Inviting and useful entryway solutions
Ideas for the workhorse space in your homes that you're probably overlooking
We are constantly darting in and out of our homes, getting kids off to school, taking pets out for a walk around the block, inviting guests in or bringing in a few armfuls of groceries — every day. The entryway is a workhorse and we tend to overlook it as a space that needs beautiful and useful decor.
In order to make your entryway functional and beautiful keep these design and decor tips in mind. Balance is key; there should be a balance of soft and solid materials as well as shiny and matte finishes. Create a cohesive space; decorate it as you would any room and think about including lighting and decorative accessories. Finally, push yourself to make this space special — an entryway is a great place to try your hand at wallpaper or hanging a bold piece of art.
With that in mind, here is a roundup of some of our favourite stylish and functional entryway solutions.
Console tables
Console tables are key if you can afford the space. An entryway catch-all can be far more useful than a junk drawer in the kitchen. Change, keys, mail, gift cards, pet treats are helpful to have within reach when you're heading out the door.
If your entryway can't handle a heavy piece of furniture, consider a glass piece with shelves.
Harlow Console Table, $279, Structube
Livingston Console Table, $1399, Pottery Barn
Drawers are great to tuck away anything unsightly, and open shelving is great for storage boxes or small decorative items.
Something with closed storage in order to tuck away winter accessories, or purses is always a bonus.
Selzer Console Table, $347.99, Wayfair.ca
Benches
If benches are more your speed, there are a few things to keep in mind. A bench should be proportional to the space it is in, so if your space is large, consider an oversized piece.
Finding a storage bench longer than 5 feet is tough but not impossible. This piece is 75" long, which is just over 6 feet!
Catch-All Large Sand Storage Bench, $899.00, CB2
If you are in a small condo space then consider dual purpose pieces in a smaller scale. As a general rule, it is always a good idea to choose pieces with dual functions, especially if the piece is expensive.
Rustic Driftwood Mercer Entryway Storage Bench, $335.60, The Container Store
Vertical storage
Sometimes floor space is scarce, so vertical storage is essential. My best advice is to keep vertical storage visually light. Avoid bulky shelves or cupboards up high, those are better suited for mudrooms.
This all-in-one rack is a great solution for smaller spaces or homes that don't have a large volume of coats and accessories.
MACKAPÄR Hat and coat rack, $39.99, Ikea
If a cleaner look is more your speed, consider a medicine cabinet mirror. A sleek and stylish medicine cabinet will provide small storage and no one will be the wiser.
Rivet Medicine Cabinet, $950-$1095, Restoration Hardware
Lindsay Agnew cut her teeth working in the background of design shows both big and small, she has now set her sights on bringing her know-how and impeccable taste to everyone. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram.