Your Hallway Could Be The Secret To Declutter Your House (It's An Entryway Alternative)

If you're looking for a strategy that works best to declutter your home, but your lack of entryway is causing chaos — with shoes and bags ending up scattered across the living room (and we won't even mention how many times you've lost your keys in all that mess) — then we've got a surprising solution: your hallway. It's been right in front of you the whole time, but it may have never occurred to you that it might be used as anything other than a passing-through lane. Instead, treat it like a room and turn it into a welcoming, functional entryway alternative.

Who knows why some homes are built without an entryway? If you have a hallway near the front or back door, you can most certainly make your own. It helps to start by cleaning up the space. Remove as much as you can from the hallway, like slippers you kicked off this morning or that bag of books from the library you haven't put away yet. Vacuum or sweep the floor so you're starting with a dirt-free foundation. You might even consider painting the walls or adding a stylish wallpaper to really define the new space, and then you're ready for the real transformation.

Add the functional pieces first, to really turn this hallway into an entryway that works. A shallow shelf with hooks underneath is a great item to add. The hooks can hold jackets, hats, bags, or even the dog's leash. The shelf is for smaller items like a wallet, letters to be mailed, or to set your cup of coffee on while you put on your shoes. Speaking of which, placing a slim bench along the wall allows you to sit down while pulling your shoes on or off. You can also add a small shoe rack or mat under the bench to store them. Lay a washable runner rug down the hallway floor to make cleaning a breeze.

Now that you've got a functional hallway (aka your entryway alternative), you can add some pieces that make it more welcoming and let your personality to shine in the space. Hang a fun mirror to add light and give the appearance of a larger space. Plus, it lets you get that last look before running out of the house. Posting a calendar or wall-hanging organizer can add style and function. For real pizazz, include your favorite art and create the perfect gallery wall across from the bench seat so you have something to welcome you home or put you in a good mood as you head out.