Entryway Design Tips That Works Year-Round

Aug 19

In this blog, we share expert tips from Justine Sterling Design on how to create a welcoming, organized entryway, plus storage solutions, décor inspiration, and timeless design advice.

Why a Well-Designed Entryway Matters

Your entryway is more than a pass-through. It’s the first impression of your home and the last thing you see before stepping out the door. It sets the tone for the entire house. A thoughtfully designed entryway can reduce daily stress, keep your home clutter-free, and reflect your personal style from the moment you walk in.

If you’d like a little expert guidance to elevate your entryway, our Essential Design Consultation is a great way to get quick recommendations tailored to your space. And if you’re ready to completely reimagine your space and bring out its full potential, our Full Design Service takes you through a complete transformation process.

As an interior designer, I’ve found that the most successful entryways balance organization, durability, and beauty. Here’s how you can achieve the same in your own home.

1. Entryway Organization Ideas

The key to a functional entryway is intentional planning. Before purchasing anything, ask yourself:

Do I need shoe storage?
Will this space hold coats, backpacks, or seasonal gear?
How much surface area do I want clear for décor?

When you design your entryway around your lifestyle, the space naturally stays neater.

Pro Tip: Assign each family member a designated storage spot like a labeled basket, cubby, or drawer, so clutter never piles up in the wrong place.

Brookline Victorian entryway with bright mudroom design, smart storage, and colorful modern details by Justine Sterling Design. — A vibrant, light-filled entryway in a renovated Victorian home in Brookline. Designed by Justine Sterling Design in collaboration with SLR Architecture, the space blends historic character with modern functionality. The mudroom entry features smart storage, durable finishes, and a cheerful color palette that ties together the home’s updated interiors. *“A Brookline Victorian Gets a Big Dose of Color,” as featured in Boston Home Magazine.*

2. Stylish Entryway Storage Solutions

Organization doesn’t mean sacrificing style. Here are some of our designer-approved storage ideas:

Built-in benches with hidden compartments for shoes and accessories.
Slim console tables with drawers for mail, keys, and small items.
Decorative woven baskets to corral scarves, hats, or umbrellas.
Wall hooks or coat racks for quick access to daily essentials.

The trick is to choose storage that blends seamlessly into your overall decor; no bulky bins or mismatched baskets.

A well-designed entryway in a modernized Victorian home. Custom cabinetry, built-in seating, and playful accents make the space both highly functional and welcoming for family life. The fresh palette and durable finishes connect seamlessly with the home’s open kitchen and living areas. Interior Design by Justine Sterling Design. *“A Brookline Victorian Gets a Big Dose of Color,” as featured in Boston Home Magazine.*

3. Small Entryway Design Tips

Even the tiniest foyer can feel polished and practical with the right approach:

Use vertical space for storage such as floating shelves or tall, narrow cabinets.
Hang a statement mirror to create the illusion of more space and bounce light around.
Choose a low-profile bench with storage underneath to maximize every inch.

Rhode Island coastal entryway with natural textures, bright finishes, and inviting coastal-inspired design by Justine Sterling Design. — A coastal-inspired entryway in a Rhode Island home. Light-filled and welcoming, the space features natural textures, crisp white finishes, and subtle coastal accents that set a relaxed, timeless tone from the moment you step inside. Interior Design by Justine Sterling Design. *“Reimagined Rhode Island Escape Welcomes Visitors to the Shore,” as featured in Ocean Home Magazine.*

4. Functional and Elegant Entryway Decor

Once the practical elements are in place, layer in personality:

Lighting – A pendant, wall sconces, or a table lamp creates a warm welcome.
Artwork – Set the tone for your home with a piece you love seeing every day.
Rugs – Choose a durable, low-pile rug that stands up to heavy traffic and is easy to clean.
Accent pieces – A decorative bowl or tray keeps small items like keys looking intentional.

Winchester Colonial entryway with mid-century inspired green lamp, wood accents, and New England coastal palette by Justine Sterling Design. — An inviting entryway in a Winchester Colonial reimagined by Justine Sterling Design. The space blends New England charm with mid-century influences, featuring a bold green entry lamp, natural wood accents, and a palette inspired by the surrounding landscape. Durable furnishings and thoughtful styling make the entry both family-friendly and timeless.

5. Durable, Timeless Materials for High-Traffic Spaces

Entryways experience constant foot traffic, so materials need to last:

Flooring: Hardwood with a protective finish, stone, or tile for easy cleaning.
Walls: Satin or semi-gloss paint that wipes down effortlessly.
Rugs: Washable or indoor-outdoor rugs for low maintenance.

Investing in quality finishes ensures your entryway stays beautiful season after season.

Coastal entryway with light finishes, airy design, and family-friendly details by Justine Sterling Design. — A bright and welcoming entryway in a custom coastal home. The space features airy finishes, coastal-inspired details, and durable selections that balance elegance with family-friendly functionality. Interior Design & Styling: Justine Sterling Design. Architecture: Tiryaki Architectural Design. Photographer: Jessica Delaney Photography

6. Seasonal Flexibility Without the Overhaul

A good entryway adapts throughout the year with minimal effort:

Switch lighter rugs and accents in summer for richer textures in winter.
Add greenery, branches, or flowers to reflect the current season.
Keep a seasonal “catchall” basket for sunglasses in warm months and gloves in cold months.

Family-friendly mudroom entry with custom cabinetry, seating, and durable finishes in a Brookline Victorian by Justine Sterling Design. — This mudroom entry was designed for busy family living, with custom cabinetry, seating, and durable finishes that keep the space organized and welcoming. Justine Sterling Design created a practical yet polished transition space in this renovated Victorian home. *“A Brookline Victorian Gets a Big Dose of Color,” as featured in Boston Home Magazine.* Architect: SLR Architecture. Photographer: Jessica Delaney Photography.

Questions We Often Hear About Designing an Entryway

“How do I make my entryway look nice?”
Choose a focal point like a mirror, artwork, or statement lighting and keep surfaces clutter-free.

“How do I keep my entryway clutter-free?”
Use closed storage, assign drop zones for each family member, and do a quick tidy every evening.

“What is the best color for an entryway?”
Neutral tones like warm whites, soft grays, or muted taupes create a timeless backdrop. Add depth with accent colors in rugs or art.

Your entryway is the gateway to your home. When it’s both organized and elegant, it supports your daily routine while creating a warm welcome for guests. With the right combination of storage, durable materials, and thoughtful decor, you can design an entryway that works beautifully all year long.

Are you thinking about refreshing your entryway? Our team at Justine Sterling Design can help you combine function and style to create a space that feels warm and inviting. Explore our design services and see how we can help you create a home you love coming back to.

Warmly,
Justine