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The Anatomy Of An Entryway: 5 Foolproof Formulas AND Our Favorite Shoppable Picks

Sometimes a post really hits. And while we are ALWAYS pumped, we aren’t always sure what the exact magic sauce was (especially if it was a little unexpected aka not the mountain house kitchen). One of these was Emily’s entryway reveal. We looked at all of the data to come to the conclusion that maybe people are just really into their entryways. Which I actually get. A pretty entryway is psychologically important. Why? Well if it’s a mess when you leave then you are already bummed/stressed about seeing it when you get back. And when the first area you see when you get home is not the way you want it to look, it really can drag down your mood. Honestly, the world is in too much chaos to not have our homes bring us as much peace as possible, right? So while the boxes I need to put in the recycling dumpster and the large blanket I need to return to my dad are mocking me daily, when it’s clean, I LOVE walking into my home, seeing my entry and feeling a sense of calm (or as calm as 2021 will allow).

I want that for everyone. So I did the necessary EHD research, realized we have 5 favorite entryway formulas that we repeat ALL THE TIME, and then put together arguably too many shoppable options (I really couldn’t stop myself). So, no matter the size entry you have, you can come home, rip off that mask, take a deep breath, and feel peace because your entry is on point. No more clutter body.

But before we get into the formulas this is what we think every entry needs:

  • Function (because form is great until you have nowhere to throw your third pair of shoes that you can’t be bothered to take allll the way to your room)
  • Mixed materials (for texture and visual interest)
  • Varied levels (also for visual interest)

Formula #1: Bench + Basket + Wall Feature

This one is one of the simplest because it only requires three elements and nothing electrical. However, it’s SO functional. I am a huge kick-your-shoes-off-the-moment you-get-home kina gal so having a shoe bin is imperative for me to have an “organized” entry. Emily is also very team shoe bin as shown above.

But first, let’s talk benches. The bench is your main piece and sets the tone for the rest of your house. So choosing the right bench will not only give you a great place to sit but also an awesome opportunity to show off your style (bonus points for cute pillows). These are some of our favorites:

1. Pax Black Natural Bench | 2. Bodhi King Bench, Bronze | 3. Woven Rope Indoor Bench | 4. Wood and Leather Bench | 5. Baro Wood Entryway Storage Bench | 6. Walking Bench | 7. Shaker Dining Bench | 8. Georg Bench | 9. Skye Upholstered Bench | 10. Amicable Split 60″ Bench | 11. Verken Mid Century Modern Settee Bench | 12. küdd:krig HOME Capsule Bench

#1 and #9 are awesome because their upholstered tops really make a bold and colorful statement. #5 is pretty great because it’s a bench and bin all in one so it’s perfect for smaller entries or simply for extra storage. But #4, #6, #10 and #12 take what could be a simple wooden bench and really make them into something SO special.

Large baskets are SUCH a good long term purchase. They can be used for a near limitless amount of things… heck, even as a pretty planter cover. I would just make sure for your entry, make note of the number of shoes that normally collect by your door and then adjust your basket size needs accordingly.

1. Garissa Basket | 2. HURRING | 3. Woven Felt Rectangular Basket with Faux Leather Handles| 4. Mercado Storage Basket | 5. Tall Striped Basket | 6. Big Sur Basket | 7. Large Banana Delilah Tote Basket | 8. Steele Canvas 1-1/2 Bushel Basket | 9. Tambo Basket | 10. Woven Seagrass Basket | 11. Natural Banana Leaf Harper Basket with White Macrame| 12. Small Basket with Round Handles | 13. Seagrass Basket | 14. Merapi Storage Basket | 15. TAMADUNI

I LOVE #1, #4, #14, and #15 so much. But for those who want something neutral with a lot of texture, #11 with the macrame detail is the way to go. However, #8 is the EHD classic and has multiple versions and colors (there’s even an option with wheels).

Hot Tip

Make sure your basket is a different height than the overall height of your bench... but keeping it shorter than the seat of the bench is our rec.

Formula #2: Entry Cabinet + Mirror + Sconce + Tall Vase

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: styling to sell – the final entry reveal (that’s real estate agent approved)

Next up, we have a formula with a bit more drama (and more closed storage). While a single basket is enough entry storage for some of us, if you have the space and want to up the storage, consider an entry cabinet. Sure you can’t sit on it. BUT it’s the ultimate catchall.

These are some great options…

1. Quinn Lacquer Entry Cabinet | 2. Miller 43.5″ Wide Buffet Table | 3. Matte Black Standard Rectangle Composite Console Table with Cabinet | 4. Gabi Rattan Entryway Cabinet | 5. Perch Marble Entry Cabinet | 6. Libby Small Cabinet | 7. HEMNES | 8. Live Edge Wood And Gold Metal Sloan Sideboard | 9. OSCURO | 10. Coles | 11. Industrial Storage Dresser | 12. Lap Credenza

You first want to think about your needs. Are you a drawer person where #7 and #11 would be your go-to? Or would a cabinet with doors and bins inside be a better fit like, well the rest of these? I personally LOVE #3, #5, #9, and #12. Can you tell I have a hard time choosing my favorite of anything?

1. Inman Venetian Accent Mirror | 2. Brinley Mirror | 3. Corin Rattan Round Wall Mirror | 4. Hub Oval Mirror | 5. Round Decorative Wall Mirror | 6. Woven Mirror Artwork | 7. Beveled Hub Wall Mirror | 8. Hutcheson Arch Mirror | 9. Perch Round Mirror With Shelf | 10. Wall Mirror | 11. MERON | 12. Acacia Wood Mirror | 13. Hub Modern and Contemporary Accent Mirror | 14. Victor Leather Mirror | 15. Rattan Arched Wall Mirror 

Mirrors and entryways are THE power couple. Art is wonderful and I will never vote against a beautiful piece of art. BUT a mirror is not only functional, so you don’t miss the fact that maybe you forgot to brush your hair as you hurry out the door, it also will reflect more light around your space. Also, you can easily “go big” without it looking overwhelming. For something classic and affordable, #5 is great. You may recognize #6 from this makeover we love:) I also have a real soft spot for #2 and #10.

design and photo by malcolm simmons

1. Berkshire Single Sconce with Linen Shades | 2. Wood and Concrete Hayes Wall Sconce | 3. Double Cone Brass Bowtie Wall | 4. Wall Sconce With Neutral Beige Rattan Shades, Black Metal Finish | 5. Arney Sconce | 6. Leggero Champagne Pole Wall Sconce | 7. Claremont Milk Glass Cylinder Sconce | 8. Arc Mid-Century Sconce | 9. Nodes Large Angled Sconce | 10. Novogratz Addison Single Light 15″ Tall Wall Sconce | 11. Arney Articulating Sconce | 12. Alabax Small Sconce | 13. Whare Sconce in Various Colors | 14. Black Vanity Light | 15. Matte Black Plug-In or Hardwire Wall Sconce

Now the sconces are probably my favorite part of this formula because I really love cool lighting. I mean look at Malcolm’s entry above! Those sconces are incredible. They are also nice for mood lighting at night when you only want some lights on (HOT TIP: install a dimmer if you can). But as for the roundup, I also love #2, #5, and #11 for something modern and #1, #10, and #12 for a more traditional look.

I didn’t include a tall vases roundup in this formula but I do later so get excited:)

Formula #3: Entry Cabinet + Table Lamp + Wall Art + Short Vase

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: sara’s living and dining room reveal

With this formula, it’s basically the little sibling to #2 but equally as great. You still have your wonderful cabinet but instead of a sconce you have a lovely table lamp (which personally is actually my favorite type of light) and instead of a tall dramatic vase you have a smaller more delicate one. Also, while a mirror is a solid go-to for an entry, you can’t forget about the power of art. You can choose something large, a few small pieces, or even a small gallery wall. No rules. That’s it so let’s shop!

1. Ivory Reactive Glaze Pedestal Vase | 2. Round Earthenware Vase Gray | 3. Celia White Vase | 4. Large Stone Vase | 5. Sandy Mole Ceramic Table Vase | 6. Hand Turned Wood Bud Vase | 7. Rustic Brown Vase | 8. Little Gem Bud Vase | 9. Ceramic Vase | 10. Wide Mouth Glass Vase | 11. ORIGAMI | 12. Full Moon Clay Vase by Leanne Ford

Vases (especially the shorter ones) are such a fun way to bring in personality to a design. #2, #5, and #7 are quietly bold which I love. Then #3 and #11‘s verticle ribbing is a fun but elegant accent.

photo by david tsay | from: my best friend’s los feliz home

1. Dublin 26.5″ Standard Table Lamp | 2. White Abstract Ceramic Lyra Table Lamp Base | 3. Downbridge Table Lamp | 4. Bond Lamp | 5. Valencia LED Task Lamp | 6. Rustic Terracotta Table Lamp Base | 7. Modern Wood Column Table Lamp | 8. Linus Table Lamp Antique Black | 9. Lighting 30-inch Giselle Adjustable Black/ Gold Task Table Lamp | 10. Graduate Lamp | 11. Remi Blue Linen Table Lamp | 12. Rigdon USB Table Lamp

Hello, lover (in Carrie Bradshaw’s sultry voice)! #1 looks like it would give the most beautiful glow in the evening and for such a unique lamp, that price is not bad. #4 is one of Emily’s all-time favorites because well that blue lampshade is basically iconic at this point. BUT #12 will give off a beautiful light but will also charge your phone which seems GENIUS since you can charge your phone and easily grab it on your way out.

Formula #4: Tulip Table + Tall Vase

photo by christopher dibble | from: 12 tips to make a spec home, special…with max humphrey

This one is the most straight forward but does require you have a decent-sized entryway (and likely a mudroom to store your shoes). However, in this photo, those stools might act as storage. VERY smart and sneaky, Max🙂

Why we love this look is because of how simple yet stunning it is. The beautiful shape of the table plus the tall vase with even taller greenery is graphic but feel. Basically, it’s a slam dunk. Side note: You can also add a tray or bowl if you want a little something extra:)

Ok, let’s talk tulips…

1. Capsule Dining Table | 2. DOCKSTA | 3. Marble Top Leilani Tulip Dining Table | 4. 24″ Round Pedestal Dining Table, Blackened Oak Wood Top | 5. Artificial Marble Veneer Top with Strong Tulip Style Metal Pedestal Base | 6. 36″ Somerset Wood Top Round Dining Table | 7. Clay Dining Table | 8. Small Eero Saarinen for Knoll Tulip Side Table | 9. Grove Marble Round Bistro Table | 10. White Marble Round Bistro Table | 11. Odyssey Brass Wood Table | 12. Oak Torsion Dining Table

I don’t know about you but I can’t HANDLE how beautiful #1 is. That wood accent makes my heart skip a beat every time I look at it. 10/10. I also think that #5, #10, and #11 are fun and slightly unexpected versions. However, a classic is a classic for a reason so #2 and #6 will always be a great buy.

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: portland project: the entry & staircase reveal

See I told you the vases were coming up:)

1. Terra Cotta Vase | 2. Dual Vase | 3. Large White Textured Ecomix Vase | 4. TIDVATTEN | 5. Afloral Tall Watertight Terracotta Vase | 6. Ruff White Vase | 7. SIN Cenote Vase | 8. Brass Hurricane Vase | 9. Tall Amber Vase

I think about buying #2 about once a week but sadly just don’t have the right spot for her. BUT if you do, then you 10000000% should. Now for something more neutral #6 and #7 are quiet but special.

Formula #5: Console Table + Short Vase + Chair + Table Lamp + Wall Art

photo by david tsay | from: styled: secrets for arranging rooms, from tabletops to bookshelves

We made it! This last one has a little bit of everything. It has a place to sit, a catchall table, a light source, and of course some accessories. Now I didn’t add a basket into this formula but you absolutely could.

Ok, let’s jump right in…

1. Warwick Narrow Console Table | 2. 2 Tone Grey and White Marble Console | 3. Niche Burl Wood Console Table | 4. Profile Console | 5. Live Edge Wood Sansur Console Table | 6. Parsons Table | 7. Bixby Console | 8. Waterfall Edge Two Tier Console Table in Burl Wood | 9. Lau Console Table | 10. Streamline Console | 11. Woodson Console Table | 12. Swish Console Desk

We love console tables because they are visually a bit lighter and tend to be more physically slender which is great for an entryway the needs that (and a lot do). If you don’t need drawers or are into maybe some smaller shelf baskets then #1, #4, #8, and #11 are awesome options. But if you want something with that “extra something” then #3 and #7 (it’s wrapped in fabric!) then I would suggest those.

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: the no-reno house that looks Completely renovated

1. Taylorsville Spindle Accent Chair | 2. Kaishi Black Chair | 3. Aesop Armchair | 4. Cleo Chair | 5. Sunnyvale Woven Accent Chair | 6. Morpho Swivel Velvet Arm Chair | 7. Ingrid Dining Chair | 8. Nadia White Cane Chair | 9. Charcoal Gray And Ivory Dash Print Noemi Tub Chair

Accent chairs have SUCH a special place in my heart and it kills me that I hardly have space for the very small one in my living room. SO if you have an entryway that can handle an accent chair DO IT! Just make sure to consider the scale of your console table and your chair so that one doesn’t overpower the other.

Now let’s get specific. As soon as I saw #3 I immediately sent it to Julie and simply blurted out, “LOOK!!!!!” I mean, it’s juuuust so good. So that chair aside #6, and #4, #2, and #7 are great modern picks. BUT if you want a little extra cushion and boldness then #9 is the way to go.

We are at the end! I hope that this was really helpful and makes you feel like designing an entryway is now a breeze. Now I know I didn’t get heavily into accessorizing but remember less is more. Maybe a small framed pic and a tray added are all you need atop your cabinet (in addition to your cute vase)! Don’t overthink it. Also, these formulas are guidelines. If you want to add a shoe bin next to your console, do it. If you want to add a sconce over your bench, I think that could look great! It’s up to you.

And to make life a little clearer and pinnable here is a graphic I made. Enjoy!

Love you, mean it. 🙂

Opening Image Credit: Photo by Tessa Neustadt | From: How We Styled Our Living Room To Sell

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I really loved this post more than I thought! Thanks for breaking this down. And I’ve learned that function in an entryway (as long as form for the happiness of your eyeballs) is so insanely important and you have to really think about the needs for that space. Our entryway is ever changing as I think of new ways to really make it functional. Three and a half years ago, when I was actually still writing on my blog, I did a “function makeover” of our entryway. It made a big difference. A bench is a game changer. It’s a necessary dumping ground : ) and place to sit to take on and off shoes. I still have not figured out a good solution for side tables though. I put the IKEA stools in there because it was easy and functional, but it’s all too leggy over there, with the legs of the bench. I’m thinking a solid no leg side table would be better. If you’re interested in seeing it, this is the link: https://honeymoonvintage.com/homeblog/2017/3/6/our-newly-functional-entryway-makeover-final-reveal Our front door opens right into our living room, with no real “entryway”, so I made the first wall walking in after the closet… Read more »

Also, that #3 Jungalow vase is AMAZING. And, don’t forget to consider vintage pieces as an option! Craigslist and FB Marketplace are like gold mines.

Rusty
3 years ago

I. Love. This!💗💗💗

katy
4 years ago

What do you think about a cabinet that is 47″ high? I love this one: https://www.zola.com/shop/product/creativecoop_2door_woven_rattan_cabinet but worry that it’s too high to put a mirror above it with a lamp and vase on top. Would love to hear opinions!

Hilary
4 years ago

I legit want to buy one of everything in these round ups, even though I love the items in my entryway. These pieces would be great anywhere and the price points offer great options. These are the posts I love so much from EHD.

Annie
4 years ago

I love this so much! I stare at my entry space and try to figure out what to do with it every day. It’s a cape cod with stairs in the middle, so you only have about 5 feet from the door to the stairs. And both sides of the stairs are walkways we can’t really get rid of.

Someday I’ll figure out the perfect table or bench to give a place to drop junk.

Lane
3 years ago
Reply to  Annie

I have a similar problem. My solution is to put a cabinet in the living room, which is directly connected to the entry corridor.

Annie Witzmann
4 years ago

I love these entries so much but my wall and stair case is curved. Do you have any posts that show that?

Roberta Davis
3 years ago
Reply to  Annie Witzmann

I think the tulip table option would work well in that situation, if you have enough room! Or a smaller round table.

laura
4 years ago

the reason I clicked the entryway post ASAP was more so due to the current needs of COVID. I have a *really small* space in my apartment. To be honest, the solutions here don’t really work with what I have to work with. I’m trying to make a type of cleaning zone as I live in a big city and don’t want to bring the outside germs into my apartment. The space I have to work with is the size of the back of my door, to place sanitizer, wipes, etc, hang clothes, and place shoes under. I was thinking of just getting one of those narrow entryway shelves with hooks underneath. Those don’t look as nice, so I’ve been looking for design & function, which this blogs helps with sometimes!
This was a nice aspirational roundup, though!

Meg
3 years ago
Reply to  laura

I ten thousand percent agree. As an apartment dweller, I’d love some chic organization options that don’t take up floorspace at all! I currently have an unsightly command hook with too many masks hanging on it.

MKP
3 years ago
Reply to  laura

This is nothing pretty, but what if you hung stuff right on the back of your door? That way you’d never really see it. Could be a set of cute hooks or if you have a lot to store – sanitizer, shoes, masks, hats, gloves, etc. you could get a shoe holder that has lots of pockets for various items. Again, this would be function over form for sure, but it could work well without taking up any floor space.

DeniseGK
3 years ago
Reply to  laura

I’m still so pissed that Apartment Therapy went off the rails. It was a great resource at one time! And no one else has really picked up the slack after the SEO marketing firm took over the management of AT. The fact that EH has employees who live in apartments and write posts from their experience is one of the main reasons I come here daily. This blog does help quite a bit (and the commenters do a lot to help to!) but it’s not as comprehensive or deep a resource for apartment dwellers as the old AT, bc that’s just not what this blog *is*. Sigh, I’m sure someone will pick up the torch eventually, but I’m impatient. 🙂

Linds
4 years ago

I live in an apartment in a big city – none of these would fit in my entry way. What about smaller spaces? Specifically, shoe rack, coat rack, smaller mirror, etc.

Susanna
4 years ago

Some entry consoles with drawers can do double-duty as a desk, a nice twofer for those of us in smaller spaces.

I’m fascinated that three of the five formulas do not include the ability to sit as part of their functionality. I have friends with no seating in their entry, but for me a chair or bench to help with putting on or removing shoes is priority #1.

Abby
4 years ago

I love this article but the “love you, mean it” at the end makes me cringe every time I read it. It sounds so condescending. Please, we’re adults here. Change the signature.

kelly
4 years ago
Reply to  Abby

I think its cute! how about you not tell someone to change their signature.

Abby
4 years ago
Reply to  kelly

You’re right- I shouldn’t have said change the signature.

Alice
4 years ago
Reply to  Abby

Just because you’re offended doesn’t mean you’re right.

I have that on a button and am thrilled that I have a reason to share.

Jessa
4 years ago
Reply to  Abby

Totally agree. It’s so disingenuous.

MJ
3 years ago
Reply to  Abby

I’m pretty sure she says that at the end of all her posts and it’s something her dad has said to her forever so it has personal meaning for her (I think I read this on another post). In any case, let’s not pick apart everyone’s comments just for the sake of being negative. This wasn’t constructive criticism. Yes, we are adults, but hopefully you can remember something you should have learned when you were a kid… if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all. This is free content and you are free to move along from anything you don’t like.

Anon
3 years ago
Reply to  Abby

I think the key word is “me” so it’s the work you have to do in order to not feel that way. Why do you feel that way? She can’t control your feelings only you can.

Roberta Davis
3 years ago
Reply to  Abby

Jess- I love it. It doesn’t make me cringe! 🙂

Anna Charles
3 years ago
Reply to  Abby

Hey, I like the signature!

MKP
3 years ago
Reply to  Abby

I like it! I think it’s sweet and funny. Makes me smile every time and I don’t find it disingenuous or condescending at all.

Devon Freeman
4 years ago

I love this so much! Any suggestions for which side an entryway should be on? My entryway opens up in a weird shape so wondering if you have any recs?!

mallory
4 years ago

We have that allmodern credenza (#8 on formula #2) and the quality shocked me for the price. The cubbies are big enough for a backpack and big tote or two, and the drawers are so useful. I’ve been with struggling styling it so this is super helpful! Thank you!

kim
4 years ago

You ladies are on fire, great picks for every price point too! I recently removed everything from my entryway but now I want to put somethings back!

Erin H
4 years ago

You forgot a formula! One for someone who has no room for furniture! 😁

StephanieZ
4 years ago

I’ve redone my entryway so many times but here the latest iteration- mcm secretary is great for storing lots in a small house and I love the wallpaper. https://www.flickr.com/photos/stephie2cool/48097935931/in/photolist-2ghfuDr-PE3pQ4-28rHzPb-Jhzd4d-wD3ihU

mandy
4 years ago

Such a fun and helpful post, I want that chair from CB2!

Emily
4 years ago

Great roundup! But…can anyone recommend a bench or console table that’s under 35” wide? I’ve been searching high and low for the right thing to fit my space and I can’t find anything! (The burl wood console from CB2 is pretty but would be too busy, I think.)

Lori
3 years ago
Reply to  Emily

I have the same issue. I’ve found looking for similarly shaped furniture meant for different purposes can help– like plant stand for the console table, footstool for the bench, etc. I suspect an upper cabinet IKEA hack could work for your console table situation too– if you don’t like the floating hanging look, you could add cute legs and then just a hidden wall anchor as tipping insurance. And they make drawers for their slim upper cabinets now, which adds a ton of functionality for dumping keys, etc.

DeniseGK
3 years ago
Reply to  Lori

Those are great ideas I had never thought of! (same problem)

Rachel
4 years ago

Does this work the same way if you’re in a small apartment and you enter right into your living space?

Jamie
4 years ago

I’d love suggestions on how to also deal with coats plus shoes which aren’t heavily featured in any of these suggestions. We have a very small entryway to our apt and have a coat rack and small mid century bench (single seat). We are trying to figure out a shoe storage solution that looks good but have limited space. I imagine wall hooks might be a cleaner look to the coat rack but we are renters so are trying to avoid putting something into the wall. Interested in suggestions that stylishly manage coats and shoes on a small wall (the corner is roughly 27” wide on each side). Many thanks!

Caity
4 years ago
Reply to  Jamie

Hi, a tall yet narrow armoire might work.

Rusty
3 years ago
Reply to  Jamie

Read Lovely’s comment and look at ger pics. She’s solved it!

Sheila
4 years ago

Beautiful. But what about rugs? For those of us anticipating snowy, slushy boots, how do we protect our floors and still have a stylish entryway? Would love your suggestions for great-looking yet hard-working rugs. Thanks!

4 years ago

I have been SEARCHING for a narrow, TALL, console table for about 2 years. The #6 oscuro table from article coming in at a whopping 35 inches might finally be our winner – WHY IS IT SO HARD TO FIND TALLER END AND CONSOLE TABLES???? (Coming from a short person at 5′ even).

Thank you! Hoping you guys get a commission for that find when I use your link!

DeniseGK
3 years ago
Reply to  Kayla

Oh, so you’re the other person hunting for the unicorn! Glad to know I’m not alone in the wilds.

Kim
4 years ago

There are probably different reasons the entryway post blew up but I’ll tell you mine – it was the experienced realtor weighing in. Don’t get me wrong, I really love bloggers and I am grateful for their knowledge and experience on so many topics, but I think there is a desire right now for what trained or licensed “experts” would say about blog topics after so many years of hearing the amateur point of view. The desire for more attainable, amateur, DIY viewpoints that drove us to blogs in the first place I think is now swinging back a bit to wanting to hear from the so-called “experts” again on some things. I am always curious what an architect or licensed designer with a degree would say about bloggers’ renos or layout changes, and so I was really curious what a realtor would have to say about a blogger’s choices as well.

DeniseGK
3 years ago
Reply to  Kim

Yes! I prefer to be very intentional about what topics I listen to a realtor about due to the craziness of the early 2000s (“it’s not your home, it’s an investment, you can’t do anything that will make you happy” was a real school of thought for a while), BUT, with that said, they are trained professionals. And they know what is going to create a problem for buyers during a tour or open house. I mean, if prospective buyers are bumping into furniture that is too big for the room and are overwhelmed by the stuff – the people living there are too. It’s just the prospective buyers are still annoyed by it, while the residents feel resigned or stymied. Fresh eyes can really help when we’ve convinced ourselves that “this is just how it’s going to be”.

Nancy
4 years ago

I love these kinds of posts – this one was great! I scoped my entry and I’m 80% and this helped think about refining. Keep these posts that expand our perspective and ideas coming.

Kristin
4 years ago

I (unkowingly) followed formula one, complete with stylish basket of baby toys rather than shoes and it really makes my hear happy. I have a small home so we borrow the bench for the living room or dining table when we have a party. Remember parties?! I miss them so!

Kristin
4 years ago
Reply to  Kristin

*typo- *makes my heart happy 🙂

lia
4 years ago

If I use cabinets, table lamps and short vases, should I use wall art or can I use mirror ?

DeniseGK
3 years ago
Reply to  lia

Either will work as long as you get something that goes with the rest of what you have in there – prioritize the style of the mirror or frames of the art, then correct size, then color (but only of stuff you already like, of course).

Christa
3 years ago

Entryways are hard, and I think the biggest reason why is that no matter what, you end up with some clutter. In my house we have a covered seating area outside the front door with a boot tray for shoe storage, and a hanging rack for wet gear. Inside entry space has a bench and art. For keys, bags and mail, I actually moved that part into the office/guest room that is directly off the entry, where I put a credenza with a mail tray and a key bowl. That way the daily clutter of life stays out of sight from the main living space where we can relax and entertain.

alexa
3 years ago

Entryway posts are always going to be popular because so many houses aren’t set up to have a useful entryway. My house for instance, has this narrow and shallow area which is mostly taken up by a giant radiator that needs to exist to heat most of the house. There is no nearby closet. We live in a cold climate, and need to figure out how to organize coats, shoes, keys, hats, etc. Ideally, WITHOUT making it a cluttered eyesore.

DeniseGK
3 years ago
Reply to  alexa

Ugh, you are so right! WHY did this happen? There has never been a time when people didn’t have ^^^ all that stuff ^^^ going on that they needed to deal with as soon as they got home from school/work/sports/freaking snow/whatever. Like, did a crazy person take over global home design and building OUAT and they dictated that everyone pretend the entry didn’t even exist? I know that there used to be dedicated entryway furniture that went out of style long enough that plenty of people forgot it even existed and how to use it, but some houses don’t even have room for that furniture if you *do* know about it (my house, sob).

AzureSongLA
3 years ago

I would like a round up of entryway light fixtures too. Mine is a functional but boring lantern. I need some ideas to spice it up (but maybe not go too crazy).

Shannon
3 years ago

Random ask – what is the source on the blue wover basket in the entryway of the no-reno renovation house? I could not love it more.

DeniseGK
3 years ago
Reply to  Shannon

Did you also follow the link under the picture to the post revealing that entire house? It’s not mentioned there either. However, her instagram *is*, you could reach out to her about it and see if she responds. Otherwise, try saving the picture to your computer. Then get on the internet and learn about using an image to search for similar images on google. It’s easy, don’t worry. The reveal post is only from last year so there is hope you can snag that basket! (I agree with you, it’s wonderful!)

Shannon
3 years ago
Reply to  DeniseGK

Great tips – thank you!!!

lia
3 years ago

i feel dejavu.. i remember reading about that 5 formula, i even copied one (#3)

Roberta Davis
3 years ago

In design school, our instructors would always talk about creating a sense of arrival- both outside at the door/porch, and inside in the foyer. I like thinking about it that way.

Lorii
3 years ago

Does anyone know where I can find storage stools like the ones shown with the tulip table? I’ve been looking for them since I saw the original post!

Jen
3 years ago

Wow, I’m sorry, but I am stunned. I mean, I know you are in California so you don’t need mittens, but still, don’t you have other stuff? Here are (some of) the functions I expect an entranceway to fill: Keep all the shoes, so they don’t get worn in the house (& slippers to change into when you walk in the door) Have a tray for shoes that are mucky when you come in Store hats, scarves, mittens, gloves, umbrellas, rain gear, sunglasses Provide a spot for things on their way out—to be mailed, taken to be repaired, returned to the library, whatever If I had a pet, this is where I’d keep their toys Store coats/jackets/blazers, and other toppers Store purses Store shopping bags and totes A place for keys, wallet, etc. A place to sit down to put my shoes on A message center for people coming home and reminding people of what needs to be done when they go out Store sports gear that doesn’t get used in the house (like my swimsuit, goggles, etc) Always have a mirror, full length if possible, so we can do one last check of how we look before we go… Read more »

Jen
3 years ago
Reply to  Jen

Yikes! Sorry about the formatting—had no idea all paragraph returns would be removed. I would’ve used semicolons or something if I’d realized.