How To Make Sure Your Entryway Decor Is Always Practical And Beautiful

An entryway is a visual introduction and transition point to the rest of your home — and one of the easiest spaces to get wrong. That's because a lot rides on it. After guests walk a couple of feet inside for the first time, they can't help but make mental notes about your personal style and taste. They aren't paying attention to the size of your entryway as much as how it makes them feel. If it's messy, you and your guests can feel a sense of chaos that's hard to shake, regardless of how the other rooms look inside. So, making your entryway everything it possibly can be is super important. 

Your home's entryway is prone to clutter by design. It's the first space between the outside world and your sanctuary so they act like drop zones for junk mail, backpacks, keys, and tangled dog leashes. Creating an entryway that's just as practical as it is pretty comes down to a few smart decor pieces. For example, a durable rug creates defined zones and a console table makes an easy place to store your keys. A cohesive design isn't out of reach, and you won't have to sacrifice style for practicality. 

Whether your entryway is spacious or compact, there are qualities that practical and beautiful ones have in common. When you're ready to say goodbye to the eyesore of entryway clutter and hello to a space that works with you, these are the best ways to make it happen.

When a total reno isn't in the foreseeable future, smart decor choices can fill the void in your entryway without overwhelming the space. For starters, your entryway should have a designated place to unload stuff as you walk in. A console table makes the perfect drop spot, especially to leave your keys. If you're short on floor space, consider a wall shelf. But look for one that won't wreck your home's first impression. 

Although it might sound impractical for an entryway, having a place to sit to put on your shoes or take them off will be a convenience you'll be happy you didn't skip. An entryway bench can check two boxes: A place to sit and an extra layer of storage. But don't discount adding something simple like a small stool.

To define the space, you'll want an entryway rug. It not only protects your floors, but it anchors the area and visually separates the entryway from the rest of the house. Rugs are an important entryway detail that can make or break the design, so put some thought into it. Next, every great entryway has a mirror. It gives you a last look before heading out the door and can make small spaces look bigger by catching the light filtering inside. Whether it's full-length or has a heavy ornate frame, a wall mirror is a must to make your entryway ooze with style and practicality.