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10 Small Entryway Designs With Larger-than-Life Appeal

Dealing with a small entryway? Me too. It would be amazing to open the front door and be greeted by an expansive foyer, complete with a dramatic pendant light and a round marble table for depositing keys and mail, but that’s not everyone’s reality. Today’s post is a great reminder that you can design a fabulous entryway, regardless of the square footage near your door. Below you will find a range of options, thanks to 10 small entryway design ideas that manage to make a grand statement, even with limited space. Enjoy!

Clean-Lined with a Spacious Feel

It’s amazing how the use of clean lines can help create a spacious vibe. The first three entryways in today’s post take a modern approach to design and decor. While this starting image isn’t entryway-specific, it’s a testament to the power of wallpaper and Mid-Century modern-style furniture. In case you’re curious, the featured selection is Berry Black Wallpaper from Ferm Living:

Berry Black Wallpaper from Ferm Living

To maximize floor space, try a floating console. A compact surface that can be mounted to the wall is a great solution for small entry spaces. The custom-designed floating console below is by Wud Furniture Design. Also note the power of an interesting statement piece, such as a round mirror. [via Houzz]

Entryway with a floating console

If you open your front door and you’re immediately plunged into the open space that is your living room, you can still create an entryway feel by placing furnishings such as a console table near the door. Instant entryway vibe! [from Foursquare Builders]

Clever entryway solutions in a modern home

Going All Out

Clean lines and subtle details are not the defining features of these next entryway spaces. That’s right–they’re all about making a big statement. No color is too vivid and no item is too unusual. Let’s get started with the entryway of the Paris apartment below. Pink, teal and orange are a few of the unforgettable hues on display here. [from Lonny]

Modern entry with vivid colors

Once again we see the benefit of wallpaper in an entryway setting, but this grand entry doesn’t stop there. A lacquered console, prominent mirror, and two seashell lamps help create a tropical vibe, along with lush greenery. The result: a grand welcome that takes you away to another place–a beachy one! [from InteriorsDecorators.com]

Small entryway with striped wallpaper

No entryway is too small to create a gallery-style display of artwork. All you need is a wall! And maybe a little bit of floor space, as shown below. [from Lonny]

Wallpaper and artwork in a modern entry

When bold decor also happens to be truly interesting, something magical happens. In the next featured image, we see a glistening console with a sunburst motif, an assortment of mineral-fabulous objets d’art, and a sparkling mirror. Every piece is a standout–and therefore, so is the entryway! [from Lonny]

Luxe details in a Mid-Century modern entry

Vestibule Wonders

While researching today’s post, I was excited to discover an entryway concept that’s new to me–the vestibule. When an entry is small, it can still be extra special when enclosed, even if just a bit. For example, this next entry from Griffin Enright Architects features a built-in bench, thanks to black concrete board by Swisspearl:

Two views of a modern entryway vestibule

How charming is this vestibule, complete with hexagonal tile that sets it apart from the rest of the room?! Consider using special flooring for your small entry to truly make it stand out. [from Douglas Design Studio]

Entryway vestibule with hexagonal tile

If adding a vestibule to your entryway is out of the question, consider fashioning your own “enclosed” entry with the help of a bookshelf. Instant room divider! [from Schwartz and Architecture]

An entryway view from both sides of a bookshelf

As for my entryway, these photos have inspired me to make the most of the bookcase you immediately see when entering the house. And I just might add a little plant stand in the one tiny nook that can accommodate a small accent piece. What about you? Any entryway plans in the works?…

Kate Simmons

Kate Simmons is a freelance writer and design blogger with a love of all things decor. She spent her childhood writing stories and working on interior design-themed DIY projects. Kate’s published writing reflects her special interest in how design has changed through the decades. Her blog Mirror80 ( http://mirror80.com/) explores the fashion and [...]

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