Make an Entrance: How to Create an Entryway in Your Small Home
When it comes to small homes and apartments, one gets used to the idea of giving up luxuries that larger homes often have including additional storage, basements and mudrooms. One of my favourite design challenges is to take large-scale concepts such as these and see how I can shrink them down into a version that can apply in my smaller space. Though you won’t be able to create a grand foyer, you can add a few key elements to make entering and leaving your house a little smoother curating a space that is kind on the eyes in the process. Here you’ll see how to ensure your entryway knows how to make an entrance, no matter the size.
Define your threshold
When it comes to entryways, defining the size of your canvas is key. Depending on the size you may be able to fit an entire buffet or cabinet but for others only a small shelf and hooks. Make sure to clarify your space size before you bring in other elements, in some cases this can mean taking measurements or even testing out a few pieces of furniture. Here we only have about four sq. ft. of entryway to work with and a few corners of empty space on our walls so though a little limiting, we can still get creative to make it work for us.
Consider your needs
Next is what I like to call the consideration stage. For example, if you live in Canada (like us), your entryway must be ready for almost every type of weather, including storage for bulky winter coats and boots, knits (including hats and gloves), and even additional bags and layers for those colder months, while warmer months are the opposite with light shoes, and a single umbrella. With this in mind, think about the size of your threshold and how much you can actually fit in the space. Can you bring in a chest of drawers to store each season’s items at once or do you need something that’s a little smaller to swap a few times each year? Here I’ve used a bar cart for its easy accessibility and flexible storage, plus you can roll it away when you have company or empty it for guests’ shoes if you need to. I’ve also included some hooks in what I consider one of the most under-used areas for storage, behind your front door! Make sure to utilize every corner to make the most of storage in your space. I’ve even added hooks to the end of the bar cart to use every inch of space I can.
Add your details
Your entrance doesn’t have to be purely for utility. Take the time to bring in a photo or two to help add some dimension and a mirror by the door to make sure you look your best as you walk out into the world. Take the opportunity to add a dish or two for your keys and wallet giving your objects a home and helping mitigate the stressful ‘where are my keys?!’ moment on your way out the door. I’ve also added a plant, candle and lidded storage to add some texture and visual interest to the space.
Be Flexible
Especially in a small space, we find flexibility is everything. Seasons change as do our tastes, so investing in modular furniture and flexible accents allows us to adapt our entrance and not feel bogged down by an unattractive shoe wrack. We like to prioritize the footwear of the season and store unnecessary items elsewhere, so next time we’re headed out on an adventure all we have to do is slip on our shoes, grab our wallets and keys, and we’re good to go.
Want more interior inspiration? Check out our Interiors section and our Instagram to stay in the know.
