17 Insanely Cute Small Entryway Ideas to Make Your House Look Bigger

Make your house look bigger with these 17 Insanely Cute Small Entryway Ideas that will help maximize your space. 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. In this article I’m going to share with you how my fiancé and I transformed our entryway with small touches that make such a sophisticated impact.

Do You Need A Big Home To Have A Cute Entryway?

If you think that having a bigger home is the key to having a cute entryway, then you’re wrong 🙂 It’s not about the size of your home, but the touches you give to you space. There’s so many ways you can use lighting, colors and textures to your advantage when it comes to home decor.

When Tony and I were building our home, the entryway was one of the key places that we wanted to ensure had a minimalist touch. The less distraction that you have in your entryway, the calmer your space will feel. However, I also want to highlight some functional items that every entryway needs.

What makes an entryway look bigger?

To make your entryway look bigger, consider first the function of your space. If you don’t already have a closet to store your coats and shoes, then having wall hooks can be key to success. If you don’t need to worry about storing clothing then consider adding a decorative bench. We got our bench from Wayfair and pillows from Target 🙂

For ambiance I highly recommend adding a smaller lamp at the entrance of your home. Your entryway will instantly become transformed during the evenings with a smaller lamp. To be honest, I love lamps ALL around the house because overhead lighting is not that cute, haha.

How Do Accessories Make An Entryway Look Bigger?

Another factor to consider when you’re creating an amazing entryway (to wow your guests or at least put a smile on their face) are the details! If you’re like us and you love neutrals then please I beg of you, play with the texture! There’s so many variances within neutral shades and oh so many textures to play with. Texture can really play a huge role in interior design made easy.

You can also play with the varied sizing with your pillows. To really create balance, add two larger pillows on the back of the bench and a smaller pillow at the front. This creates symmetry and balance to your entryway bench 🙂

Layer Lighting with Wall Sconces

In a minimalist entryway like mine, wall sconces can be a smart addition. I prefer a clean look, so wall sconces with a sleek design can offer soft, welcoming light while freeing up surface space on an entryway bench or console. Paired with our simple ceiling light, it maintains a bright, uncluttered feel.

Use a Runner Rug

My entryway has a rug upon walking in, which adds warmth and guides the flow of the space. Opting for a neutral-colored runner in a light grey or beige keeps the space feeling airy and complements the grey tile floor. It’s a simple way to add a cozy touch while maintaining a minimalist look.

Entryway Bench

In our entryway, we have a bench with three neutral pillows. If space is limited, a floating bench can achieve a similar effect while keeping the floor space open. The minimalist design creates an uncluttered look while still offering functionality. Add a couple of neutral throw pillows to enhance the aesthetic without overpowering it.

Create a Gallery Wall

A gallery wall can add a personal touch to a minimalist entryway. I’ve considered adding a few simple black-and-white prints above the bench for subtle decor that adds personality without being too bold. Keeping the frames uniform in color and size can create a cohesive, clean look that aligns with a contemporary style.

Install Built-In Shelving

Built-in shelving blends seamlessly with a contemporary entryway and can add valuable storage. If you need a space to store everyday items like shoes or mail, built-ins painted white can offer a streamlined look. They maintain the minimal vibe while providing hidden storage that keeps the area tidy.

Keep It Light and Bright

The neutral palette in my entryway focuses on white walls, a white door with decorative glass, and grey tile floors. Sticking to lighter shades reflects more light and keeps the space feeling open. You can add small accents like a light-colored throw on the bench or a small vase to add warmth without disrupting the minimalist aesthetic.

Choose Minimalist Lighting

We opted for a simple, modern light fixture that complements the minimalist vibe. If you want to enhance the look further, consider recessed lighting that doesn’t visually clutter the ceiling. Keeping the fixture simple ensures it blends well with other elements like a contemporary door and neutral decor.

Opt for Open Storage Solutions

Instead of bulky cabinets, open storage like wall-mounted shelves can maintain the spacious feel of a minimalist entryway. These shelves can be used to display small decor pieces or practical items like keys, keeping things accessible yet tidy. Opt for neutral-toned baskets or trays to avoid visual clutter.

Incorporate Multipurpose Furniture

In a minimalist entryway, every piece needs to have a purpose. Our bench doubles as seating and decor, but if you need more functionality, look for a bench with hidden storage. It keeps the look clean while still serving multiple functions, which is ideal for a minimalist space.

Use Glass or Lucite Furniture

Incorporating glass elements, like a small clear console table, can make a minimalist entryway feel more spacious. The transparency of the material keeps the look light and modern, fitting well with a contemporary style. It’s a subtle addition that doesn’t compromise the minimalist aesthetic.

Incorporate Natural Elements

Adding natural elements, like a small potted plant, can bring a touch of life to the space. I have a small snake plant near the door, which adds a hint of greenery without taking up too much room. The natural element softens the minimalist look while keeping it fresh and inviting.

Use a Half-Moon Console Table

If your entryway is narrow, a half-moon console table can provide surface space without feeling bulky. The curved design fits seamlessly against the wall, offering just enough room for a small dish for keys or a decorative item, complementing a minimalist entryway.

Use a Fold-Down Desk or Shelf

In smaller homes, having a fold-down shelf near the entryway can add functionality. It provides a surface for dropping off keys, mail, or even a laptop, but it folds away when not in use. This keeps the entryway clear, maintaining a clean, minimalist look.

Hang a Statement Piece

Adding a bold piece of art or a large mirror can create a focal point in a minimalist entryway. We kept it simple with our entryway mirror, which enhances natural light from the decorative glass door. A statement piece adds character while maintaining a clean, streamlined design.

Agreeable Grey Wall Paint from Lowes

If you want to add personality to a minimalist entryway, consider a subtle wall paint. We went with “agreeable grey” and so far everyone agrees with it 😉 Pair it with minimalist furniture and neutral accessories to maintain a balanced look.

Final Thoughts

These entryway ideas reflect a minimalist, contemporary style that feels both functional and welcoming. By focusing on simple, practical elements and light colors, you can create an entryway that’s cohesive and inviting. Which of these ideas will you try to enhance your entryway? Let me know below 🙂