What First Impression Does Your Home Give Off?
It is human nature for us to give form to things we think, feel, and imagine. These forms are grown from a mixture of insights, feelings, and experiences. So, decorating your entryway should be approached in the same manner. Your entryway is one of the first impressions of your home. As a result, it should feel engaging, appealing, and inviting. We draw perceptions from the environment around us, therefore this must be considered when choosing entryway decor. As this space is a precursor to the experience that will be had throughout the rest of the home. Still, being one of the first rooms encountered by guests, as well as owners, the importance of a well-designed entryway is often overlooked. We feel this is due in part to the confusion that arises when attempting to decorate this area. Sometimes it can feel daunting and overwhelming trying to decide how to decorate an entryway table or what entryway décor and furniture will best highlight your overall space.
Core elements of a well-designed entryway include table or furniture, balance, lighting, decorative objects, organization/functionality, storage, wall décor, rugs, and seating.
Though this may seem like a lot to consider when decorating an entryway, creatively incorporating these elements will help design principles work together more efficiently. Allowing for your space to feel more inviting and productive. With this article, we hope to help you find the confidence and vision, to style your entryway in a way that brings your design dreams to life and helps add functionality and style to your homes first impression.
Below we provide insight and guidance on some of the most impactful aspects to entryway decorating and entryway table styling. After reading through our tips don’t forget to head to our store and browse our home and table décor to get a jump start on creating your new space!
Entryway Furniture
Entryway furniture does not really have a go to list like say decorating the living room does. When decorating the living room, you generally think to get a sofa, a tv stand, end tables, coffee table etc. When thinking of entryway furniture besides maybe an entryway table, there is not any “go to” items to decorate with to make it a welcoming and tasteful space. As mentioned, people often go with an entryway table for a myriad of reasons, whether it be familiarity or stylish motives, it’s still a good decorative piece to include. We will touch more on that in a minute.
When choosing entryway furniture, go with pieces that best work with your space and lifestyle. Do not put an expensive glass tabletop in a space that will have kids running and bumping into it as they stumble out the door on the way to school or soccer practice. For entryways that experience high traffic, I like to use either a sturdy wood or other durable material table, or a bench with a focal point and a basket off to the side. This allows for a landing space without clutter that could easily get knocked off in a haste.
I think a bench is such a relaxed and fun entryway décor idea. It offers a place for people to sit when removing shoes or coats and makes the space feel cozy and approachable. It screams “come in, kick off your shoes and stay awhile”. Using a bench and adding a focal point to the wall it lines is a nice decorative addition. A mirror like this round beveled wood one, or this boho oversized clock are a couple of ideas to choose from! Furniture for this space is really left up to what goals you want this room to sustain and what fits best in the area given. So, do not feel like your options are limited.
Your overall design goal is to make it a space YOU feel best represents your style and home.
One tip that helps guide our furniture shopping is to look for items that either offer or support organization. This area in most cases is the first area you see when entering your home and the last area you see when leaving it. Therefore, having it organized can help it better support your life and daily activities.
Entryway Table Décor Ideas and Styling
Choosing an entryway table is sort of like choosing a sofa. You want to find the best fit for you, your family, and your lifestyle, as well as one that is comfortable and stylish. Before getting started choosing a table, it is best to first measure the area of space you will be working with. This will give you a good scale to go from when choosing both a table and other entryway décor items. After measuring, then decide on an overall decorative theme or style you want the space to portray. This decision can sometimes be overwhelming as nowadays there are so many different and overlapping decor styles.
To make this process a tad easier we recommend choosing one item and using that as your muse to help fuel other decorative decisions.
After determining your overall style goals for the entryway décor, choosing furniture is the next step. Now, just because this section is titled entryway table décor does not mean that your entryway must have a table. Decorating the space in a way that best suits your intentions and goals is the best route to take, and sometimes that means using a large mirror and bench instead of your textbook entry table. BUT, if you did go old school and decide to use a table, here are our best tips to create a tabletop that elevates your life instead of adding more clutter to it.
When styling an entryway table, a couple staple items that have proven reliable are -decorative objects, photos, greenery, lamps/lighting, and decorative trays. The list goes on, but these tend to be our favorites when styling an entryway table. They help provide a loose list of things to keep an eye out for when shopping or searching for items to decorate with.
There are no “rules”, to decorating the top of your table. But we do recommend using balance, storage, and variety to help guide your item and placement decisions. Mentioned in previous posts, grouping items in odd numbers tends to be more appealing than that of even numbers. You can approach this in a symmetrical or asymmetrical manner. Placing the same or like objects on both ends makes the display symmetrical on both sides. Whereas, placing taller thinner items on one end juxtaposed against smaller rounder items on the other, creates a contrasting but balanced appearance.
Use things like these rustic style wooden candle sticks on one end and a short round vintage vase or fuller lamp on the other, to create a warm and steady look. Using varying heights is great way to create excitement and interest. This can be done by incorporating objects like paired lanterns. Decorative lanterns often can be bought in pairs of different heights, like these
Greenery and other decorative objects can also help provide height and interest to your tabletop appeal. Opt for larger thinner stems, like tall eucalyptus or fuzzy pampas grass, to increase the vertical design and add texture to your design. Greenery and foliage also help create a cozy inviting ambience that will prove alluring to whomever finds themselves in your entryway. Height not only adds interest but can make an area feel less crowded as well as save on tabletop space. To fill this space, we recommend
incorporating a shallow tray or bowl for loose items to be caught or stored. Having a tray is a great versatile décor item that provides style as well as functionality. This tray can house keys, loose change, smartphones, etc. Or use a shallow bowl, like one of these from our Mango Wood Collection, to save on space and soften the edges of your design. Whatever you choose, adding this detail to your entryway décor can ensure items will not get lost and are easily accessible in times of need.
Balancing Your Entryway Table Décor
We have briefly talked about creating balance within your entryway décor, and here we will elaborate on this to help you better create an appealing entry space. We strive for balance and unison within our lives, so its no surprise that this dynamic need carries over into our desire for visual balance within design and art. Two types of balance are symmetrical and asymmetrical. Symmetrical balance is near matching or exact sides. Architects often employ symmetric balance when creating their buildings. Asymmetrical balance is where the left and right sides are not the same. Instead, various elements are balanced according to their size, meaning, or felt center of gravity (Frank, PG 73). Interiors more often utilize asymmetrical balance as it allows for more decorating opportunities.
A couple tips when trying to figure out how to balance your entryway décor are;
Larger objects are heavier more attention getting than smaller objects. Therefore, two or more smaller objects can be used to balance one larger object. For example, the rustic wooden candle sticks and the fuller lamp or vintage vase we mentioned in the section before this.
You can see this in the photo with the round mirror above . A book and detailed glass vase are on one side, with smaller décor objects on the other.
Objects gather more visual weight as they near the edges, therefore a smaller form décor item can balance a larger piece near the center. This can be achieved by placing smaller items like these decorative metal balls or potted rosemary closer to an end or edge, while creating a heavier display in the center. You could use things like a stack of books with a round vase or décor statue.
Warm colors are generally heavier than cooler tones. A single small shade of yellow can balance a larger dark blue object or piece of décor.
Warmer colors tend to advance toward the eye, while cool colors tend to recede.
These are more just general scientific principles, because more simply put a space will be balanced when it feels balanced. Let these be more of a guide to help lead your design eye and choose pieces that best depict the atmosphere you want the space to provide. This may come easier to seasoned decorators and that is okay, keep moving around objects until you get a good sense of cohesiveness, play around with it, this should be a fun and exciting process not a stressful one!
Other aspects that tie into balance are unity and variety. Unity is the appearance or condition of oneness (Frank, PG 69). Unity in design in the sense or feeling that all elements work and or belong together to make up a coherent and harmonious whole. Variety is to create diversity. Though these terms are opposite of one another they work in unison to provide a well balanced and decorated entryway. Too much unity and the space can look boring, whereas too much variety and the space can feel chaotic. Therefore, use a balance of both concepts when choosing entryway décor and furniture.
Entryway Lighting
Entryway light normally consists of overhead lighting, that when you walk in you feel like you are walking under a surgical lamp. Though the shades of this lighting can feel warmer and not has stark, generally speaking, no one really prefers overhead lighting over a soft toned lamp unless you are entertaining or need to stay awake.
Incorporating a lamp is an easy way to help your entryway feel cozier and more welcoming. The warm soft glow creates a relaxed homey aesthetic that invites guests, as well as yourself, to make themselves at home. The source, color, intensity, and direction of lighting greatly impacts the way things appear. As light changes, the surfaces and objects illuminated by it also seem to change. For this reason, a lamp is a great décor time to consider when decorating your entryway and entryway table.
A lamp is a strong entryway décor item for several reasons, one being that can change the overall vibe of an entire space. Light coming from directly in front of or behind objects appear to flatten the perceived form but emphasize the shape. Light coming from directly above or the side and slightly to the front, help elevate an objects form within a space. Keeping these tips in mind will help you choose a lamp or light source that best suits your design style and goals.
When styling lamps, we recommend using them as a standalone item to balance opposing ends with smaller items, or decorating vertically. For example, stacking a couple of rustic books underneath a lamp can help add height and save on tabletop space. Lamps are usually a “heavier” décor piece, so be sure to not crowd the area around the lamp, or you will run the risk of creating a cluttered and uneven design. We also like to go with warmer colored light intensities, because they create a more laid back and easy going setting, as opposed to harsh white light. This rustic aesthetic evokes an alluring invitation for the rest of your home to be explored.
You can also utilize standing lamps in this area. A standing lamp in the corner at the end of a table can still create a balanced look while freeing up space for entryway décor ideas. A standing lamp in the corner will illuminate an area better than a tabletop lamp would. So, if you are in need of more light but want to still keep the lighting situation relaxing, use a standing lamp to add light as well as fill up space. When choosing lamps remember that light bulbs can always be changed. So do not let the intense white light of a lamp at the store or online turn you away. If a lamp speaks to your design and you feel that it will accentuate overall vibe you are trying to achieve then try it out or take a picture and hold it up in your space to help you visualize.
So, try to keep these principles in mind when choosing a lamp for your entryway DEcor or entryway table Styling;
Source, color, intensity, and direction of lighting greatly impact the way things appear.
Light coming from directly in front of or behind flattens the overall form but emphasizes the overall shape.
Light coming from directly above or to the side and slightly in front of help elevate an objects form within a space.
Light bulbs can always be changed.
Do not overcrowded the space with the lamp.
Lanterns with l.e.d candles in them can also help create ambiance and add a warmer rustic vibe. If you need help styling lanterns read here for guidance and inspo!
Decorative Objects
Decorating with found unique items is a great way to display personality and elevate the intended style of your space. The entryway, as mentioned, is one of the first impressions guests receive whenever they visit your home. It sets the tone for the rest of what they can expect to experience. Using decorative objects on an entryway table or shelf offers you a chance to create a story with your home décor that will best portray your values and family.
When adding decorative objects into your entryway decor we recommend doing so last, or at least after the main core elements have already been chosen. This will help make sure you utilize the best items for your space and style, and do not over crowd or clutter areas forcing pieces to fit with one another.
Deciding on your main aspects first allows you to create a good base to start decorating from. Having this space will help guide your search for décor items that ass personality as well as functionally work best in the given area. Decorative items are things that add a little flair to the general theme of your area.
If an area is feeling unfinished, it could be because the objects located in it are too small, choose a couple larger items and then decorate from here to make sure you are including items that fill your space the best. You can always go back in and add smaller items if need be.
A couple of items to help give you some entryway décor ideas are;
· Rustic bookends
· Found items like old magnifying glasses
· Distressed decorative books
· Picture Frames
These are just a handful of items that you can find at Snows Shack, another décor shop, or even antique malls that you could use to style your entryway table or shelf. Decorative objects are always a fun thing to incorporate within a style because they allow for you creativity and character to flow freely. It can also be a fun “treasure hunt” shopping and searching for different decorative objects, as you never know what you could find!
Organization/functionality
Functionality means the ability or quality to serve a purpose, and we feel your entryway should do just that. It is the starting point of a great day, or a landing space after a busy day working. Choosing entryway décor that is not only stylish but functional, will create a space that best supports your life and provides you and your family a soft place to land after a long day. The entryway serves many purposes for different families; therefore, we always recommend decorating this space with your family and needs in mind to help create a space that alleviates stress not causes it. This can be accomplished by adding a couple decorative organization pieces to your space.
Items to include in your entryway décor to help make it more functional are;
· Baskets
· Trays
· Boxes
· Storage Benches
· Shelving
· Bowls
· Cabinets or Credenzas instead of a table
· Cubbies
· Wall Calendar/Organizer
· Coat Rack and or Shoe Rack
Using trays, bowls, and baskets are a few of our personal favorites when it comes to adding organization into our entryway décor. These beaded edge wooden trays are a great option for styling an entryway table. They radiate a rustic boho aesthetic that allows the area to feel more inviting and down to earth. Trays can be used as a catch all for whatever loose items make their way to this area or get left behind. Things like spare change, keys, notes, cards, you name it can now have a home instead of cluttering your tabletop, or worse, getting lost.
Bowls, like those in our Mango Wood Collection, are a great alternative if you want to save even more space as well as add a little depth and variance to your entryway table. Use baskets to home loose shoes. Allowing for them to be stored, out of sight, clearing disorder and preventing someone from tripping over them.
You can also use baskets to store umbrellas, balls, toys, packages, you name it! The myriad of sizes, materials, and styles baskets come in nowadays you are guaranteed to find one that fits your space perfectly.
Wall hangers like these cute rustic bohemian wall hooks are an extremely useful tool when it comes to entryways. Adding wall hooks creates a place for coats, scarfs, bags, and other items to be hung and off the floor. Wall hooks can help decrease clutter and make most used items more accessible in times of need or in a rush.
Need help getting organized? Check out our blog here for organization tips that we found most helpful!
Choosing a Rug For Your Entryway
Choosing a rug for your entry way does not have to feel as daunting as it may appear. A rug can be used as an anchor item for a room and draw all other elements together. We recommend adding a rug in your entryway décor, because rugs make a space feel more grounded and comforting. When deciding on what rug to get for your space a few things to consider are;
size
Size is important because choosing a rug that is too small can make the area feel unfished and awkward, and choosing and a rug that is too large can make the area feel crowded and cramped. Measuring your floor space and using painters tape to map out what area you are wanting to cover is highly recommended.
Thickness
Make sure to choose a rug that isn’t too thick and will allow your door to close over it. If you get one that is too thick you run the risk of it getting caught underneath the door.
Color
Choose a color that ties in your overall décor scheme and style. We often tend to gravitate more towards darker colors as they tend to sometimes hold up better in high traffic areas.
Material it is made of
Make sure you go with a rug that is made of a durable material and can provide a good sense of texture to your space. Now, there are now rules to this so feel free to incorporate whatever rug made from whatever material makes YOUR design vision come to life. But we generally like to go with a durable wool, cowhide, cotton/cotton synthetic material, when it comes to entryway rugs. These materials introduce a variety of texture and often look more appealing than welcoming your guests with a rubber or microfiber rug, like those you would find in the kitchen or bathroom.
Durability
Durability is probably one of the most important aspects of an entryway rug. This area sees a lot of traffic often, so making sure you choose a rug that can withstand the mud the dog and kids drag in is a good idea unless you want to be replacing your rug every couple of months. As we mentioned, going with a rug made of a more durable material like cowhide or wool, are great contenders against the heavy traffic that flows through the entryway. Cowhide is extremely durable and not to mention I believe you can get almost ANYTHING out of cowhide.
Entryway Wall Décor
The walls of an entryway are a blank canvas for you to fill with things that represent you and your personality in addition to adding style and function. When choosing wall décor try to decide on whether or not you want this area to be a focal point in the room or blend in with surrounding décor and be more of a supportive component, drawing attention to other items. This will help guide your decision on how tall, large, and what shape items should be.
One of our favorite pieces to utilize as functionable wall décor is shelving. It gives another opportunity to incorporate more items that uplift the spaces overall decorative theme. When placing items on shelving try to gravitate toward odd numbers of grouping, as this is more appealing to the eye than that of evenly grouped items. If you do not want to collect items or worry the space will seem crowded using large pieces is a go to option to help decrease clutter and take up bigger areas of wall.
Another favorite of ours that we have been seeing in entryways more are round mirrors. We love the look of this rustic beveled wood mirror over a table with found objects neatly scattered on top. Entryway mirrors can be used to draw focus and make the space feel larger than it is. Having a mirror in the entryway is also a convenient touch if you like to do a one overlook before heading out the house.
Entryway Seating Options
Seating is an often-overlooked aspect of entryway décor, as most do not typically think to add a place to sit down in an area they feel they do not spend a lot of time sitting in. The entryway is usually a place we greet or send off guests from, it is a place where we double check to make sure we have everything and rush out the door, it is the room we rush through to get to the rest of our warm cozy house after being gone all day. So, it is no surprise that seating is sometimes one of the last design elements of an entryway to be considered.
Though we rush through this room, we fail to think of how often we also spend time in this room just standing. The long goodbye to an old friend, or the quick hug and kiss for your kiddo as they rush to catch the bus. Having a place to sit offers a relaxed place for you to take off and put your shoes on, or for someone to sit if you and a guest get involved in a lengthy conversation. Adding a place to sit in the entryway creates a sense of calmness and invites guest, as well as yourself, to come in and stay awhile.
A long rustic wood bench coupled with a round mirror to anchor the setting, or two matching stools homed underneath a stylish entryway table or console table, provide seating options that are strategically placed to be readily available yet hidden within the décor at the same time.
Styling an entryway and entryway table that is just as supportive and functionable as it is stylish does not have to feel as stressful and confusing as it may appear. Choosing items strategically and using these tips as a guide to help lead your entryway décor decisions will help you bring to life a space that sets the tone for a happy, beautiful, genuine, and thriving home.
We hope these tips help you accomplish your entryway decorating goals. If these helped give you confidence and inspiration, check out our other blogs, for more home, décor, and lifestyle tips!
References
Frank, P. (2013) Artforms; Introduction to the Visual Arts. 11th Ed., PG 1-73. PEarson. NEw York, NY.
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