Your entryway is the first place your guests will have a glimpse of your home. You want this space to leave an impression of your design style as well as provide a beautiful welcoming space! These small entryway ideas will show you how to create a great update for any entryway space. By adding a few simple pieces, such as a mirror, a cabinet, and a decorative rug, your space will be transformed into a warm welcoming entrance!
Small Entryway Ideas – Updating Your Foyer Space
Picking the Perfect Paint Color
The first and crucial step in transforming our small foyer was choosing the right paint colors. A fresh coat of paint can work wonders in brightening and refreshing a space. We opted to paint the ceiling white to create an illusion of height and openness, while the walls were painted Sherwin Williams’ Agreeable Gray. This neutral yet warm tone perfectly balanced the space, creating a welcoming atmosphere. To learn more about how we chose this color and its impact on our home, check out our detailed guide – How to Pick the Perfect Neutral Color Palette here.
Changing the Lighting for Dramatic Impact
Another game-changer in our foyer update was addressing the lighting. Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood and functionality of a space, especially in areas with limited natural light like a small foyer. We upgraded the existing light fixture by adding a new glass shade. This simple and affordable lighting trick not only modernized the foyer but also enhanced the overall brightness of this space. For $8 I created a light fixture similar to this one ($108)! Changing the lighting fixtures in your home can have a significant impact on the aesthetics and functionality of each space. For more insights and ideas on lighting upgrades, check out our lighting guide here.
By combining the right paint colors and optimizing lighting, you can transform even the smallest foyer into a welcoming and stylish entryway that sets the tone for your entire home.
Enhancing Your Foyer Decor
After painting and updating the lighting, we focused on adding decor elements to elevate the style and functionality of our small foyer.
1. Incorporate a Statement Mirror or Art Work
A well-placed mirror can work wonders in a small space, adding depth, light, and a touch of elegance. We chose the Whitewash Round Wood Mirror from Hobby Lobby, which perfectly blends a slightly rustic charm with a timeless appeal. Positioned strategically on the wall leading to the garage door, this mirror not only creates the illusion of a larger space but also serves as a stylish focal point.
2. Functional and Stylish Furniture Choices
To complement the decor and enhance functionality, we carefully selected a cabinet for our small foyer. The cabinet we chose had clear glass and simple knobs, providing a traditional yet versatile look. However, to hide the items inside, we sprayed the glass on the inside with frosted spray paint. Additionally, we replaced the plain black knobs with something more decorative.
This thoughtful approach not only transformed the cabinet’s look but also addressed our practical needs. With kids in the household, having a designated storage space for items like puzzles, DVDs, books, and art supplies was essential. The cabinet offers easy access to these items while keeping them neatly organized and hidden when not in use.
Shown below are several black cabinets similar to the one I used in this foyer update:
3. Selecting the Ideal Rug
Completing the transformation of our small foyer involved choosing the perfect rug to add warmth, comfort, and a finishing touch to the space. The open floor area needed something to tie everything together and create a welcoming atmosphere.
1. Size and Placement: Consider the size and placement of the rug carefully to ensure it fits the space proportionately. In our small foyer, I experimented with various rug sizes before settling on a 5×7 rug from Target. This size filled the space nicely and complemented the natural shape of the room.
2. Style and Material: The rug I chose from Target carried hues of blues and grays, which are consistent themes throughout our home. The subtle incorporation of these colors in the rug added a cohesive touch without overpowering the space.
3. Color and Pattern: Choose a rug with colors and patterns that harmonize with your chosen paint colors and decor elements.
4. Functionality: Aside from aesthetics, consider the rug’s functionality. Choose a rug that is easy to clean and maintain, especially in high-traffic areas like the foyer.
By carefully selecting a rug that fits your space’s size, style, color scheme, and functionality needs, you can complete your foyer update with a perfect finishing touch. This rug not only warms up the space but also enhances its overall look and feel, making it an inviting and complete space for your home.
4. Artwork or Decorative Objects
In addition to a mirror, consider incorporating artwork or decorative objects to further enhance the foyer’s aesthetics. These items can add personality and visual interest to the space. Look for pieces that complement your chosen color palette and overall decor theme. For example, a framed artwork or a sculptural piece can provide a focal point and tie together the foyer’s design elements seamlessly. Here are a few decorative items we chose for our small foyer update:
- Green Hills Framed Wood Wall Decor – Hobby Lobby
- Better Homes and Gardens Large Cream Ceramic Textured Vase – Walmart
- Olive Leaf Spray – Hobby Lobby
By combining functional furniture choices with decorative elements like mirrors and artwork, we created an inviting and organized entryway that sets the tone for the rest of our home. This approach ensures both style and practicality, making the foyer a welcoming space for family and guests.
Need more tips to update your space? Click here for an easy & affordable banister project or here to see our front console table
If you need another great piece of art for your foyer update, we are giving away a free Black & White Floral Print!