Just as the eyes are the windows to the soul, the entrance is the window into the house — you know, beyond the actual windows of a house. (I’m glad we were able to start with these really powerful note-takers. Thanks for being here.)
I think the entrance is often undervalued when it comes to design, even though it’s the first thing people see when they get inside. It’s one of the hardest working areas of any home – where dirt collects from the outside, where shoes and coats wear down, and where a lot of guests come in and out. That’s where form meets function, and today I’m sharing some classic ways to marry both.
These are my favorite ways to design entrances of any shape or size.
6 entryway design elements create a welcoming, functional space
1. A carpet
Ah, the tapestry: the centerpiece of any given entrance. This is where people can wipe their feet and put their shoes on. And if you think about design, carpet can often be the star of the show. I have this is from Ruggable and love the style and how easy it is to clean. (It can even be thrown in the washing machine!)
2. A mirror
It’s a must-have for one last look before you head out the door — because we all need to put on lipstick quickly, straighten our hats, check our teeth from time to time.
3. Chair or Bench
If space allows, it’s great to have an extra bench or bench in your entryway. Usually, it serves as a comfortable little spot to sit in while you put on your shoes. Or, sometimes, like my current practice, it’s a convenient perch for empty boxes before they’re broken down for recycling (which I’m doing today, I to swear).
4. A dressing table or dresser
A flat surface of some kind is essential for gathering any odds and ends that come through the door. Bonus points if you add a few baskets or small bowls to hold similar items together! I have one to hold our keys and another to hold our beloved puppy’s poop bag. More Bonus points if you add a few decorative elements like vases, lamps or artfully stacked book collections.
5. A few wall hooks
To hang your most used dog bags, coats or leashes. After living in our apartment for a year, I finally ordered a few for our entryway! I went with five of these in honey yellow. I love the classic J shape, the many color options, and the screws that match the color of the hook (those are the little things).
6. A diffuser or candle
This is a superfluous factor if you only function focus. But I find that a little bit of a pleasant scent entering the house really makes a difference. I have and love This diffuser in Teakwood and Tobacco scent.
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Jackie is the Editorial Director at Wit & Delight. In her spare time, you can catch her running along a riverside path, loitering in the neighborhood of the nearest puppy at a local brewery, or refueling in the apartment complex. her dignified little household. You can follow her on Instagram @jackiesaffert.
