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Make your house look bigger with these 17 Insanely Cute Small Entryway Ideas that will help maximize your space and make it feel bigger than ever! Is your entryway feeling cramped, or is it a forgotten space in your apartment? In smaller living spaces, such as apartments, entryways often get overlooked. However, this small area has the potential to set the tone for your entire home.
1. Layer Lighting with Wall Sconces
If you want to avoid taking up valuable surface space with lamps, consider installing wall sconces. Wall-mounted sconces add a soft, welcoming glow to your entryway while freeing up space on your console or bench. Choose sconces with a modern, sleek design to add sophistication without overpowering the small space.
2. Add Texture with Wall Panels or Shiplap
Adding texture to your walls through shiplap, beadboard, or wood panels can create visual interest without making the space feel cluttered. The vertical lines of the shiplap, for example, draw the eye upward and give the illusion of height. Keep the paneling light in color to maintain the open feel of the space, and pair it with simple, modern décor.
3. Use a Runner Rug
A long, narrow runner rug can do wonders for visually elongating your entryway. Choose a light-colored or patterned rug that draws the eye down the length of the space. Not only will this trick make your entryway appear longer, but it also adds warmth and texture, making the area feel more welcoming. Make sure to choose a low-pile rug to prevent it from looking too bulky.
4. Go for a Floating Bench
If you want to add seating without crowding your entryway, a floating bench is a fantastic solution. This space-saving option provides a spot to sit while putting on shoes, and the open space beneath makes the area feel more open. Pair it with decorative pillows or a small plant on top to add a personalized touch. You can also tuck baskets or storage bins underneath to maximize the functionality of the space.
5. Create a Gallery Wall
Adding art to your entryway can make it feel more like an extension of your home rather than just a pass-through space. A gallery wall draws the eye upward, giving the impression of height and making the space seem larger. Choose artwork or photos that reflect your personality, and arrange them in a balanced way but not overly busy. Keep the frames and artwork sizes consistent to avoid visual clutter.
6. Install Built-In Shelving
If you can add built-in shelving, this is a game-changer for small entryways. Built-ins provide plenty of storage while blending seamlessly with the wall, so they don’t take up extra floor space. You can use these shelves to store shoes, display decor, or house everyday items like keys and mail. Painted in the same color as the wall, built-ins create a streamlined, spacious look.
7. Keep It Light and Bright
Lighter colors naturally make a space feel larger, which is why a light, neutral color palette is ideal for small entryways. Shades of white, soft gray, or pale beige will reflect more light and give your entryway an open, airy feeling. If you’re a fan of bold colors, consider incorporating them through accessories or accents, rather than wall color, to maintain that spacious vibe.
8. Choose Minimalist Lighting
Lighting can make or break the feel of a small entryway. Opt for a minimalist light fixture that provides plenty of brightness without overwhelming the space. Recessed lighting or wall sconces are great options because they don’t take up any floor or table space. If you choose a hanging pendant or chandelier, go for a sleek, modern design that complements the size of the entryway.
9. Opt for Open Storage Solutions
Instead of heavy, closed cabinets or chests, choose open storage solutions like shelves or ladder racks. Open storage keeps the area feeling light and spacious because it allows the eye to see through the space. Use baskets or bins to corral smaller items so they don’t create clutter. Open storage also allows you to display stylish decor, making your entryway both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
10. Add a Pop of Color with Accessories
While neutral tones are great for creating an airy space, a pop of color can add personality to your entryway without making it feel smaller. Use accessories like pillows, rugs, or artwork to introduce color in a controlled way. A bright throw pillow on a bench or a patterned rug can give the area a fresh, modern feel while still maintaining a sense of spaciousness.
11. Incorporate Multipurpose Furniture
In a small entryway, every piece of furniture should serve multiple functions. Look for a bench with built-in storage, a coat rack with shelving, or an ottoman that doubles as a shoe rack. Multipurpose furniture helps you reduce clutter while still maintaining a stylish and organized space. These pieces maximize utility without overwhelming the entryway.
12. Use Glass or Lucite Furniture
Furniture made from glass or lucite is perfect for small spaces because it virtually disappears, creating the illusion of more space. A clear console table or bench can serve its purpose without visually cluttering the room. The transparent material allows light to pass through, making your entryway feel airy and less confined.
13. Incorporate Natural Elements
Bringing nature into your entryway with a small potted plant or a vase of fresh flowers can breathe life into the space and make it feel more welcoming. Plants add a touch of greenery that softens the look of the entryway, and they can even help to purify the air. Choose small, low-maintenance plants like succulents or a snake plant to keep the space looking fresh and vibrant without crowding it.
14. Use a Half-Moon Console Table
For a particularly narrow entryway, a half-moon console table is a fantastic space-saving solution. These tables are slim and rounded, which means they won’t jut out into the walkway. Despite their small footprint, they still offer enough surface space to hold a few key items like a lamp, a dish for keys, or a decorative tray.
15. Use a Fold-Down Desk or Shelf
If your entryway doubles as a work or creative space, consider installing a fold-down desk or shelf. This clever solution gives you a work surface when you need it, but it can be folded up and out of the way when it’s not in use. This feature keeps your entryway functional without sacrificing space, and it’s perfect for apartments where square footage is limited.
16. Hang a Statement Piece
A statement piece like a bold piece of art or a large clock can act as a focal point in your entryway. By drawing the eye to a single feature, you create a sense of intentional design that distracts from the small size of the space. Make sure the statement piece complements the overall aesthetic of your home, so the entryway feels like a cohesive part of your living space.
17. Go Bold with Wallpaper
If you want to add some personality to your entryway, consider going bold with wallpaper. A patterned wallpaper can add depth and interest to your entryway, making it feel more dynamic. Stick to lighter colors or simple designs to avoid overwhelming the space, and use it on one accent wall if your entryway is especially small. Pair the wallpaper with minimalist furniture and accessories to maintain balance.
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