8 Ideas for a Timeless Entryway Update

Looking for entryway ideas? Learn how to make an inviting and timeless entry way in your home, no matter how large or small it may be.

Silly as it may sound, your entryway is basically your home’s opportunity at a good first impression. And, as Will Rogers wittily reminds us, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.”

I’ve had many different types of entryways in my homes over the years. Our 1940 colonial looked right onto the staircase, while our 1990 foyer had a 2-story atrium feel. Our ranch drops you right into the living room, while our current 80s home has a mini-hallway that is open to the dining room.

I recently scored a beautiful new antique dresser for our entryway. And though the space is still a work in progress, I’ve been brainstorming entry way ideas… And I thought you might enjoy seeing them.

Whether your space is small or large, dramatic or simple, it is still a key place to make your home welcoming to guests, functional for your family, and peaceful for you. And I’m excited to share a bunch of entry way ideas for you today to help you set the stage for your home!

8 Entry Way Ideas

1. Choose a Timeless Color Palette

Versatile, neutral colors are pivotal for capturing a timeless look. That does NOT mean that everything has to be oatmeal or builder beige. Instead, look at whole home color palettes that capture the natural flavor you want in your home. A soft greige can be an excellent choice, as well.

If you lack natural lighting in your entryway, you may want to consider white walls as a base. Here are some of my favorite white paint colors:

Unless the entrance of your home is self contained, I would restrict bold colors to accents, such as a piece of furniture or artwork. But if your entryway is self contained and you want to go for a bolder color, do it! Just make sure it captures the feel and aesthetics of the rest of the home.

TIP: See all my favorite paint colors here!

2. Incorporate Functional Storage Solutions

I believe firmly in function as well as beauty. And large or small spaces by the front door generally have a big job to do, especially if you have kids! And the need is even greater if you don’t have entry closets.

Consider your needs as you incorporate functional storage. Do you need a place for bags? Coats and jackets? Shoes? Or can all those items hide in a mudroom? I have found that bags are best stored elsewhere, but I always have a basket or this custom box for shoes.

Stuff doesn’t have to look messy, so consider baskets, bins, and other items to create a drop zone for small items like mail, sunglasses, and more. If you need hooks, consider this diy version…

Or shop some of our favorites below:

3. Integrate a Seating Area

Not all entryways allow for this, but a seating area can be helpful for putting on shoes or waiting. Consider including a bench, stool, or small chair. It doesn’t have to be large or even particularly comfortable. Just something for convenience and charm.

TIP: Looking for a cute vintage piece? Don’t miss my tips on shopping vintage on Facebook Marketplace.

4. Add a Durable and Stylish Rug

I’ve always been a big fan of real wood floors and lots of rugs. A runner or rug that can withstand heavy traffic is essential for your doorway.

My favorite are vintage wool rugs, such as persian or turkish, as they seem by far the most durable. And they’re not as expensive as you might think!

TIP: Learn about about vintage rugs here, and find out my favorite places to shop for affordable vintage rugs here.

5. Layer in Classic Lighting

Lighting is key to setting the mood. As you come in from outdoors, you don’t want your home to feel dreary. Like in most spaces, I like to layer recessed lights, pendants or chandeliers, and a lamp or sconce.

TIP: See some of the light fixtures we’ve used in our home here. And shop our favorites on Amazon here.

6. Create a Focal Point with Art or a Mirror

Whether your entryway is a tiny nook or a grand foyer, creating a focal point is a good way to establish its identity.

Add artwork you love or a mirror to define the space. Artwork is always a good way to set the tone for your home. And an entryway is a wonderful place for that. Mirrors can double to help you check your appearance on the way out the door. Beautiful and functional!

TIP: Looking to hang artwork? Don’t miss these 5 common mistakes when hanging art.

7. Bring in Natural Elements

I love using live plants throughout my home. But if you’re worried about keeping them alive, then you could consider branches or cut flowers in a vase.

TIP: These are my favorite low-maintenance house plants if you need some ideas.

8. Add Personalized Touches

I believe all our homes should be places of personal items. Things that make us smile and memories that warm our hearts… There are many ways you can personalize your entryway. Here are just a few:

• family photos
• heirlooms, such as an antique dresser or chair
• meaningful artwork (I have often used photos I took when we lived in Paris)

Styling your space with personal items can still remain timeless, though. Frame photographs well. Avoid over stuffing the space. Keep decorative accents on a console table or entryway table to a minimum. Just choose 1-2 personal details.

Conclusion

I hope you found these large and small entry way ideas helpful! Hopefully you can find some simple ideas that you can implement in your own space. For more inspiration, check out our other entryway posts or explore all our room-by-room inspo on our homepage.