One of the first things you and your guests see when you walk in the door is your entryway, and that’s why it’s so important to make it feel warm and welcoming. If you have a small entryway, it can be hard to know how to decorate it to make it feel like home.
These small entryway ideas will help you create a beautiful and functional space, no matter how tiny it is.
From clever storage solutions to adding personal touches, these ideas are designed to inspire you to make the most of every square foot.
Let’s dive in and see how you can transform your entryway into a space that feels both stylish and inviting.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Read my full disclosure here.
Helpful Tips
- Use vertical space. When floor space is limited, look up! Add shelves, hooks, or a tall, narrow cabinet to take advantage of wall space. This helps keep clutter off the floor and gives you more room to move around.
- Add a bench or storage ottoman. A bench gives you a spot to sit and put on your shoes, and a storage ottoman doubles as a place to hide away things like gloves, hats, or dog leashes. These are great for adding both function and a cosy feel.
- Incorporate soft textures and natural elements. Think about adding a soft rug, a woven basket, or a throw pillow to your space. You can also bring in a small plant or a vase of flowers to add a touch of nature and make the space feel alive.
1. Create a Slim-Profile Storage Station
This small entryway idea is all about smart storage. The slim, three-drawer cabinet is perfect for organising shoes, keys, and mail.
I love how the little basket on top adds a touch of texture and a place for everyday items. The vintage mirror and the beautiful plaid-patterned wallpaper give this a modern rustic feel. A tall cabinet like this is the perfect solution for a narrow space, so you can keep things tidy without sacrificing style.
Try adding a small rug to define the space and make it feel more intentional.
2. Cosy Seating and Shoe Storage
I love how this small entryway idea creates a comfortable and functional space.
The two-part cabinet provides closed storage for shoes and other items, while the cushion on top turns it into a little bench. It’s perfect for sitting down to tie your shoes or for a quick rest after a long day.
The small gallery wall above adds a personal touch, making the whole area feel like a thoughtful and welcoming part of the home. This setup is great if you have a tight corner to work with.
3. The Round Mirror Trick
A round mirror is a fantastic small entryway idea because it helps to open up the space and reflects light, making the area feel bigger. Here, the mirror is paired with a simple, three-drawer shoe cabinet that keeps clutter out of sight.
The textured vase and wood bead garland on top add a natural, bohemian feel, and the gold hardware on the cabinet gives it a little touch of glam. This is a great example of how to combine style and function in a compact space.
4. A Rustic and Functional Drop Zone
If you have a side door or small mudroom area, this small entryway idea is for you. The simple black coat rack is great for hanging jackets and bags, and the large woven basket on the floor is perfect for holding shoes or umbrellas. A little console table on the other side adds another surface for decorations or keys. The striped rug helps to define the space and adds a pop of colour.
I love how the warm wood tones and a little hint of nature from the flowers make this a cosy and practical spot.
5. Clean and Modern Board and Batten
This small entryway idea features a beautiful and clean board and batten wall. It’s a great way to add architectural interest and make a simple wall feel custom.
Adding a few hooks at different heights works well for both adults and kids. The beautiful leather bag and striped scarf add a touch of personality and texture. This is a perfect example of a minimal approach that still feels warm and welcoming.
You can easily recreate this look by installing thin wood strips and painting them a bright white
6. Warm Woods and a Pop of Green
This small entryway idea shows how a simple combination of elements can make a big impact. The rustic wood coat rack with its live-edge top brings a lot of warmth and character to the space. The gold-framed round mirror and the hanging macrame plant holder add a modern, bohemian vibe.
I love how the plant drapes down, bringing in a natural and inviting element.
This is a perfect example of how to make a small space feel alive and well-styled with just a few key pieces.
7. A Minimalist and Elegant Setup
I love the simple elegance of this small entryway idea. A narrow bench is a great solution if you need a spot for shoes and a place to display a few things.
The hooks above provide a place for bags and coats, while the small picture and flowers on the bench add a personal and beautiful touch. The candle and wood bowl give the space a warm, calming feel.
This setup is ideal for those who prefer a clean and uncluttered look but still want to feel welcomed home.
8. Functional Style for Your Door
This small entryway idea is for the ultimate minimalist. Here, two rows of coat hooks are mounted directly on the door, making it a great solution for a tiny area with no wall space.
The rustic wood and black hooks give it a cosy, farmhouse feel. I love how the key and lantern add a unique touch of personality. The bag of flowers is a beautiful way to welcome guests and add a little bit of unexpected charm to the space.
A simple doormat below helps to define the area.
9. Create a Cosy Corner Bench
This small entryway idea turns an unused corner into a warm and functional spot. The white storage bench is a genius solution for hiding away clutter, while the decorative pillows make it feel like a little reading nook.
The floating shelf with hooks provides a spot for keys and a place to display personal touches like a sign or a little plant.
This space feels incredibly intentional and is a great way to add both storage and a welcoming feel. The beautiful wood signs add a lot of personality to this corner.
10. A Console Table for a Welcoming Vibe
A narrow console table is a great small entryway idea if you have a little bit of room against a wall. It provides a surface for keys and mail, making it the perfect spot to showcase a few beautiful decor items.
Here, the beautiful mirror and a vase of flowers make a statement, while the small basket on the bottom shelf provides an extra spot for storage. This setup feels light, airy, and inviting.
The simple console table and the beautiful decor items make this space feel warm and so very welcoming.
11. Bright and Modern Storage Solution
This bright and airy small entryway idea features a clean white shoe cabinet that provides ample storage for shoes, keeping the space tidy and organised.
The large, round wood-framed mirror helps to bounce light around, making the entryway feel even more spacious and inviting.
I love the addition of the large green plant in a woven basket, bringing a touch of nature and warmth to this crisp, modern space. The small decorative trees on top of the cabinet add a whimsical and personal touch, making it truly feel like home.
12. Natural Wood and Functional Pegs
This small entryway idea makes excellent use of wall space with a custom-looking wooden pegboard system. The natural wood tones bring so much warmth to the white walls, and the multiple pegs offer plenty of spots for hanging coats, bags, and hats.
I love the small shelf for a plant and a picture, adding a personal and fresh touch.
The full-length mirror next to the pegboard helps make the space feel larger and is perfect for a quick check before heading out the door. The simple wooden bench below is both practical and stylish.
13. Dark Tones for a Cosy Entrance
For a more dramatic and cosy feel, this small entryway idea uses darker tones to create a sophisticated look. The black metal shoe rack with a wooden top provides ample storage and a convenient place to sit. The tall black lantern adds a touch of rustic charm, and the large green plant instantly makes the space feel fresh and inviting.
I love how the dark-framed mirror and wall art create depth and interest.
This is a perfect example of how to make a small entryway feel luxurious and warm, even with limited space.
14. Minimalist Console with Hairpin Legs
This small entryway idea is all about sleek, minimalist design. The narrow console table with modern hairpin legs provides a stylish surface without taking up too much floor space. A simple, round black-framed mirror above reflects light and adds a modern touch.
I love the minimal decor with a single vase of greenery and a house-shaped lantern, creating a calm and welcoming vibe.
The tall black boots beneath the table are both functional and a stylish accent. A woven basket offers a spot for extra storage.
15. Shiplap Style with Rustic Charm
I adore this charming small entryway idea that uses horizontal shiplap to add texture and a rustic farmhouse feel. The ornate grey-framed mirror is a beautiful focal point, and the small floating shelf below provides a perfect spot for keys or decorative items.
I love the simple vase of hydrangeas and the deer antlers, which add a touch of nature and a unique personality.
The tall umbrella stand and the metal basket for magazines or mail are practical additions that fit perfectly with the cosy aesthetic. The dark door with a wreath completes this inviting look.
16. All-in-One Entryway Bench
This small entryway idea features a fantastic all-in-one bench and coat rack unit. Painted in a beautiful deep grey, it provides seating, hooks for bags and coats, and cubbies with woven baskets for extra storage – keeping everything tidy and out of sight.
I love the personal touches on the shelf above, like the letter board and the small succulents.
The clean lines and functional design make this a perfect solution for a narrow space that needs maximum organisation and a welcoming feel. The white pillow adds a soft and inviting element.
17. Arched Mirror and Slatted Bench
This beautiful, small entryway idea features a modern arched mirror that creates a sense of height and elegance in the space.
Below, a sleek slatted wooden bench offers a spot to sit, while a cosy throw blanket and a striped pillow add warmth and texture.
I love how the dried floral arrangement in a neutral vase brings a touch of natural beauty to the corner. This setup feels incredibly serene and inviting, making the most of a small footprint with thoughtful design and soft, welcoming elements.
I hope these 17 small entryway ideas that are warm and welcoming have inspired you to create your own warm and welcoming entryway.
