Ideas for Entryways in Small Spaces

Even a tiny entryway that is not defined and opens directly into your living room can create a big impact if you design it correctly. With the proper organization, you can design your small space entryway to give a grand entrance into your home, simply by investing a few hours of your time. Does this Spark an idea?

Scale

Proportion the furniture to the room. A small entryway requires furniture that balances the size of the furniture pieces to the dimensions of the room; however, one or two large-scale pieces within the room can create a huge impact. Choose tall furniture to take advantage of the vertical space, but make sure it's narrow so it provides ample room to walk in the entryway. The trick is to use all the area in a small space as you build your design up the wall.

Furniture

Find furniture that does double duty in a small space. A thin console table takes up little width and gives you storage options beneath and above it. You could also place a drop-leaf table in the entryway. This provides an extra dining or work table when needed. A storage bench provides seating for removing wet boots and also gives backpacks, briefcases and other small items a place to hide while still remaining accessible.

Walls

A large mirror opposite a window brings light into the foyer and also expands the space visually. Wall shelving units, placed above a table or bench, provide space to showcase a collection of rocks, snow globes or family photos. They can also hold a collection of designated baskets for the outgoing or ingoing mail, keys, electronic devices, scarves and hats. Attach hooks to the wall, and hang clothing, backpacks or umbrellas, thus freeing up floor space. Looped brackets can hold wet boots placed upside down, purses or other shoes.

Decoration

Go bold with the wall treatment for a lasting impact, such as a glittery damask fabric or wallpaper, or go for a cozy look with a deep eggplant purple or midnight blue. The unexpected touch brings in the "wow" factor. Place a small but elaborate chandelier above with a tall flower arrangement below to draw the eye upward. Place crystal wall sconces on each side of the entryway or a tall sculpture on a pedestal in the corner. A large framed poster can fill the wall opposite the table, drawing attention to it and not the small space.