How to create an organized, stylish entryway

by Brittany Anas · January 17, 2013

By Brittany Anas

Ever feel like the entry way of your home has a magnet that collects clutter? Creating a functional and stylish entryway will make your mornings more smooth. The organized design will pleasantly greet you when you get home after a long day at work.

Organizing racks are a quick solution that can keep you from frantically looking for a matching pair of gloves. Separately, a mail file will help you remember to get your mail out on time.

Here are our five tips for organizing your notorious drop-zone — in a way that complements your style.

Already have a coherent space? Use a decorative plate to hold your keys or add fresh flowers to brighten up the area.

1. Start with your entryway closet

Hang up your coats with nice wooden hangers all facing one direction. If your closet is small, just keep your season-appropriate coats in the closet and stash the others in storage until the season change. Loop a matching scarf over your winter jacket and tuck your gloves in the pocket so you have ready-to-go outerwear. Use bins or a storage rack from The Container Store to separate your gloves, hats and scarves.

2. Pick a color scheme

If your entry way flows into the rest of your home, stick to the color schemes that you’ve already decorated with to keep a harmonious look. But, if you have a mud room, back door entryway or otherwise compartmentalized entry way — you can have a little more leeway. We suggest buying a rug or a piece of art or even multi-colored picture frame and then use those colors in the rest of your decor. To keep a crisp look, stick to the rule of three — decorating with three complementing colors and subtle pops of other colors.

Target and West Elm have great selections for rugs — some of which are only online.

3. Hang wall art or a clock

The clock will keep you on time when you’re trying to get out the door. Wall art looks best eye level. You’ll be amazed at how one statement piece can brighten up your entry way and add character.

Check out Cost Plus World Market for a wide selection of art and clocks.

4. Organize incoming mail with an accordion file

All of those fliers from the local pizza shop quickly add up. We suggest setting up a file where you can organize incoming mail. Set up files for take-out menus, invitations, grocery store fliers, bills that need to be paid, etc. When you get junk mail, quickly recycle it so it doesn’t add up and turn into clutter.

For outgoing mail, consider a decorative napkin holder to neatly stash what needs to be sent out. Keep postage, pens and even stationary on a small table.

OfficeMax has great options for organizing files.

5. Use decorative hooks for hats, dog leashes, etc.

Hooks can serve a double purpose. They’re practical for hanging up a hat or the sweatshirt you wear when you run out to grab the paper. But, they can also be decorative accents.

Anthropologie has some monogrammed hooks that look like they were custom made for your entryway.

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