Entryways in a home aren't always considered an actual room, but it's still an area that you should put some thought into when planning your interior design. It's the space that welcomes you back home each time you return and the area where guests get their first impression. (After the curb appeal, that is.) John Elliott Interiors has put together some tips to help you create a stylish, welcoming, and functional entryway.

Work From the Ground Up
An area rug is a wonderful way to define the entryway area and add beauty at the same time. Since this is an extremely high traffic area, make sure to choose a fabric that is sturdy and can easily be cleaned. Runners are nice here too. The long, extended shape literally draws guests into your home. 

Seating & Storage
Most entryways don't offer a lot of room so you will want to find pieces that "work" for you, possibly doing double-duty to save space. It's nice to have a place to sit just inside the front door. You can stop there to take off your shoes, quickly flip through the mail, or sit while you wait for others to get ready before leaving the house.

If space is limited, look for seating options that also offer storage, like a chest or storage bench. For entryways with enough room, a separate table, dresser, or drawered console can be added. This is where you will keep the things you need before heading out the door, like a dish or tray for keys and mail. Furniture with hidden storage also allows you to keep bulkier items near the front door but out of sight for a clutter-free look. A coat rack is another good addition that won't take up a lot of space but can hold a lot of items. 


Don't Forget the Walls
For entryways with limited space, look to the walls for extra storage options. Hanging coatracks or even simple hooks give jackets, hats, and purses a designated spot and gives your entryway storage without taking up any floor space.

Consider using a patterned wallpaper or wall color here too. This will help to define the space from the room it leads into. 

Look Up
Small spaces don't leave a lot of room to decorate, so you want to make sure to advantage of every inch. Overhead, think about hanging a statement chandelier or some type of lighting fixture that is eye-catching for a "wow" first impression. 

Make It Say "Welcome!"
Once you have the key pieces in place it's time to decorate the space. The overall feel you want to go for is a welcoming vibe. This is a great place to hint at the rest of the home's style and show off your personality.

You'll find many decorative items at our home decor store at the Lake of the Ozarks to fit every possible style and color scheme, as well as gorgeous wall art. A mirror is wonderful in an entryway both for reflecting light, brightening the space, and for taking a last look at yourself before heading out for the day. Mix artistic pieces with collectibles or mementos to add a personal touch to your entryway. Shadow boxes full of vacation souvenirs and galleries of family photos are a nice addition.


Our luxury furniture store at the Lake of the Ozarks is filled with exquisite pieces to outfit every space, including entryways. Come in soon to take a look at the many wonderful items at John Elliott Interiors in Lake Ozark that can give you that welcoming feeling every home should have. If you don't happen to see exactly what you have in mind, never hesitate to ask. Simply let us know what you need and there's an excellent chance we will be able to find it for you and bring your imagination into reality inside your home.