Welcome Visitors in Style

Welcome Visitors in Style

Update Your Entryway

The weather is getting warmer, vaccines are under way, states are starting to re-open, and people are on the move again. As you get ready to finally gather again with your family and friends, take a look around to see if your home is ready for visitors. During the pandemic, I know many of us tackled organizing projects in areas such as the bathroomkitchen, and bedroom closets. But what about the entryway? It’s an oft overlooked space, but is the first thing guests see.

Create an Entryway That Reflects Your Home’s Style

You know the saying “eyes are the windows to the soul,” right? Well think of entryways as windows to a home. They need to be functional AND beautiful. They should reflect your personal style and be designed around your family’s schedules. Let’s take a look at some different options for an upgraded space.

Drop Zones

To start, an entryway is… where you enter. It’s vital to have designated areas for coats, purses, shoes, backpacks and keys to avoid messy piles on the floor. Grab a wall mount coat rack and a shoe rack. Add a stool so people can easily slip their shoes on and off without falling. Your kids will have no excuse not to put things away when they come inside, and you won’t trip on their hastily kicked off shoes anymore. Short on space? Then how about this bench, coat rack, and shoe storage all rolled into one!

3 Tier White + Gray Shoe Rack on Wood Floor Near Doorway Holding 7 Shoe Pairs Round Padded Gray Fabric Stool with Wood Legs and Decorative Studs on White Floor Near Shoes

The other useful item to have a drop zone for is keys. Give them a designated space and you’ll never have to go hunting again, trying to retrace your steps. There are two different ways you can go about this: hang them or drop them. Wall mounted mail centers and baskets provide small hooks that are perfectly sized for keys, as well as providing storage for mail, umbrellas, pet leashes, sunglasses, hats and so much more. Alternatively, a tray or bowl placed on a small table provides an easy location to drop keys, wallets and change.

Clear Acrylic Rectangular Tray with Handles on White Table Near Plant Containing Mail Keys and Glasses Leather Entryway Storage Organize with 5 Hooks Mounted on Wall

Storage Space

Don’t overlook the storage potential of your entryway! If closet space is limited in your home, you can create extra space here to hide away out-of-season coats, footwear, scarves, really anything you need. I have board games stashed away in mine. When adding storage, the first decision to consider is do you want it to be visible or concealed?

Tiered shelves easily slide into previously unused corners. Fill each level with items you don't mind being seen. With a variety of sizes and finishes, you’re sure to find a complementary fit to your style. Clear bins can be used on shelves or placed in cubby furniture pieces. Handles provide easy access to grab what you need. Next, this 2-tier hammock is an ideal catch-all. Change with the seasons and throw in anything from yoga mats and sunscreen to hats and mittens.

For a more discreet look, add a storage tower with fabric drawers, available in many different sizes and colors. If you have room, upgrade your stool to a bench and gain extra storage space underneath with three natural woven baskets. Finally, complete the look with matching fabric boxes.

White Wooden Entryway Bench with 3 Woven Storage Baskets Next to Hyacinth and Metal Organizers

Glitz & Glam

Last, but certainly not least, decorate your entryway to greet your guests with the warmth and love of your home.

What better way to welcome guests than with a welcome mat? If you’re not a “shoes off” household, welcome mats are more than just decoration. The high pile, natural coir will clean off shoes of those entering, while the runner underside prevents the mat from slipping. With so many unique styles and designs, you can swap them out with the seasons to keep your look fresh.

Natural Tan Coir Doormat with Welcome Script on Ground in Front of Door

Once inside, add floating shelves to the walls and decorate with photos, candles, and knick-knacks to bring in your personal touch. And don’t forget to add some greenery as well! Try including small succulents on the mounted shelves and use floor plant stands for larger pots. Even if you don’t have a green thumb, or, like me, you manage to kill everything, don’t shy away from them! Not only are plants on-trend right now, they also add the perfect natural spring-like feel to your home! Instead, pick up some fake flowers and you’ll never have to remember to water them. Shh… we won’t tell.

2 Wood Shelves with Black Brackets Mounted on Wall Above Office Desk and Books Holding Plants and Home Decor 2 Chrome Metal Plant Stands of Different Sizes with Potted Greenery in Front of Window Next to Chair

Whatever you choose, make sure to match all décor with the look and feel of other rooms. Regardless of whether you adhere to a modern, minimalistic vibe or are more boho-chic farmhouse, mDesign has something for you.

Now You’re Ready to Throw Open the Door and Welcome Guests!


Chelsea McCulley is the Digital Asset Manager at mDesign.

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Posted: Mar 30, 2021