7 Entryway Mistakes to Stop Making Right Now, Straight From the Pros

Your entryway is a small but mighty part of the home, and you'll want to make sure that you're designing it so that it lives up to its full potential. As a result, you'll want to be sure to steer clear of these common mistakes that pros often notice in other people's homes!

Below, they share some common entryway pitfalls along with advice on what to do instead.

You Don't Make a Plan to Corral Clutter

Do not let your entryway fall victim to excess clutter. It's important to prioritize organization during your entryway design process and select furniture pieces that will help to streamline the space.

"Having a surface to corral the bric-a-brac of life is essential," Lindsay Speace, the founder of Lindsay Speace Interior Design, says.

She recommends utilizing an antique chest to house all kinds of day-to-day essentials—place a tray on top to hold mail and use the drawers for items such as dog leashes, reusable grocery bags, and the like. It's also important to neatly tuck away items such as shoes and clothes as well.

"Piling up the family's shoes at the door not only looks tacky and cluttered, but it can very quickly turn into a smelly and dirty situation," Madison Massaro, the founder of Madison Lea Interiors, says.

If a closet isn't an option, shop for a shoe storage bench that will do the job. There are various styles and sizes to fit your specific space.

"By adding some decorative pieces and a lamp on top of it with a mirror on the wall above it, you've now achieved a functional and aesthetic space," Massaro says.

Your Storage Systems Are Too Complex

On a related note, keep in mind that in the entryway, simple storage is key—the more straightforward, the better.

Teri Clar, the founder of NAFASI Interiors, swears by basic hooks and baskets.

"Especially if you have kids, that’s the easiest way to organize," she says. "We don’t have a mud room, so we use our entryway hard."

You Don't Put Any Effort Into Your Entryway Design

A home's entryway is way more than just a pass-through and deserves a little love.

"The entry to your home is the first thing people see when they walk in—first impressions make a big difference," Massaro says. Therefore, be mindful about adding decor that will set a pleasant tone.

"This space should evoke a welcoming and thought-out vibe to whoever walks in your house, including yourself," Massaro says.

Use the entryway to showcase your unique aesthetic. Whitney Durham, the founder of Whitney Durham Interiors, explains how entryways are often the first glimpse into your style and home, which is why making a good first impression is important.

"So don’t be bashful or leave it out of your home's design plan," Durham says.

Your Entryway Doesn't Contain Seating

If you have the space, make an effort to incorporate seating into your entryway.

Andrea Taylor, the founder of Andrea Marino Design, recommends weaving in a pair of chairs, a bench, or a console table with some stools underneath. Taylor recommends treating the entryway more like a room in your home instead of a corridor.

"This adds functionality, while also mixing in an opportunity to add personality to a small space with texture, pattern, and color," Taylor says.

Your Entryway Doesn't Contain a Mirror

It's always useful to be able to quickly check your reflection before heading out the door.

"Lacking one, even if it's small, is a mistake in my book," Elaine Burns Thompson, the founder of Pistachio by Elaine, says. Plus, she adds, a mirror will make your entryway appear more spacious, too!

Your Lighting Is Off-Scale

Don't skimp on your entryway lighting; go big with a statement piece.

Taylor Fusco, the founder of Tay Fusco Design, explains how, oftentimes, she sees grand foyers and entryways with high ceilings being paired with a small light fixture which doesn't do it justice.

"This is such a perfect chance for a moment. Go big or go home," Fusco exclaims.

Your Entryway Doesn't Contain a Rug

An entryway rug is the perfect opportunity to add a pop of pattern or texture, anchor and define the space, and keep dirt and dust at a minimum, Lindsey Potts, the founder of LNA Interiors, says.

In terms of size, try a 3 by 5 foot rug for a wider entryway or a runner for a long, narrow entryway, the designer advises.

Read Next: The Ultimate Rug Size Guide

Read the original article on The Spruce.