The Anatomy of an Entryway: 5 Foolproof Formulas AND Our Favorite Shoppable Picks

Sometimes a post really hits. And while we are ALWAYS pumped, we aren’t always sure what the exact magic sauce was (especially if it was a little unexpected aka not the mountain house kitchen). The latest of these was Emily’s entryway reveal. We looked at all of the data to come to the conclusion that maybe people are just really into their entryways right now. Which I actually get. A pretty entryway is psychologically important. Why? Well if it’s a mess when you leave then you are already bummed/stressed about seeing it when you get back. And when the first area you see when you get home is not the way you want it to look, it really can drag down your mood. Honestly, the world is in too much chaos to not have our homes bring us as much peace as possible, right? So while the boxes I need to put in the recycling dumpster and the large blanket I need to return to my dad are mocking me daily, when it’s clean, I LOVE walking into my apartment, seeing my entry and feeling a sense of calm (or as calm as 2020 will allow).

I want that for everyone. So I did the necessary EHD research, realized we have 5 favorite entryway formulas that we repeat ALL THE TIME, and then put together arguably too many shoppable options (I really couldn’t stop myself). So, no matter the size entry you have, you can come home, rip off that mask, take a deep breath, and feel peace because your entry is on point. No more clutter body.

But before we get into the formulas this is what we think every entry needs:

Function (because form is great until you have nowhere to throw your third pair of shoes that you can’t be bothered to take allll the way to your room)
Mixed materials (for texture and visual interest)
Varied levels (also for visual interest)

Formula #1: Bench + Basket + Wall Feature

photo by tessa neustadt | from: the 10 easy things in your space you could update this weekend

This one is one of the simplest because it only requires three elements and nothing electrical. However, it’s SO functional. I am a huge kick-your-shoes-off-the-moment you-get-home kina gal so having a shoe bin is imperative for me to have an “organized” entry. Emily is also very team shoe bin as shown above.

But first, let’s talk benches. The bench is your main piece and sets the tone for the rest of your house. So choosing the right bench will not only give you a great place to sit but also an awesome opportunity to show off your style (bonus points for cute pillows). These are some of our favorites:

#1, #9, and #10 are awesome because their upholstered tops really make a bold and colorful statement. #5 is pretty great because it’s a bench and bin all in one so it’s perfect for smaller entries or simply for extra storage. But #4 (so affordable), #6, #7 and #12 take what could be a simple wooden bench and really make them into something SO special.

photos by sara ligorria-tramp | left from: how to bring “winter” in with target | right from: jess’ living room reveal

Large baskets are SUCH a good long term purchase. They can be used for a near limitless amount of things… heck, even as a pretty planter cover. I would just make sure for your entry, make note of the number of shoes that normally collect by your door and then adjust your basket size needs accordingly.

I LOVE #1, #4, #14, and #15 so much. But for those that don’t want to see any clutter, #11 with that cute lid is the way to go. However, #8 is the EHD classic and has multiple versions and colors (there’s even an option with wheels).

Hot Tip

Make sure your basket is a different height than the overall height of your bench... but keeping it shorter than the seat of the bench is our rec.

Formula #2: Entry Cabinet + Mirror + Sconce + Tall Vase

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: styling to sell – the final entry reveal (that’s real estate agent approved)

Next up, we have a formula with a bit more drama (and more closed storage). While a single basket is enough entry storage for some of us, if you have the space and want to up the storage, consider an entry cabinet. Sure you can’t sit on it. BUT it’s the ultimate catchall.

These are some great options…

You first want to think about your needs. Are you a drawer person where #7, #8, and #11 would be your go-to? Or would a cabinet with doors and bins inside be a better fit like, well the rest of these? I personally LOVE #3, #5, #9, and #15. Can you tell I have a hard time choosing my favorite of anything?

photos by sara ligorria-tramp | left from: bower’s living room reveal | right from: how we staged a house (to sell) with soul

Mirrors and entryways are THE power couple. Art is wonderful and I will never vote against a beautiful piece of art. BUT a mirror is not only functional, so you don’t miss the fact that maybe you forgot to brush your hair as you hurry out the door, it also will reflect more light around your space. Also, you can easily “go big” without it looking overwhelming. For something classic and affordable, #5 is great. You may recognize #6 from this makeover we revealed this week:) I also have a real soft spot for #2 and #10.

Now the sconces are probably my favorite part of this formula because I really love cool lighting. I mean look at Malcolm’s entry above! Those sconces are incredible. They are also nice for mood lighting at night when you only want some lights on (HOT TIP: install a dimmer if you can). But as for the roundup, I also love #2, #5, and #11 for something modern and #1, #10, and #12 for a more traditional look.

I didn’t include a tall vases roundup in this formula but I do later so get excited:)

Formula #3: Entry Cabinet + Table Lamp + Wall Art + Short Vase

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: sara’s living and dining room reveal

With this formula, it’s basically the little sibling to #2 but equally as great. You still have your wonderful cabinet but instead of a sconce you have a lovely table lamp (which personally is actually my favorite type of light) and instead of a tall dramatic vase you have a smaller more delicate one. Also, while a mirror is a solid go-to for an entry, you can’t forget about the power of art. You can choose something large, a few small pieces, or even a small gallery wall. No rules. That’s it so let’s shop!

Vases (especially the shorter ones) are such a fun way to bring in personality to a design. #2, #5, and #7 are quietly bold which I love. Then #3, #11, #12‘s verticle ribbing is a fun but elegant accent.

photo by david tsay | from: my best friend’s los feliz home

Hello, lover (in Carrie Bradshaw’s sultry voice)! #1 looks like it would give the most beautiful glow in the evening and for such a unique lamp, that price is not bad. #4 is one of Emily’s all-time favorites because well that blue lampshade is basically iconic at this point. BUT #11 and #12 both give off a beautiful light but will also charge your phone which seems GENIUS since you can charge your phone and easily grab it on your way out.

Formula #4: Tulip Table + Tall Vase

photo by christopher dibble | from: 12 tips to make a spec home, special…with max humphrey

This one is the most straight forward but does require you have a decent-sized entryway (and likely a mudroom to store your shoes). However in this photo, those stools might act as storage. VERY smart and sneaky, Max

Why we love this look is because of how simple yet stunning it is. The beautiful shape of the table plus the tall vase with even taller greenery is graphic but feel. Basically it’s a slam dunk. Side note: You can also add a tray or bowl if you want a little something extra:)

Ok, let’s talk tulips…

I don’t know about you but I can’t HANDLE how beautiful #1 is. That wood accent makes my heart skip a beat every time I look at it. 10/10. I also think that #5, #10, and #11 are fun and slightly unexpected versions. However, a classic is a classic for a reason so #2 and #6 will always be a great buy.

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: portland project: the entry & staircase reveal

See I told you the vases were coming up:)

I think about buying #3 about once a week but sadly just don’t have the right spot for her. BUT if you do, then you 10000000% should. Now for something more neutral #6 and #10 are quiet but special.

Formula #5: Console Table + Short Vase + Chair + Table Lamp + Wall Art

photo by david tsay | from: styled: secrets for arranging rooms, from tabletops to bookshelves

We made it! This last one has a little bit of everything. It has a place to sit, a catchall table, a light source, and of course some accessories. Now I didn’t add a basket into this formula but you absolutely could.

Ok, let’s jump right in…

We love console tables because they are visually a bit lighter and tend to be more physically slender which is great for an entryway the needs that (and a lot do). For those that really need some kind of storage, #5 and #9 have those cute little drawers. If you don’t need drawers or are into maybe some smaller shelf baskets then #1, #4, #8, and #11 are awesome options. But if you want something with that “extra something” then #3 and #7 (it’s wrapped in fabric!) then I would suggest those.

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: the no-reno house that looks Completely renovated

Accent chairs have SUCH a special place in my heart and it kills me that I hardly have space for the very small one in my living room. SO if you have an entryway that can handle an accent chair DO IT! Just make sure to consider the scale of your console table and your chair so that one doesn’t overpower the other.

Now let’s get specific. As soon as I saw #3 a couple of months ago I immediately sent it to Julie and simply blurted out, “LOOK!!!!!” I mean, it’s juuuust so good. So that chair aside #6, #11, and #12 are great for a more traditional look and #2, #4, and #7 are great modern picks. BUT if you want a little extra cushion and boldness then #9, #10, and #13 are the way to go.

We are at the end! I hope that this was really helpful and makes you feel like designing an entryway is now a breeze. Now I know I didn’t get heavily into accessorizing but remember less is more. Maybe a small framed pic and a tray added is all you need atop your cabinet (in addition to your cute vase)! Don’t overthink it. Also, these formulas are guidelines. If you want to add a shoe bin next to your console, do it. If you want to add a sconce over your bench, I think that could look great! It’s up to you.

And to make life a little clearer and pinnable here is a graphic I made. Enjoy!