The Design Tip That Makes Your Small Entryway Feel Bigger

If you have a small entryway, you know it can quickly start feeling cramped and uninviting. As it's the first thing people see when they walk into your home, this is the exact opposite of the impression you want your hallway to leave. Unfortunately, when you add all the necessary entryway elements like coat hangers, shoe racks, or a console to put your keys on, it's easy to accidentally clutter this small space. But that doesn't mean you can't try a couple of design tricks to give the space a larger, more welcoming feel. For starters, you can make a small entryway feel bigger by adding a thoughtfully chosen area rug.

To ensure the rug will make your entryway feel more spacious, you can't go with just any option. The key is to choose the right size, color, and pattern. With the right combination of design elements, you can quickly transform this small, awkward space into a bright, airy, and inviting area.

First things first: Determine what size rug you need for your entryway. Because the ideal size depends on the exact dimensions of your entryway, there's no one standard rug size made for these small spaces. Instead, you need to measure the length and width of your entryway and take it from there. For the best results, choose a rug that runs the length of the hallway, but doesn't cover it fully in width. A couple of inches of equally visible floor on each side of the rug will create a sense of balance while still allowing for a more spacious feel.

When it comes to color, opt for lighter hues. Dark colors can make a small space feel even more boxed in, whereas lighter shades reflect light to create a brighter, more airy feel. Depending on your preferences and the rest of your home's color palette, soft neutrals, pastels, or even bright whites are all great color choices. And if you want to spice things up a bit, use a patterned rug to expand the look of your small entryway while adding visual interest. Vertical stripes and similar patterns are the way to go to visually elongate the space.

When you have your entryway rug all picked out, try pairing it with other decor elements within the space. For example, incorporate artwork in hues and style similar to your rug. This will give the space a more cohesive look and amp up the welcoming vibe, in addition to the newly enhanced spaciousness.