The entryway. Often overlooked, yet it’s the first and last space your guests (and you!) experience when entering your home. For narrow entryways, this space can quickly become a cluttered bottleneck, leaving a less-than-desirable first impression.
But fear not! A narrow entryway doesn’t have to be a design disaster. In fact, with a bit of creativity and smart planning, it can become a stylish and functional area that welcomes you home with open arms.
This blog post is your ultimate guide to transforming your cramped entryway into a welcoming haven. We’ll delve into 17 distinct ideas, ranging from space-saving furniture solutions to clever storage hacks and visual tricks, all designed to maximize the potential of your narrow space.
Narrow Entryway Ideas
Forget feeling constricted; prepare to be inspired and discover how to create a stylish and functional entryway, no matter how limited the square footage. Let’s unlock the potential of your narrow entryway!
1. Embrace the Power of Mirrors: Expanding Space Visually
Mirrors are an interior designer’s secret weapon, and they’re particularly effective in narrow entryways. Strategically placed, a mirror can instantly double the perceived size of the space, creating an illusion of depth and airiness.
Choose a large statement mirror to make a bold impact, or opt for a gallery of smaller mirrors for a more eclectic and visually interesting effect. Consider the angle of the mirror – positioning it to reflect natural light from a nearby window can amplify the effect even further, brightening the entire entryway and making it feel more welcoming.
Beyond simply reflecting light and space, mirrors can also serve a functional purpose. A full-length mirror is a practical addition, allowing you to check your outfit before heading out the door. Alternatively, a smaller mirror placed above a console table or shelf provides a convenient spot for a quick grooming check.
When selecting a mirror, consider the style of your home. A sleek, modern mirror complements a contemporary aesthetic, while an ornate, antique-style mirror adds a touch of vintage charm.
2. Skinny Consoles: Functional Elegance in Limited Spaces
Traditional bulky consoles are a no-go for narrow entryways. Instead, opt for a skinny console table – a slender piece of furniture designed to provide storage and display space without encroaching on precious floor area.
These tables come in a variety of styles, from minimalist designs with clean lines to more ornate options with decorative details. Choose a console that complements the overall aesthetic of your home and provides the functionality you need.
Consider the materials of the console table. A glass or metal console can create a sense of lightness and airiness, while a wooden console adds warmth and texture. Look for consoles with built-in drawers or shelves for added storage.
These can be used to store keys, wallets, mail, and other everyday essentials, keeping clutter at bay and ensuring a tidy entryway. Don’t overcrowd the console – a few carefully chosen decorative items, such as a lamp, a vase of flowers, or a framed photo, are all you need to create a welcoming and stylish focal point.
3. Wall-Mounted Shelving: Vertical Storage Solutions
When floor space is limited, look upwards! Wall-mounted shelving provides valuable storage without taking up any valuable square footage. Install a series of shelves to create a stylish and functional display area.
Use them to store books, plants, decorative objects, or even baskets filled with scarves, hats, and gloves. Floating shelves are a particularly good option for narrow entryways, as they create a clean and modern look.
The height of your shelving is crucial. Avoid placing shelves too low, as they can create a feeling of claustrophobia. Instead, position them at a comfortable height for accessing your belongings without having to bend over.
Consider the depth of the shelves as well – shallow shelves are ideal for displaying decorative items, while deeper shelves can accommodate larger objects. You can also combine different sizes and styles of shelves to create a more dynamic and visually appealing arrangement.
4. Hooks, Hooks, and More Hooks: Organizing Coats and Bags
Hooks are a must-have for any entryway, but they’re especially crucial in narrow spaces where traditional coat racks might be too bulky. Install a series of hooks along the wall to provide a convenient spot for hanging coats, bags, scarves, and hats.
Choose hooks that complement the style of your home – sleek metal hooks for a modern aesthetic, or rustic wooden hooks for a more farmhouse-inspired look.
Consider the height of the hooks when installing them. Place some hooks lower to the ground for children, and others higher up for adults. You can also use different types of hooks for different purposes – larger hooks for coats, and smaller hooks for keys and umbrellas.
Group hooks together to create a designated hanging area, or scatter them throughout the entryway for a more casual look. Don’t forget to choose hooks that are strong enough to support the weight of your belongings.
5. Bench with Built-In Storage: Seating and Stowage in One
A bench provides a comfortable spot to sit while putting on or taking off shoes, but it can also serve as valuable storage space. Opt for a bench with built-in storage, such as a lift-top bench or a bench with drawers or shelves underneath. This is a great way to store shoes, umbrellas, bags, and other items that tend to clutter up the entryway.
Choose a bench that is appropriately sized for your narrow entryway. A long, narrow bench is ideal for maximizing seating without taking up too much space.
Consider the materials of the bench as well – a wooden bench adds warmth and texture, while a metal bench creates a more modern look. Add a cushion or throw pillows to make the bench more comfortable and inviting.
6. Entryway Runners: Defining the Space and Adding Style
A runner rug can visually elongate a narrow entryway, drawing the eye down the hallway and creating a sense of flow. Choose a runner rug that is appropriately sized for your space – it should be long enough to fill the hallway, but not so wide that it obstructs traffic flow.
Consider the color and pattern of the runner rug. A light-colored rug can brighten up a dark entryway, while a rug with a bold pattern can add visual interest.
Choose a rug that complements the overall style of your home. Opt for a durable rug that can withstand heavy foot traffic and is easy to clean. Natural fibers like jute and sisal are good options, as are synthetic materials like polypropylene.
7. Vertical Shoe Storage: Taming the Shoe Chaos
Shoes are a common source of clutter in entryways. Combat this by investing in vertical shoe storage solutions. These come in a variety of styles, from slim shoe cabinets that take up minimal floor space to wall-mounted shoe racks that keep shoes off the ground entirely.
Look for shoe storage solutions that are specifically designed for narrow spaces. Slim shoe cabinets are a great option, as they provide ample storage without protruding too far into the entryway.
Wall-mounted shoe racks are another space-saving solution, and they can be easily installed at any height. Consider the number of shoes you need to store when choosing a shoe storage solution.
8. Umbrella Stands: Keeping Rain Gear Organized
Don’t let wet umbrellas drip all over your entryway. Invest in an umbrella stand to keep them neatly organized and prevent water damage. Choose an umbrella stand that is appropriately sized for your space and complements the style of your home.
Consider the material of the umbrella stand. Metal umbrella stands are durable and easy to clean, while wooden umbrella stands add warmth and texture.
Look for umbrella stands with a removable drip tray to make it easy to empty out excess water. Place the umbrella stand near the door so that it is easily accessible when you come in from the rain.
9. Narrow Hall Tree: A Complete Entryway Solution
A hall tree is a versatile piece of furniture that combines seating, storage, and hanging space in one compact unit. Choose a narrow hall tree that is specifically designed for small entryways.
Look for hall trees with built-in benches, shelves, and hooks. These features provide ample storage for coats, bags, shoes, and other items. Consider the style of the hall tree when choosing one for your home. A rustic hall tree adds charm, while a modern hall tree creates a sleek look.
10. Letter Sorters: Keeping Mail Organized and Off Surfaces
Mail can quickly accumulate in the entryway, creating clutter and chaos. Keep your mail organized by investing in a letter sorter. These come in a variety of styles, from wall-mounted letter holders to tabletop letter racks.
Choose a letter sorter that is appropriately sized for your space and complements the style of your home. Consider the number of compartments you need when choosing a letter sorter. Label each compartment to make it easy to sort your mail.
11. Lighting is Key: Brightening and Enlarging the Space
Proper lighting is essential in any entryway, but it’s particularly important in narrow spaces. Bright lighting can make a small entryway feel larger and more welcoming.
Install a combination of ambient and task lighting. Ambient lighting provides overall illumination, while task lighting provides focused light for specific tasks, such as checking your mail or putting on your shoes. Consider using recessed lighting, sconces, or pendant lights to save space.
12. Paint Colors: Choosing Light and Airy Hues
The color of your entryway walls can have a significant impact on the overall feel of the space. Light and airy colors can make a narrow entryway feel larger and more open.
Consider using white, off-white, or pastel colors on your walls. These colors reflect light and create a sense of spaciousness. Avoid using dark colors, as they can make a small entryway feel even smaller.
13. Wallpaper Accents: Adding Texture and Visual Interest
Wallpaper can be a great way to add texture and visual interest to a narrow entryway. Choose a wallpaper with a subtle pattern or texture to avoid overwhelming the space.
Consider using a vertical stripe wallpaper to visually lengthen the entryway. Avoid using wallpapers with large, bold patterns, as they can make a small space feel cluttered.
14. Artwork: Personalizing Your Entryway
Artwork is a great way to personalize your entryway and make it feel more welcoming. Choose artwork that complements the style of your home and reflects your personality.
Consider using a gallery wall to display a collection of smaller artworks. Avoid hanging artwork that is too large for the space, as it can make the entryway feel cramped.
15. Floating Drawers: Understated Storage for Smaller Items
Similar to floating shelves, floating drawers offer hidden storage without taking up valuable floor space. These are perfect for storing keys, wallets, sunglasses, and other small items that tend to clutter the entryway. Look for models with push-to-open mechanisms for a sleek, handle-free design.
Install them at a comfortable height for easy access and consider painting them the same color as the wall to create a seamless and minimalist look. You can even use multiple floating drawers stacked vertically for added storage capacity. This creates a modern and organized focal point that maximizes space efficiency.
16. Clear Containers: See-Through Storage Solutions
Visibility is key to maintaining organization in a narrow entryway. Clear containers, whether they’re plastic bins or woven baskets with clear lids, allow you to easily see what’s inside without having to rummage through them. This is especially helpful for storing gloves, hats, scarves, and other seasonal items.
Label the containers clearly to further enhance organization. Opt for containers that are stackable to maximize vertical storage space. These transparent solutions help to keep clutter under control while adding a clean and modern aesthetic to the entryway.
17. Round Rugs: Softening Sharp Angles
While runners are great for elongating the space, a round rug can soften the sharp angles often found in narrow entryways. This creates a more inviting and visually appealing atmosphere. Place the rug strategically in the center of the entryway or beneath a console table to define the space and add a touch of warmth.
Choose a rug made of durable materials that can withstand heavy foot traffic. Consider the color and pattern of the rug, opting for lighter colors to brighten the space or incorporating a subtle pattern to add visual interest without overwhelming the area.