Let’s be real, the entryway closet often gets overlooked. It can quickly turn into a chaotic jumble of coats, shoes, and stuff that doesn’t quite have a home anywhere else. But what if we saw that small space as a huge opportunity instead? A chance to add some serious storage and some serious style right as you walk through the door.
Finding the perfect balance between keeping things tidy and making a statement can feel like a challenge, especially in a small home. But with the right entryway closet ideas, you can totally transform that forgotten space into a functional and beautiful feature.
We’re talking about clever ways to store everything you need while creating a welcoming vibe that sets the tone for your whole home.
If you’re a minimalist or you’ve got a whole family’s worth of gear, these ideas are here to help you get organised and inspired.
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Helpful Entryway Closet Tips
- Think vertically! When you’re working with a small space, the only way to go is up. Consider adding shelves that extend all the way to the ceiling to store seasonal items, such as hats, gloves, or luggage. You can keep things looking tidy by using matching baskets or storage bins. This works wonders for maximising every inch.
- Create a system for shoes. Shoes are one of the biggest culprits for clutter in an entryway. A simple solution is a stackable shoe rack or clear shoe bins. You can label the bins for each family member, which makes it super easy to find what you need and, even better, to put it away. This simple system can make a huge difference in keeping your floor clear.
- Swap out your hangers. This may seem like a minor detail, but it has a significant impact. Switching to slim, velvet hangers will instantly save you a ton of space and give your closet a more uniform, organised look. They also keep coats from slipping off, which is a nice bonus.
11 Entryway Closet Ideas
1. A Classic Farmhouse Mudroom
This entryway closet idea is all about creating a clean, modern look.
The whiteboard, batten wall and chunky wood bench feel incredibly solid and high quality. The hooks and open bench space provide ample functionality, allowing you to hang up items and quickly tuck away those you don’t want visible.
Matching woven baskets on the top shelf is a simple way to finish off the space and hide any messy items.
2. A Family-Friendly Entryway
This entryway closet idea is perfect for families! The painted light green back wall feels fresh and modern, and it adds a nice pop of colour to the space.
The built-in storage cabinets above the hooks are a smart way to hide clutter, and the bench with cubbies provides a dedicated spot for everyone to sit down and get ready. The light wood bench top adds a nice touch of warmth to the design.
3. Cosy Cottage Style
This charming entryway closet idea shows that even the smallest spaces can be full of personality.
I love how the little string lights add a warm glow, and the white shutter panels on the back wall give it a unique, cottage-inspired feel. The dark wood bench with wire baskets underneath is a smart way to keep things organised while still showing off some of the items inside.
Don’t forget to add a key rack next to the closet for the perfect mini drop zone.
4. Functional Entryway Details
This entryway closet idea is all about the little finishing touches that make a space welcoming.
The dark wood bench and rustic hooks are perfect for a classic farmhouse look. The small wreath hung on one of the hooks is a lovely way to bring in some seasonal decor, and the striped throw pillow adds a cosy, inviting element that makes the space feel like home. It proves that a tiny closet can make a huge statement.
5. Modern Farmhouse Closet
Here’s a great example of an entryway closet idea that is both practical and stylish.
The classic board and batten panelling is beautiful, while the rustic wood bench adds a touch of warmth and texture. The three white storage boxes on the shelf above are perfect for hiding clutter and instantly make the space look tidy.
This clever design turns a simple closet into a functional mini mudroom.
6. Modern Mudroom with a Pop of Texture
This is a great example of an entryway closet idea that adds personality to your space.
The shiplap back wall provides a lovely texture, while the black hooks add a nice contrast to the white wood.
The floating wood bench is a great spot to sit, and the woven and striped baskets underneath are perfect for hiding things like kids’ toys or shoes. The bold patterned pillow adds a welcome splash of colour.
7. A Warm and Textured Entryway
This gorgeous entryway closet idea demonstrates how a touch of rustic charm can make a significant impact.
The multi-toned wood planks on the back wall add so much character, and the fur thrown on the bench makes it look super cosy. Built-in cubbies below provide a practical spot to tuck away shoes or bags.
You can make your own space feel warm and inviting with layered textures and subtle lighting.
8. Maximised Closet Storage

This stylish entryway closet idea is all about maximising every inch of space.
By replacing the closet doors with open shelving, this space provides a dedicated spot for coats, bags, and shoes.
The tiered wooden shelves are perfect for keeping footwear organised, and the two-tone black and white baskets on the top shelf create a clean look that keeps things tidy and out of sight. You can use baskets like these to hide everything from seasonal items to pet leashes.
9. A Bold Modern Entryway
This entryway closet idea is all about creating a clean, modern look. The vertical wood panelling is painted a deep black, which immediately gives the space a high-end, custom feel.
The contrasting light wood hooks and neutral cushion really stand out, making this space feel chic and sophisticated.
Make sure to add shoe cubbies at the bottom, like this one has, as it is the best way to keep your floor tidy and trip-free.
10. Simple and Rustic Entryway
This is one of my favourite entryway closet ideas for creating a clean and cohesive space.
The classic board and batten wall with the small shelf and hooks adds a custom, built-in feel. The rustic wood bench is a great, sturdy spot to sit, and the two oversized round baskets on top are great for storing items you don’t use often.
The whole setup feels intentional and polished.
11. Organised and Welcoming

This clever entryway closet idea provides a built-in bench with cubbies, making it super easy to keep shoes organised and off the floor.
The hooks on the wall are a great solution for hanging up coats and bags, so they are not tossed on the floor. I love how the pillows add a touch of comfort and style, turning a simple storage space into a welcoming spot right inside the front door.
This is a perfect example of how to make your entryway both beautiful and functional.
To Sum Up
I hope these 11 entryway closet ideas have inspired you to create your own organised and welcoming entryway.