30 Gorgeous Entryway Decor Ideas to Make a Lasting First Impression

Entryway designs can be as warm and welcoming as any other part of the house, greeting guests and beckoning them to come in and make themselves at home.

We’ve rounded up some of our favorite foyers to show off how these small spaces can express big hospitality.

Squeeze in a Cozy Perch

Entry hall with reading nook and blue sectional

Entryways don’t have to just be pass-through spaces.

In this welcoming Georgia farmhouse, designer Mallory Mathison Glenn opted for a plush banquette piled with comfy pillows to create a reading nook in lieu of a traditional entry table to anchor the spot.

Lean Into the Non-Traditional

This isn’t your typical foyer.

For her South Carolina home, designer Taylor Hill played into the quirky architecture, nicknaming the untraditional entry the “lobby” which she outfitted with a mix of antiques from different periods and cultures along with a slew of collections from shells and plates to books and artwork.

The other half of the room offers plush seating.

Keep it Laid Back

Sometimes the warmest welcome is the simplest.

In this coastal home, designer Mark D. Sikes opted for a paired down space that is still fabulous in its own right thanks to the horizontally installed Farrow & Ball Broad Stripe wallpaper.

The warm terra-cotta floor, woven runner on the stairs, and antique furnishings create an inviting space.

Use the Unexpected Red Theory

The walls wrapped in Les Indiennes’ Veronique pattern in Indigo might be the first thing to grab your attention upon entering this historic Nashville home, but the Turkish rug which adds a pop of red that also makes a statement.

Though the hue might not be everyone’s cup of tea, it ties the whole space together.

Designer Stephanie Sabbe also incorporated the color into other areas of the home—including the adjacent sitting room.

Pull Double Duty

Andrew Howard formal living room St. Simons Island, Georgia

Don’t have a dedicated grand foyer? No problem.

In this Saint Simons Island, Georgia, home, designer Andrew Howard didn’t bat an eye in meshing the formal living room and entry into one stunning space that sets the tone for the rest of the house.

For a wow-factor, he swathed the trim with Benjamin Moore’s Mosaic Glass (485) which serves as “frames” for the hand-painted florals in each panel.

Anchor With a Center Table

The centerpiece of this inviting entry wrapped in a checked Phillip Jeffries wallpaper is the catchall center table.

It holds everything from plants and keys to seasonal decor.

It also serves as a “welcome table” for special occasions and additional seating thanks to the cube stools.

Emphasize the Architecture

When restoring their almost 200-year-old family home, the homeowners reinstalled the transom windows to return the foyer to its architectural prime.

They also removed layers of wallpaper and plaster to discover original wood which is highlighted under the chair rail.

Hang a Gallery Wall

Provide a warm welcome for guests with a display of collected artwork that not only shines your personality, but also adds color and interest to the space without committing to a bold paint color or wallpaper.

In this entryway, a coat of Farrow & Ball’s French Gray (No. 18) on the trim and Benjamin Moore’s Simply White (OC-117) on the walls is the perfect backdrop.

Make A Statement

Rather than covering the walls of this entry with expensive wallpaper, the homeowner opted to frame a few panels to create a budget-friendly piece of art for an immediate wow-moment.

Below, the pink velvet bench pulls its palette from the framed panels, helping anchor the hallway.

Layer In Character

Hanna Seabrook Front Entry in Louisville, Kentucky

When renovating this 1,800 square foot cottage, homeowner Hanna Seabrook wanted to create rooms that were inviting, balanced, and easily convertible.

Here, she pulled from her existing collection of furniture and accent pieces to create a layered and welcoming look to set the tone for the house.

Try Checkered Flooring

📸: Erik Maille

Interior designer Erik Maille has created an elegant and luxurious space that’s guaranteed to impress.

With checkered flooring and bold wooden furniture, including a mirror, table, and horse head sculpture, this entryway exudes sophistication and charm.

The black and white pairs beautifully with the dark wooden colors, creating a visual feast for the eyes.

And with natural lighting streaming in from open windows, the space feels warm and inviting.

Style with a Bench

📸: Stefana Silber

Sometimes the simplest design choices can make the biggest impact, and this entryway styled with a bench is a perfect example.

Interior designer and DIY expert, Stefana Silber, says that her “favorite way to style an entryway and stairway area is with a bench. It’s less expected but also easier because you can just place a throw pillow or two to decorate it.”

The white backdrop is stunning as it is. Stefana points out that “long spans of white walls can feel plain and boring.

Entryway molding creates visual interest and removes the need for decor on every wall.” She continues,

“Let the entryway molding shine. the wall trim provides so much visual interest and is an architectural feature, you don’t even need to decorate the space any further.”

Use a Warm and Welcoming Color Palette

📸: Ryan Haus Interiors + Design

With a gorgeous color palette featuring soft whites and earthy tones, this entryway feels more like an inviting and cozy lounge area.

“I wanted our entryway to feel curated, warm, and welcoming,” emphasizes Bonnie Ryan of Ryan Haus Interiors + Design.

“There’s something about this stunning velvet chair that sets the mood for this whole space.

The checkered print rug and fringe ottoman are the perfect compliments!

It’s a perfect spot to take off your shoes, read a book or just take in the pretty views outside.”

Shop Thrifted Pieces

📸: Ashley Lyn Home

“Unique and sustainable” can be used to describe Ashley Lyn Home’s entryway.

This space is a testament to the beauty of repurposing and sustainable interior design, showcasing how secondhand finds can truly shine.

Ashley encourages us to explore thrift stores and second-hand shops, reminding us that hidden gems and unique pieces are waiting to be discovered.

The dark and moody design creates an intriguing ambiance, with an array of small elements that come together to tell a captivating story.

And let’s not forget about the vintage piano! It adds a touch of playfulness and nostalgia, making this entryway truly unique and fun.

Make a Statement with Wallpaper

Decorate your entryway with a statement wallpaper

📸: LC Interiors

“A home should reflect your personal style. And this entryway started with no style.

This wallpaper was the jumping-off point. It added pizazz and a wow factor,” emphasizes Laura Coleman of LC Interiors.

“These plug-in wall sconces allowed for a fun element instead of a standard table lamp.” The designer’s keen eye for detail is evident in the consistent color palette that runs throughout the space.

The console table, circular mirror, rug, basket, pillow, and staircase all tie the room together and create a cohesive and inviting entryway.

Use Natural Materials

Natural materials to design your entryway

📸: Kathleen Walsh Interiors

“In this house, natural materials shone so we let them take center stage,” says NYC interior designer Kathleen Walsh.

“We loved how the pale violet-toned, off-white walls complemented warm pine architectural features. Injecting a sense of energy is key in our designs and mixing modern art and sconces with antique elements always creates a great dynamic.”

With exposed beams and wide-plank pine floors, the entryway exudes character and warmth. Kathleen also points out,

“We specifically sought to root our design in the ethos of New England but bring the personality of our well-traveled clients to their home.

My advice to all, look to reveal who you are and nod to the architectural integrity of your home, it’s a slam-dunk success every time.”

Place Baskets Underneath a Console Table

📸: @dallasdecorhome

“The most important piece in the entryway is the console table, which can provide both style and functionality.

I added a couple of baskets underneath with a throw blanket, but they can also be used for storage,” says Lauren of @dallasdecorhome. This soft and neutral-colored entryway space is simple and well-balanced.

“If I add a lamp on one side, I’ll add something around the same height on the other side, such as a vase with faux florals.

In between the lamp and vase, I added a couple of storage boxes and a stack of books with a candle.”

Combine Function and Style

📸: Michelle Moskalenko

This isn’t your ordinary entryway – created by DIY and home expert, Michelle Moskalenko, the unique use of organic and abstract shapes, bold furniture, and a black-stained staircase creates an environment that’s both functional and visually stunning. Michelle comments,

“A mirror is positioned across from my dining room window, reflecting light back into the house.

Stools are tucked under the console table, providing extra seating for the dining room when needed.

I’ve also added a light fixture above the console table to create a pleasant atmosphere and provide extra light.

This fixture not only enhances the space but also brings everything together nicely by adding height and cohesion.”

Entryway Furniture Ideas

black-and-white staircase in entryway with table and peacock print

Decorate your entryway with low-profile furniture to boost style and function.

Here, a grasscloth console table offers a stylish spot to drop keys or mail and display decorative accents.

Upholstered stools, which serve as perches for putting on shoes, slide underneath and out of the traffic flow until needed.

Make sure entryway furniture doesn’t interfere with the door swing or pose a tripping hazard.

Colorful Entryway Decor

Show off your personality right inside the door with colorful touches.

In this small mudroom, tropical wallpaper pairs with dark green built-ins for a bold punch of color.

The white ceiling and trim keep the small space from feeling too dark, while a bubblegum-pink light fixture adds an extra touch of whimsy.

Entryway Decorating Ideas for Floors

Introduce color and pattern to your entryway with an eye-catching area rug.

In this foyer, a blue geometric rug stretches from wall to wall, delivering a big dose of personality right inside the front door.

For high-traffic areas, choose a durable material that’s easy to clean, and place a non-slip pad underneath for safety.

Entry Wall Art

Turn a blank entry wall into a gallery of your favorite art.

This small area below the stairs hosts a display of landscape photos unified by gold frames.

A tufted bench grounds the arrangement and offers a spot to toss jackets or bags inside the doorway.

Natural Entryway Decor

Bring in fresh greenery for an easy entryway decorating idea that instantly lights up the space.

Here, plants positioned around the door greet visitors with their lush leaves.

Nature-inspired artwork and a pair of woven rattan chairs contribute to the organic look.

Front Entryway Wallpaper

arched entryway with wallpaper and black doors

If your entryway lacks floor space for a seating area but you still want to make a statement, focus on the walls.

Here, geometric wallpaper makes this small entryway a standout feature in the home.

Be sure to include a drop zone nearby for keys and wallets, but don’t overcrowd a small space with too many accessories.

Eclectic Entryway Decor

A pink door sets the tone for this eclectic entryway.

As you walk up the steps, you’re welcomed with a bright patterned rug, a faux fur bench, and a slim console table overflowing with houseplants.

Finished with a modern gold light fixture and vintage-inspired wall art, this front entry decor reflects the homeowner’s vibrant personality.

Small Entryway Ideas

A slim console table—supported by graceful iron legs—stands ready to catch keys or a cup of coffee in this small entryway.

A wall mirror echoes its curlicue lines but delights with an out-of-the-blue chalky hue.

A tote or backpack can slip inconspicuously underneath for easy pick-up or drop-off.

Consider topping the small table with a thin tray meant for collecting keys, wallets, and other necessities.

Entryway Storage Ideas

In this entryway, a small stretch of wall between two doors could’ve easily been overlooked and ignored, but wall-mounted storage and a singular chair give it purpose and presence.

Guests and family members will likely use this resting stop as a place to sit down and remove their shoes, so be sure to have a rug under the chair and a waterproof shoe tray nearby.

An entryway hanging organizer provides cubbies for each family member, making it easier to get out the door quickly.

Long Entryway Decorating Ideas

There’s something new to behold every few steps in this long entryway.

Note that the wood-plank flooring is laid to resemble a rug runner, directing the eye down the hallway to the staircase.

Along the way, you’ll pass by a corner table laden with a sculpture and a minimalist Lucite table beneath a piece of industrial metal salvage.