Designers Reveal the Most Common Entryway Mistakes, and How to Fix Them

Your entryway sets the tone for your whole home, but a few common layout mistakes can make even a beautifully decorated space feel cramped and chaotic.

The first thing your guests will see upon walking into your home is your entryway, and first impressions are subsequently formed. That being said, it’s important for the space to feel welcoming to make a good impression

A stylish entryway in shades of gray and white | Source: Pexels

But no matter how well-decorated your entryway may be, if you’re committing these common design mistakes, your entryway can quickly become chaotic. Here are seven mistakes experts have identified and how to avoid them.

Blocking the Walkway

The first thing you need to establish in an entryway is the space for traffic flow. If this is blocked by furniture, like a console table, it becomes difficult for people to walk through.

"If furniture is too close to the doorway or juts into the path, it makes the space feel tighter," says interior designer Nancy Dow. So before you make that purchase, map out your layout so there’s enough space to move around. "The entryway should have a clear route from the front door into the home," advises designer Olivia Martin.

An entryway with a clear walking path | Source: Pexels

Choosing the Wrong Rug Size

A rug is a good way to mark the entryway, but the wrong size makes a big difference. "A rug that's too large can overwhelm the space, while one that's too small may look disconnected from the surrounding furniture," Dow says.

When selecting a rug for your entry way, make sure its size is proportional to your furniture and your door can still open and close even with the rug underneath.

An entryway with a rug | Source: Pexels

Skipping Seating or Placing It Poorly

It is a common mistake to skip the seats in an entryway, especially for small spaces. But seats can actually serve several functions. It can be a place for guests to remove their shoes or set down their bags, but it can also spice up the entryway with personality.

It’s also important to place the seat where it doesn’t get in your guest’s path. "A settee or bench should sit just outside the main pathway... without obstructing movement," says designer Beth Helmstetter. Consider placing the seat against an unused wall or corner than directly beside the door.

An entryway with a console and bench | Source: Pexels

Overcrowding the Space

It can be quite tempting to have a console, a bench, a cabinet, and a coat rack in your entryway, but that really depends on the amount of space you have. Because no matter how beautifully furnished your space is, too much furniture can make the entryway feel cramped.

In this case, learn to prioritize the most useful pieces, and use furniture that can have several functions rather than having furniture for every purpose.

An overcrowded entryway | Source: Pexels

Ignoring Scale

The same principle applies to furniture as it does to rugs — the size makes all the difference. "A substantial console in a narrow foyer can dominate the space, while a very small piece in a large entrance can appear out of proportion," Dow says.

Before choosing furniture pieces, measure the entryway’s dimensions rather than relying on visual estimates.

An entryway with a large sofa | Source: Pexels

Forgetting a Mirror

Apart from being a practical focal point for your entryway, where guests can quickly glance to check their appearance, a mirror is useful for making the entryway look more spacious by reflecting light and visually expanding the room. Many tend to forget this, but it’s a game-changer, especially for small, tight entryways.

An entryway with a big mirror | Source: Pexels

Settling for Weak Lighting

A beautiful entryway with a high ceiling won’t look grand with small, insufficient lighting. Designers suggest going bold with lighting choices, since a strong fixture can elevate the whole first impression of a home.

A poortly lit entryway | Source: Pexels

It’s a balance between style and practicality when designing your entryway, prioritizing the walkway first and foremost. The rest is all about making the room feel welcoming, not cramped, and functional.

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