How Fixer Upper's Joanna Gaines Prevents Entryway Clutter Before It Starts

Celebrity interior designer Joanna Gaines has shared so many hacks for the entryway through the years. From Gaines' game-changing tip for choosing an entryway paint color to décor ideas, the "Fixer Upper" host clearly knows a lot about maximizing the potential of this part of the home. However, as a high-traffic area that typically serves as a dumping ground for various items upon entering the house, the entryway is very prone to clutter. But as expected, Gaines has the perfect solution to prevent entryway clutter before it starts: installing doors on open shelving.

On her Magnolia blog, the television personality discussed how she made a Southwestern-inspired foyer inviting, functional, and clutter-free with this hack. "To help hide the extra clutter that can collect in entryways, we installed custom-made shaker doors on existing open shelving," she wrote before noting that they — Joanna and her contractor husband Chip Gaines — used antiqued brass hardware on the doors, perhaps to give them a more timeless and sophisticated appeal. They also added a built-in bench seat by the window between the shelves, styling it with corbels and an upholstered cushion that used a repurposed flatware jute rug as cover. Entryways are susceptible to a buildup of many things, like shoes, jackets, bags, and mail. By installing doors to the existing open shelving, Gaines not only provided a means for the homeowners to hide such items out of plain sight, but she also elevated the overall look of the space.

You do not need custom-built shaker doors to achieve a similar effect as Joanna Gaines' clutter-prevention hack for the entryway. Installing flat doors on open shelving will do the trick. If you're tight on budget, you don't need to install hardware either. Leaving out door handles creates an ultra-minimalist look, which goes well with the clutter-free design of the foyer or entryway.

There are many creative storage ideas for a clutter-free entryway, so you can customize this hack to suit your space. Instead of attaching doors to cubby storage shelves, you can opt for labeled weave baskets since they can also hide items and keep the space tidy. Adding a bench creates a convenient perch for putting on shoes. Plus, you can put storage bins for shoes and seasonal gear underneath it.

Other tips for making your entryway more functional and organized include placing catch-all bowls on your shelving. These will be useful for grab-and-go items like house keys, car keys, and other random objects. Whether you're dealing with a narrow hallway or a spacious mudroom, the goal is the same: Tuck away clutter and make guests feel welcome the moment they step inside. With Gaines' hack and a few smart upgrades, your entryway can be both tidy and functional.