14 of the best entryway decor ideas on Pinterest

The entryway is an important part of the home. It’s the first and last impression that people have when they visit, so you want to make sure you’re hitting the right tone.

This post is all about how to make your entryway welcoming. It looks at different tips and tricks such as bringing the outdoors in, using an entryway table, and making sure the space is well lit.

Also, seeing as we’re Pinterest-obsessed, this post is peppered with examples from Pinterest! So let’s get to it, and get ready for some serious eye candy.

Crucial considerations for decorating an entryway

We’re looking at the basics first, because you have to start somewhere, right? Before you even strip away the old wallpaper or lift up a painting brush, now is the time to really look at the space and determine what you need from it.

1. Space considerations. Is your entryway big or small? Or is it literally just a shelf near the door? All of these different kinds of spaces will affect the function and decorative accessories you use. We’d advise against envisioning hotel-foyer-style décor when you’re working with an entryway the size of a postage stamp.
2. Think about the flow of traffic. An entryway is the main path where you, your family and your guests (and your pets!) come and go on a daily basis. It makes sense therefore that it’s easy to navigate and not obstructed by any furniture etc.
3. Are you using the space to its maximum capacity? How will it function? Can your entryway be more useful than you first thought?
4. Back to the idea of first impressions. We may not spend a lot of time in the entryway, but it is the first thing we see when we or anyone else enters our home. What tone are you going for?

A common question we get about entryway décor is: “does my entryway need to fit the same look and feel as the rest of my house?” Our answer is: it’s up to you. Play by your own rules.

Functional entryway decor ideas

Entryways need to be functional and practical (they have a lot of work to do when you think about it) but that doesn’t mean they can’t be pretty.

Plus, having everything in your home serve a purpose is a great way to be more intentional about your interior décor choices, but also about the decorative accessories you buy (and how many).

Take a look at these clever Pinterest finds:

If you’re building or renovating a house, we suggest that you build in as much as you can into your entryway. It’ll save space and look nice, all at once. Things you can build into the architectural structure of your home include…

• Benches, like the two pictures below
• Shelving
• Desks
• Drawers

This wouldn’t be a perfect entryway post without mention of tables, so let’s move on to that.

Entryways console tables: a wealth of opportunity

Sure, they look really pretty, but they could also be a clutter-collector if you’re not careful.

Luckily for you, we found ways to use your console table efficiently, and how to style it as well. Here's a handy visual cheat sheet:

These rustic style entryways feature console tables that are practical and pretty. Notice how everything has a place, how containers are used for different items, and how there’s still room left over for decorative accents (these aren’t to everyone’s taste but it’s good to know the option is there if you need it).

Mirrors and flowers are lovely touches to get that homey feel going while making the space feel bigger than it really is.

Small entryway ideas that are great even if you have no entryway space

Decorating a small entryway follows many of the same rules that small space décor in general follow.

Quick recap:

• Light colours & keep it clutter-free to have it appear larger
• Use your walls – a big bright mirror or a tiny gallery wall, shelves, hooks, etc.
• Add lights! Bonus because these are easily removable décor upgrades for any rental apartment

DIY Décor ideas for when you get the urge to craft

Décor ideas for larger entryways - using the space

We’re rounding off this blog post by looking at what you can do if you’ve actually got a lot of space. Even if you have a larger entryway, it’s still important to use the space you’ve got to its maximum potential.

Area rugs are perfect for this as they’re friendly underfoot, add a splash of class, and clean your feet before you trek muck through the house.

You might have suspected by now that we’ve got a thing for oversized mirrors. Huge, vintage mirrors are perfect accessories for your larger entryway, as they really create a statement that will leave a lasting first impression.

Plus you’ll be able to see your full outfit as you get ready to leave the house: handy!

If you don’t have to build in seating into your entryway, we suggest you go all out with your seating instead.

Depending on the look-and-feel you’re going for, of course, but honestly there’s something for everyone.

Yes, we’ve gone way past 14 entryway décor ideas

The more the merrier, right?

We hope you find this blog post useful.

If you know anyone undergoing an entryway makeover, share this post with them and win instant interior styling brownie points.

You’re welcome.