29 Best Entryway Ideas
Let’s be real—your entryway is your home’s handshake.
It’s the first thing people see when they walk through your door, and you know what they say about first impressions.
Now, don’t stress. You don’t need to hire an interior designer or win a Pinterest award.
With a few smart tweaks, your entryway can go from “meh” to “wow” without draining your bank account or your sanity.
I’ve rounded up 29 of the best entryway ideas to help you nail that first impression.
Some are simple swaps, others are bigger upgrades, but all are doable and worth it.
1. Add a Statement Mirror
A big, bold mirror does more than just let you check if you’ve got spinach stuck in your teeth. It bounces light around and makes even the tiniest entryways feel more open. Pro tip: round mirrors add a softer vibe, while square or rectangular ones give a modern edge.
2. Create a Drop Zone
You know how keys and wallets have a magical ability to vanish right when you’re late? A little tray, basket, or wall hook system near the door saves you from the daily treasure hunt. Ever lost your keys five times in one week? Yeah, me too.
3. Layer in a Rug
A rug in the entryway isn’t just for looks—it also saves your floors from muddy shoes. Go for something durable and washable because, let’s be honest, this area takes a beating. Patterned rugs hide dirt like champs.
4. Use Bold Wallpaper
Why should powder rooms have all the fun? Wallpaper your entryway wall for instant personality. Whether it’s floral, geometric, or moody dark tones, it sets the vibe before anyone even takes off their shoes.
5. Install a Bench
Shoes and balancing acts don’t mix. A simple bench makes life easier. Bonus: tuck baskets or bins underneath for extra storage. Think form meets function.
6. Go Vertical with Hooks
If your entryway is smaller than a New York apartment kitchen, don’t panic. Wall hooks are your best friend. Hang coats, hats, and bags without taking up floor space. You can even get fancy ones that look like art.
7. Light It Up
Bad lighting ruins everything. A chic pendant, chandelier, or sconce instantly elevates your entryway. Plus, no one wants to trip over shoes in the dark, right?
8. Add Greenery
A little plant life makes the space feel alive. Go low-maintenance with snake plants or faux greenery if you don’t have the best track record with keeping things alive (no judgment, same here).
9. Show Off Art
Your entryway is basically a mini-gallery waiting to happen. Framed prints, family photos, or a statement canvas instantly make the space feel intentional. Ever notice how a blank wall just feels…sad? Fix that.
10. Style a Console Table
If you have the space, a slim console table is a game-changer. Add a lamp, tray, and maybe a vase. Suddenly, your entryway looks curated instead of chaotic.
11. Go for Open Shelving
Not into closed cabinets? Try open shelving. It gives you a place to display pretty baskets, books, or decor without looking too heavy. Just don’t use it as a dumping ground…guilty as charged once upon a time.
12. Hide Clutter with Cabinets
For those of us who live with chaos gremlins (aka kids or roommates), closed cabinets or lockers are lifesavers. Out of sight, out of mind.
13. Add Personality with a Runner
A long runner rug guides the eye through your entryway and adds warmth. Go colorful if you want a bold statement or neutral if you like a clean vibe.
14. Mix Textures
An entryway full of the same material feels flat. Combine wood, metal, fabric, and woven baskets to keep it interesting. Think cozy-meets-polished.
15. Make It Pet-Friendly
Got a dog? Add a basket for leashes, wipes, and toys so you’re not scrambling every time it’s walk-o’clock. Trust me, future you will thank present you.
16. Highlight with Paint
If wallpaper feels like too much commitment, go for a bold paint color. A deep navy or olive green wall behind a console table looks incredibly chic.
17. Use a Gallery Wall
Cluster a few smaller frames together instead of one big art piece. It feels collected and adds charm. IMO, this is also a sneaky way to show off your favorite travel photos without being that person.
18. Embrace Minimalism
Sometimes less is more. A sleek bench, a single piece of art, and a clean floor can look just as striking as a maximalist setup. Bonus: fewer things to dust.
19. Add Floating Shelves
Floating shelves offer storage and display without bulk. Line them with small baskets, candles, or books. Just don’t overload them unless you want the “IKEA collapse” look.
20. Incorporate a Shoe Rack
Instead of a messy pile by the door, opt for a stylish shoe rack or cubby system. It keeps things neat and saves you from tripping over sneakers at midnight.
21. Statement Lighting Fixture
Yes, lighting deserves another mention. A unique chandelier or oversized pendant sets the tone instantly. Ever walked into a house and just looked up because the light was that good? Exactly.
22. Go Rustic
Wooden benches, woven baskets, and black metal hooks create a cozy farmhouse entryway vibe. Add a plaid throw for extra charm. It’s giving “cabin chic.”
23. Go Modern
Prefer sleek? Think minimal lines, monochrome color schemes, and metallic accents. Simple, striking, and timeless.
24. Add a Bold Door
Don’t forget the actual door. Paint it a bright color (red, teal, mustard—go wild) or upgrade it with cool hardware. That first knock makes a statement.
25. Sneak in Storage
Tall baskets or storage ottomans make a stylish way to hide umbrellas, bags, or anything else you don’t want out in the open. Because yes, clutter is a vibe killer.
26. Seasonal Switch-Ups
Rotate in seasonal decor—a wreath, pumpkins, or fresh flowers. It keeps your entryway fresh and welcoming without a full makeover.
27. Layer Lighting
Instead of one overhead light, mix in a lamp or wall sconce. Layered lighting feels warmer and way more inviting. Nobody looks good under just a single ceiling bulb anyway. :/
28. Go Boho
Think rattan, macramé wall hangings, and patterned rugs. A laid-back entryway vibe that says, “Yeah, I’m cool but not trying too hard.”
29. Add a Personal Touch
At the end of the day, your entryway should feel like you. Whether that’s a family photo wall, quirky umbrella stand, or your grandma’s vintage mirror—make it personal.
Final Thoughts
Your entryway sets the mood for your entire home. Whether you want cozy farmhouse vibes, bold modern flair, or just a place to drop your keys without losing your mind, these 29 entryway ideas give you plenty of inspiration.
Remember, it doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Even swapping out a rug, hanging a mirror, or painting the door can make a world of difference. And hey, the next time someone walks in, you’ll get to bask in that sweet “wow, love your entryway!” moment.
