the mirror about 60–65" from the floor.
MIRROR (LEFT) BY TARGET + MIRROR (RIGHT) BY SERENA AND LILY
Framed wall art is another perfect way to add personality and set the tone for the rest of your home. It gives your eye someplace to land upon entering, and it turns a plain space into something with interest and style.
The Style - Accessories
Accessories are what transform an entry from functional to welcoming. A decorative bowl corrals keys and everyday essentials, a table lamp adds warmth and ambient lighting, while woven baskets provide hidden storage for shoes, scarves, or reusable shopping bags. Style your console with varying heights; a tall lamp or vase, a medium-height stack of books, and a lower decorative object all work together to create visual balance.
TABLE LAMP AND BASKET BY BIRCH LANE + SHELL BOWL BY AT HOME
PHOTO BY ELAINE FREDRICK PHOTOGRAPHY
A thoughtfully designed entryway balances beauty and practicality. By combining hardworking furniture with carefully chosen accessories, you create a space that welcomes guests, simplifies everyday routines, and sets the tone for the rest of your home. After all, first impressions aren't just for guests, they're for you every time you walk through the front door.