Whether you have a grand foyer or a tiny little makeshift “mudroom”, the entryway of your home is the very first impression of all who enter it. This space sets the tone for the rest of your home. It’s like a greeting, handshake, or an embrace. What would you like to feel as you enter? And how can it function best in your home?
Here are a few things to focus on while getting your entry way ready to welcome folks in.
Contents
We have helped folks ease pain points in their home by giving them permission to rethink what is “supposed” to be in their entryway or mudroom. Remember, everything is for a season! Prioritize the functionality you need. What could this look like?
A bin of kid socks to avoid another trip upstairs when you’re trying to get out the door.
Designated tote used for library books or items that need to be returned to the store.
Kid backpacks so no one has to search before school.
Limit the quantity of coats, shoes, and outdoor gear. Every person in your home does not need their entire outerwear wardrobe accessible by the front door. If you have a closet or lockers, pick two jackets per person to keep here, the rest can stay in bedroom closets. Same with shoes, 2-3 pairs max per person is a way to keep things under control. Give each person one hook, or one cubby, or one section to avoid mixing things up and causing confusion.
Containers
We are not promoting bins for the sake of bins, but where a container can create a designated area for similar items - we are all for it! Less confusion, less mess, and less visual clutter. There are lots of ways to contain or gather items you may keep in this area: wall hooks, shelves, hall trees, cubbies with baskets, etc. Do not go buy a ton of products before decluttering and mindfully deciding what items to keep in this prime real estate spot in your house.
Some ways to contain items in your space:
Character
Make it fun! Nothing is more boring than setting up or decorating a space in your house without a little personality. Incorporating a seasonal wreath, cute or witty doormat, or a fun wallpaper can spruce the entryway up. Below are a few doormats to inspire you!
*Affiliate disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links (Amazon & Container Store), meaning Help You Dwell receives a small commission from purchases made. Thanks!

