Entry Decor Ideas - Tips for a Beautiful Entry

For most of us, the first thing you see when you walk into the house is the entryway. It’s one of those spaces that really sets the tone for your entire house. And, whether it’s a large entry or a small entry, putting some serious thought into your entry decor can make a huge difference.

Our entry has gone through a lot of different versions in the last five years we’ve lived here. In the process, I’ve learned a lot of lessons about how to create a beautiful and welcoming entryway! So today, we’re going to dive into some tips for entry decor.

Making a Plan for Your Entry Decor

Let me walk you through my process for creating a really cozy entry. I believe that this is one of those spaces where a formula can work really nicely, and if you follow that formula you’re almost guaranteed to have a space you love. Let’s get to it!

Know the Essentials

Step one is to know what the essentials of a good entryway are. Every home is, of course, different. But there are a few things that every entry can benefit from having.

A mirror
A console table or bench
Ambient lighting
A rug or runner
Some greenery

If you start with this basic list and keep it in mind as you work, you’re going to do just fine. Let’s dig a little deeper.

Assess Your Space

Once you’re familiar with what the basics of a well-put-together entry area, you can start by assessing your own space. I recommend doing this by putting on your guest goggles. Take a minute to walk through your entry as if you didn’t live there. Try to remove yourself from the equation and ask yourself a few questions:

Does this space have flow? Do I know where to set my purse, shoes, keys, and sunglasses?
What is the focal point of this space? Where do my eyes immediately fall?
What items from the “essentials” list is this space missing?
How does this space make me feel?

I always recommend pulling up a note on your phone and taking some notes about how things are feeling, what you’re missing, and what’s working. It’s a good way to keep you on track as you work!

Home entry with bead board and a peg rail

Make a List

Once you’ve assessed the space a bit, you’re ready to start making an actual list of what you need! You don’t need to get super specific here. Your list might include items like:

A table lamp
Baskets for shoe storage
Artwork
Hooks for purses or keys
A new console table with drawers
A candle
A vase with some faux florals
Something with a pop of color
Something with a cozy texture
A welcome mat
A tray to hold mail or keys
Some family photos
A new chandelier or light fixtures

Get the idea? You want to think about what you want to add to the space and add it to your list so that in the future, when you’re shopping, you will know exactly what you need!

Another really great strategy as you make your plan is to spend a little bit of time on Pinterest looking at foyer and entry inspiration. Pin the ideas you like and draw inspiration from them for your own home!

VIDEO: Our Entryway Makeover

Want to see how I took our small, boring entry and turned it into something really special? Here’s a little DIY diary style video showcasing everything I’ve done in here over the years!

Entry Decor Ideas For Your Home

Now, let’s talk about some actual entry decor ideas that might work for your space. We’re going to look at both some options you can buy and add to your home as well as some DIY projects you can tackle that might help spruce things up!

Entry Tables & Benches

Here are a few beautiful entry tables and benches that might be a good fit for your space. You’ve got a variety of sizes and storage options!

Entry Lamps & Sconces

Next up, ambient lightning! Here are some beautiful lamps and sconces for your entry.

collage of lamps and sconces for an entryway

Entry Mirrors

Every entry needs a mirror. How else will you know if you look put together before you walk out the door?! Here are a few of my favorites.

Other Entry Decor

And finally, here are all of the extras. These are the small items that add a little something extra to your entry and add some dimension to the space.

DIY Projects for the Entry Way

Here are a few DIY ideas from the archives that might give you some inspiration!

Adding beadboard trim to our entryway
Accent wall ideas
Ideas for what to do with your ceiling
How to paint your front door
Wall Trim Ideas

2 Comments

Elizabeth B says:

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Any tips on what to do when you basically have no entry way, just a front door that simply opens up to a big open plan living room/kitchen? (I hate it)

1. Amanda Hendrix says:
  
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  Hi Elizabeth! I’ve lived in a house like that and it was tough! I always recommend dedicating a small portion of the wall to creating an “entryway” – add a small console or table for a drop zone and a mirror to the wall right by the door. Just a little intentionality can go a long way!

Entry Decor Ideas for a Small Entryway