Narrow entryway design ideas


25 Small Entryway Ideas That Make a Big First Impression

Sara Tramp; DESIGN: Jess Bunge for Emily Henderson Design

If there's one topic we'll never tire of, it's small-space interior design. Given the amount of ink we've spilled on the subject, it's safe to assume we're always searching for inspired ways to make the most of any space with minimal square footage, from the living room to the dining room to the bedroom to, of course, the entryway.

"Small entryways can be tricky, so take advantage of your walls," advises Jessica Bunge, editorial director at Emily Henderson Design. "There are a ton of affordable and stylish hooks and hook rails on the market to hang your jackets and bags. A floating shelf is perfect for throwing your keys and mail on, and also adding a wall mirror is not only great for the last. Do I look presentable? Check, but it will make your space feel bigger and brighter. Making holes in walls is scary, but I promise it is so worth it. " Needless to say, we couldn't agree with Bunge more.

Scroll on for 25 small entryway decorating ideas guaranteed to make a big first impression.

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House of Chais

Using wooden accents and soft colors creates a lovely sight for anyone who walks through the door. Bohemian styles do a great job of using all of these aspects to create a stunning space. A wooden circular mirror with light wood floating shelves, hooks for hats, and an arrangement of plants can turn any blank space into a warm welcome.

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Cathie Hong

An oversized mirror can take up the perfect amount of wall space and make smaller spaces feel larger. Purchasing one that is unusually shaped, like the oblong one pictured here, becomes an artistic statement. Add in some circular golden wall hooks that are as aesthetic as they are functional, and complete the look with a neutral fabric bench.

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Brexton Cole Interiors

Blue is considered a calming color, and what better place for it than in the entryway? Large artwork takes up the small wall space but creates a big impact. Adding some texture, like the velvet blue and silver bench with accent pillows, is the perfect elegant entryway.

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Brexton Cole Interiors

Rather than adding one or two pieces of wall art to your entryway, turn the entire wall into an artistic display. Whether you paint it by hand or go the removable wallpaper route, the results are stunning. Add a simple table on the opposite side to display a few additional personal items.

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D Burns Interiors

While simple wall hooks are a great option, go for a more decorative version to bring your entryway to the next level. One that doubles as a shelf, like the one here, is a great example. Overlaying it over some simple wallpaper and finish with a simple woven rug keeps things subtle yet stylish.

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Cathie Hong

The simplest way to transform your entry is by adding a large plant. Mirrors and benches are a fantastic start, but the addition of the potted plant completes the pictures. It's quite the breath of fresh air.

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Gray Space Interior Design

If you're dealing with a small hallway, it can be in your best interest to create the illusion of it being longer than it truly is. Start with a neutral color for the wall, but to break up the solid presentation, add a wooden palette to create dimension. Hanging a circular mirror where half is on the wood while the other is on the wall is a creative design choice that will only increase the illusion of a larger area.

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Domm Dot Com/Instagram

Adding mirrors and wall hooks are ideal in your entrance, yet showcasing your personality can be a little more challenging. If you want to make a statement, choose a poster or print that reflects your home so that guests will have an idea of what is important to you. Go with a bright, fun design like this poster that Domm Dot Com displayed to have some fun.

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Domm Dot Com/Instagram

The foyer displayed here already checks off so many of our boxes: warm tones, neutral color scheme, and proportionate mirror. However, what really brings it over the top are the floating shelves fixed to the wall with a painted beige oval underneath. Besides drawing your eyes upwards, it adds an artistic flair that will surely capture any guest's attention.

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Jenn Pablo Studio

Make sure to make your limited space count. While shelves are a step in the right direction, you can take it further with other decor aspects. Try adding a bench that has a built-in shoe rack underneath, as Jenn Pablo did here. Not only does it look stunning, but it helps keep shoes and other items out of the way, keeping your floor hazard-free and stylish.

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Kurated by Kris/Instagram

A small yet longer foyer has its advantages–such as hanging multiple pieces of art along the path. Whether the art is connected or distinct, ensure you hang them the same distance apart and have them all at the same height to create a gallery effect. A simple rug and colorful seating is a perfect finish.

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Blue Copper Design

Hidden nooks can sometimes feel inconvenient, but only if you don't know how to utilize them. Adding a sleek and sophisticated backsplash draws attention, but to give it purpose, add some silver hooks and some simple shelves at the bottom for storing shoes and other items. Now you have a stylish hidden space!

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John Keeble via Getty Images

If you have a startlingly small entryway, you may feel as though you can't do much. However, a little perspective and can show you unused space that you can work to your advantage. If your entryway leads directly to a set of stairs, try using the space underneath to display a small table or dresser, like this classic and timeless styled one above. Given your guests will likely walk past this area immediately, it works as an extension to the entry you already have.

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Cottage + Sea

An easy way to create a memorable entryway is to design it as a gathering space to sit and talk with your guests. This wicker bench and chair combo hosts plenty of seating room and looks aesthetic in the process, so anyone feels welcome the moment they step foot in your home. The stylish shelves behind it with small dećor items only add to the charm.

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Erin Williamson

The truth is, you don't have to go overboard decorating every inch of your foyer –just stick with some simple basics. An oversized plant, a simple rug, and a woven basket for any catch-all items can go a long way in keeping the space clear and clutter-free, yet still stylish. Sometimes, less truly is more.

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Finding Lovely

Decorating and accenting with white can allow a small space to appear larger–a perfect trick for your small entry. The bright white walls and doors are paired with stately modern farmhouse decor in light shades of wood and blue, which gives the area an airy, spacious feeling. The benches and baskets tucked away under the stairs make great use of additional space.

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Home by Polly/Instagram

Rather than opting for the traditional smaller mirror, opt for a full-length one instead. Not only do mirrors help create the illusion of a smaller space, but it's also a great addition to check out your full outfit before you head out the door. Work in some small hanging plants and even a floating shelf to keep the decor simple and functional.

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House Sprucing

If you don't want to go crazy with color and dećor then don't worry–there are other routes to take. A minimalist mindset can make a big impression without doing much at all: a simple mirror and floating light, a wooden bench without much fuss, and a pillow or two can make a statement without trying very hard at all. Start with a white and light wood color scheme and you're well on your way to creating an effortless entry.

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JC Designs

Never underestimate the power of stylish storage options. Adding a dresser with open drawers–or cubbies– allow you to display various items as well as keep important ones close by. Adding a few baskets as drawers, like the wicker ones shown here–can allow you to keep some items out of sight and out of mind. Adding a floating shelve that contains hooks for basic items truly ties the other items together, making the most of a small space.

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JC Designs

If your goal is to make an impression, there are multiple factors to keep in mind. While looks and theme play a part, comfort is really the key. Adding soft pillows and even a simple blanket on a bare bench, with a fuzzy rug underneath makes the foyer feels especially inviting and warm. Add a few candles and natural plants into the mix, and it becomes perfect.

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Jenn Pablo Studio

For the more artistic entry, try hanging a small gallery wall over your statement seating. Whether you go with prints or a few pieces of artwork, the possibilities are truly endless. All it takes is three or more items and you can create your every own work of art for other to view once they walk through the door.

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Jessica Nelson Design

Figuring out how to work with a small space can be difficult, which makes it vital to scope out what else you can work with. If you have stairs near the front door, try using them as shelves to display items instead of squeezing in an additional table. While this can vary depending on how your home is designed, it can be a unique entryway option.

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Amy Lefernik at Interior Impressions

A simple way to create interest and depth to your foyer is by mixing different styles and textures together. This entry is a great example with the woven rug on the ground, floral accent pillow, ruffle white cotton pillow, and the metallic gold mirror hanging above. All the pieces work seamlessly to create a delightful sight, even though there are only a few items present.

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Amy Lefernik at Interior Impressions

Occasionally homes have an unusual nook or open space that has untapped potential. If yours happens to be located near the front of your home, try turning that space into a small vanity or desk space. These floating drawers function as a sturdy surface to display and store items, while the space underneath is large enough to tuck away a chair and basket to keep them out of the way.

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Amy Lefernik at Interior Impressions

If you have a foyer that leads straight to a small set of stairs, try to get a little creative with your space. The photo above has a stunning bench built right into the side of the stairs, allowing for seating without compromising space. A small decorative table fits perfectly into the leftover gap to complete the look.

22 IKEA Entryway Ideas and Elements for Tight Nooks

10 expert ways to make a long space seem wider |

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(Image credit: Matthew Williamson / Christian Harder)

If you have ever had to look for narrow entryway ideas, then you’ll be more than aware of the tricky task of making it a long entryway look wider than it actually is, while desperately searching for interior designer tricks to make your entrance appear warm and welcoming.  

You’ve probably spent hours trying out different entryway ideas, rearranging furniture, choosing paint colors and deliberating on rug styles in a frenzied attempt to make your long entrance look more spacious, light and airy.

Do not panic – with some clever tricks of the trade, there are in fact multiple small entryway ideas that wall help turn that awkward entryway layout into something stylish and sophisticated, so don’t give up just yet.

Narrow entryway ideas – 10 expert-approved layouts

Give your narrow entryway a much-need update with our curated selection of interior design-approved layouts, entryway color ideas, lighting inspiration and more.

1. Use color to lift a long entryway

(Image credit: Future)

'A narrow entryway can often be on the dark side,' says Edward Bulner, interior designer and founder, Edward Bulmer Natural Paint . 'Light colors will not make a dark space light, but good colors will make it interesting. So go with the vibrant mid to dark colors that can be lifted and lightened with lamplight. Try deep blues or a deeper neutral such as warm cinnamon and taupe.’ 

Joa Studholme, color curator at Farrow & Ball agrees: ‘When dealing with a long or dark hall it’s best to embrace what you have rather than fight it. Paint it a strong color that will thrill you and your guests when you arrive at the house and make the rooms off it feel bigger and lighter.’

2. Create an impact

(Image credit: Alexander James / Studio Peake)

When it comes to decorating a long, narrow entryway, many people make the mistake of thinking lots of light colors will help to lift the space, says Nicole Salvesen, co-founder of Salvesen Graham . 

‘The truth is that some battles are just not worth fighting. If you paint the entryway entirely white, it has the effect of highlighting the lack of natural light rather than disguising it.’ Instead, the best option is to distract the eye. ‘Do something fun. Use a patterned wallpaper or opt for a dramatic entryway paint color, and then hang lots of pictures on the walls. Make it a nice place to be, rather than somewhere to hurry through.’

3. Light the way 

(Image credit: Arteriors)

There are various lighting tricks available these days to make an entryway appear more exciting and feel more spacious, says Sally Storey, creative director of John Cullen Lighting . 

‘It’s best to aim for drama, not symmetry, by layering the lighting effects in an entryway,’ she explains. ‘Add impact by hanging an oversized pendant and dimming it for mood, but use this in conjunction with downlights that can spotlight a picture on the wall or highlight flowers on a console table.’ 

Then add a contrast by using wall lights or a downlighter to create a wash along one wall. Another trick Sally recommends is to draw the eye down the entrance by lighting the half-landing or an object at the far end: this helps to foreshorten a long narrow space.

4. Maximize space in a small, narrow entryway 

(Image credit: Little Greene)

Good entryway storage ideas are essential in a narrow space. This area tends to be a casting-off spot for everyone’s coats, bags, shoes and keys, so be sure to find the best solution that makes the most of every available inch, be that built-in or standalone furniture. 

If space is at a premium, or if cost is an issue, there are plenty of flexible freestanding pieces available such as consoles, chests, baskets plus pegs and shelves, all of which make good small entryway ideas for apartments.

5. Raise the ceiling 

(Image credit: Shapeside / Amy Bartlam)

Another way to create the feeling of space in cramped or narrow entryway is to raise ceilings, says interior decorator Charlotte Hughes of Sutton House Interiors . ‘Removing the plasterboard to raise the ceiling can be very effective. If that reveals some rather ugly floor joists, ask whether your builder can replace them with some more attractive structural oak joists without affecting the floor above.’

'In old houses it can pay to investigate the original "bones" of the house though it is important to consider the condition ceilings may be in if you expose them,' says  Genna Margolis, founder of Shapeside , who designed this Santa Monica home. The use of white paint here may have helped to conceal flaws as well as create a softer effect that blends in with the room below. 

6. Color drench a narrow space

(Image credit: Little Greene)

One narrow entryway trend which is currently being adopted is color drenching. ‘This contemporary, cohesive approach delivers high impact by painting woodwork, radiators, the ceiling and doors the same color as the walls,’ says Ruth Mottershead, creative director, Little Greene . ‘This will create a complete scheme, treating each element similarly, and will deliver a design statement when entering or viewing the hallway from other rooms within your home.’

7. Plan accessories carefully

(Image credit: Future)

‘A beautifully detailed wall of lightly antiqued mirror can be a great way to expand a tight entryway,' says Claire Sa, director, De Rosee Sa . 'Placing a console and lamps in front of a large mirror softens the coldness of the mirror material. ’ 

A fantastic way to maximize light, well-chosen hallway mirror ideas will help to create the illusion of space – and play a welcome part in making your space feel bigger and brighter, instantly.

8. Be bold and daring 

(Image credit: Annie Sloan)

‘Narrow entryways should make a statement about the house and owners as well as being a welcoming space,' says Mike Fisher, creative director and founder, Studio Indigo . 'Small and narrow spaces can be treated in a grand way – “be bold” is my advice.'

'Large details can open up the space, such as using double doors but making them as tall as possible. A pair of facing mirrors helps create the illusion of more space and adds a bit of glamor. Painting the space a light color will not make it feel bigger. Use strong color to make a statement and give personality. Lastly, we are great fans of polished plaster in hallways – it’s practical, tough and has a wonderful reflective quality that makes the space shimmer. ’ 

9. Display favorite art

(Image credit: Lucie Ayres / Noah Webb)

Walls that are covered with pictures and other wall hangings tend to make a room feel closed in or busy, so simply hang one or two large pieces of artwork to make the room feel wider and more spacious. Ensure there is enough space between the pieces to allow them to shine.

‘Our favorite way to make a statement with art in a narrow entryway is to play with scale,' notes Camilla Clarke, creative director at Albion Nord . 'Make the most of the wall space and choose a large-scale artwork that spans the full height of the door or wall. It will feel bold and impactful.'

10. Keep a narrow space free from clutter

(Image credit: Matthew Williams)

If there’s one thing that’s going to create the illusion of more space in a narrow entryway, it’s decluttering.  Make sure you keep your entryway organized by removing unnecessary items, and your space will instantly feel spacious, lighter and more welcoming.

When organizing an entryway, try and keep the floor as clear as possible, too, as it’s one of the easiest ways to maintain a sense of spaciousness. Remove any oversized rugs and plants, and factor in bag, coast and shoe storage to ensure unused clothing and footwear doesn't accumulate.

How do you decorate a narrow entryway?

In dark, narrow entryways, decorating choices make a big difference. ‘There are two approaches to small or narrow entryways,’ says Ruth Mottershead, creative director, Little Greene. ‘Embrace the size and go for deep dark colors and patterned wallpapers, or opt for a trick of the eye and elongate a long narrow space by using a lighter, warmer color at the end of the space, with a slightly darker shade of a similar tone on the walls to create depth.’ 

Ann Grafton, creative director of Mulberry Home also notes that, ‘using a large-scale design on all walls in an entryway can blur the illusion of where one wall stops and another one begins, making the space feel wider.

How to style a skinny entryway?

‘Entryways can often be narrow with little natural light so consider using color and pattern to create a design scheme that brings warmth and light to the space,' says Ruth Mottershead.

'The entrance is a fantastic place to create a first impression for guests, but also the first area you enter when returning home, so consider how you want your home to make you feel: calm and cocooned or cheerful and vibrant? Don’t forget to consider the views into the entryway from other rooms, how much do you see and how will the design you choose for the entrance flow into the rest of the house?’

Jennifer is the Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens. Having worked in the interiors industry for a number of years, spanning many publications, she now hones her digital prowess on the 'best interiors website' in the world. Multi-skilled, Jennifer has worked in PR and marketing, and the occasional dabble in the social media, commercial and e-commerce space.  Over the years, she has written about every area of the home, from compiling design houses from some of the best interior designers in the world to sourcing celebrity homes, reviewing appliances and even the odd news story or two.

Design of a narrow hallway in an apartment: 110 photos in the interior

It's great when guests enter a spacious hall right from the doorstep. But this pleasure is not for typical apartments. In Khrushchev, Brezhnevka, and even some new buildings, the entrance area is often a small cramped pencil case. How to arrange a harmonious design of a narrow hallway in an apartment, we will tell in this article.

All about designing a long hallway

Main problems
Design tips
— Light palette
- Box effect
— Minimalism
— Gloss and mirrors
— High openings
- Multiple zones
— Furniture by size
— Proper lighting
Project examples
— Laconic classic
— In gray tones
— Blue walls and stucco

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The design of a small narrow hallway in an apartment (photo below) should solve all these issues.

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This is the easiest way to visually expand the space, add air to it.

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Since the entrance area gets dirty quickly, don't make it crystal white. Choose non-staining shades: cream, beige, sand, gray. It is also not necessary to use only light colors. Place accents with individual objects or paint one wall in a darker color - you get an interesting contrast, and the interior will become more voluminous.

By the way, use color play to visually change the proportions of the narrow hall. For example, paint smaller walls with light paint, and long ones with dark paint. This technique is based on the basic properties of colors: everything light seems larger than it is; everything dark is less.

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Box effect

If you want something more dramatic, you can go the other way.

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For example, do not try to change the proportions or hide the real volumes of the room, but simply divert attention from them.

This design hack is suitable for apartments where there is a living room with large windows at the end of the hall. The essence of the reception is simple: the entrance area is decorated in dark colors without bright accents, and a person at the entrance sees natural light at the end of the corridor and instinctively moves there. Well, if the living room is not separated by a door at all, or the canvas will be with glass inserts.

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The main thing is not to overload a small room and not clutter up an already narrow passage. To do this:

It's okay if at the planning stage the entrance area seems empty - in real life, the entrance hall will be filled with clothes, shoes, umbrellas, etc.

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Gloss and mirrors

In addition to light colors, glossy and mirror surfaces visually increase the area.

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Use them in the entrance area, but do not overdo it: if the floor, the ceiling, and the cabinet body shimmer, and all this is reflected in each other, the interior will look clumsy, and the colors will glare.

Striking a balance: let the glossy floor set off the matte plaster on the walls, or vice versa. There can be several mirrors (for example, full-length and on a wardrobe), but they should not be strictly opposite each other, otherwise the labyrinth effect will not be the most pleasant. If there is not enough light in the hallway, install a mirror at the end - this way it will reflect part of the living room with a window.

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Tall openings

Narrow spaces seem disproportionate when unequal aspect ratio and wrong scale catch the eye.

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This is easy to correct with the help of high doors - openings to the ceiling are just in trend now. You can add scale to them by decorating the wall around with moldings to match the finish - they will duplicate the contours of the opening, the canvas will seem larger than it is.

In order not to crush the space, take note of another trend of recent years - concealed doors, which are painted in the color of the finish. It is not necessary to completely mask them - let the borders be visible, but unobtrusively.

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Zoning

If the entrance group is not quite tiny, zone it like any other rectangular room.

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This is not only functional in terms of layout, but also helps the eye to find focus points and move between them, rather than wandering along the long monotonous surface of the walls.

With the help of different finishes, several colors, lighting and furniture, you can generally create the feeling that we are not in front of one elongated space, but several separate ones - just without doors.

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Furniture by size

For small, elongated rooms, you will have to look for non-standard options.

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Or make furniture to order - it will be more expensive, but often there are simply no other options. For example, if you need to design a narrow hallway with a wardrobe, the standard model will most likely not fit in depth.

A good option for limited footage - built-in systems from floor to ceiling. They compensate for the small depth of the cabinets and use the entire area of ​​​​the walls. Most often, vertical surfaces are empty or hung with paintings, although they can be used much more rationally.

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Proper lighting

In a long hallway, it is important to provide several light sources so that there are no dark corners and sad shadows.

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Use: