Elevate Your Entryway: 27 Tips for How to Decorate A Small Foyer

This post is all about how to decorate your small foyer.  Your entryway is the first thing everyone sees when they walk through your front door, make sure your foyer design sets the tone for the rest of your home. The ideas included in this post will help your small space make a big impact.

I have created a list of all the best ideas you need for how to decorate a small foyer.

Key takeaways from this post:

1. Just because your space is small doesn’t mean it has to lack design.

2. Change your entryway decor with the seasons.

​3. Use dual-purpose furniture whenever possible.

Let’s jump into the ideas!

1. Paint your walls white

A fresh coat of paint can make all the difference and changing up your entryway color might be the change you need. If you currently have dark walls in your small entryway that might be contributing to it appearing even smaller.  My favorite white is white dove by Benjamin Moore.

2. Use dual purpose furniture

We all need a place to sit while putting our shoes on so look for dual-purpose furniture pieces like a stool that also doubles as a storage bin.  You can hide your shoes in it and then turn around and sit on it to put your shoes on.

3. Wall-mounted coat rack

This is a great option when thinking about how to decorate a small foyer, especially if you don’t have a coat closet or the space for a free-standing coat rack in your front entryway.  The benefit of a wall-mounted coat rack is that your coats will take up less space.  For extra tight spaces mount the rack behind your front door.

4.  Choose the right light fixtures for your space

Choose lighting that you can mount to your wall as this will utilize our vertical wall space.  Opt for something like a pendant light as it will provide you the light you require but also leave enough room on your console table for other items.

5. Try to incorporate a large mirror

What size Mirror you can use in your space is going to depend on a few things.  Firstly, if you have a really small space and want an entry table you will need to look for a small mirror you can rest on top of it along with some other decor items.

If you don’t have room for an entry table or a small console table then look for a mirror that you can mount on the wall.  This will help free up floor space and also allow you to check your outfit on the way out the door.

6. Utilize storage baskets

Create a designated space for a drop zone with storage baskets.   This is the perfect solution if you don’t have a coat closet.  The baskets will help store all your shoes and belongings and help keep a minimal look.  These can also double as decorative items and are especially helpful for achieving a boho look.

If you want more boho design inspiration check out 13 Tips for Mastering Beachy Boho Bedroom Decor

7. Don’t be afraid to include wall art

Just because your space is small doesn’t mean you cant include some wall art.  You might not have the space for a large piece of art, but even three small frames can make a big design impact. Make sure you choose the right size frames for you space. Your wall art is going to help create a warm and inviting entryway.  The color scheme of your art will help the room feel larger and more airy.

8. Utilize natural light

​If possible try to utilize all the natural light your space provides.  If you don’t have natural light coming into your entry way make sure that you prioritize the right lighting.

9.  Add a cozy floor rug

A floor rug is both pretty and practical.  This is a wonderful way to add some warmth and texture to your place while also making sure you are tracking less dirt from outside into your home.  Make sure you are sticking with a rug that has a low pile and is easy to clean.

I love Ruggable rugs! They make for great entryway rugs as they are really easy to clean.

10.  Keep your decor neutral colors

Make sure the decor you are incorporating is neutral so that it makes your space feel and appear larger.  Staying with a neutral palette is also a really big design trend right now.

Speak of design trends let’s refresh on some design rules we can follow for how to decorate a small foyer to help us make the most of our space.

• Keep it minimal.  Going for a minimalist look with your decor will help your entryway feel less cluttered and appear larger.  It will also help you maximize the space.
• Utilize vertical space.  Since floor space is at a premium using your wall space is a great way to make your narrow entryway feel larger.
• ​Mirrors.  Adding mirrors to your design will help reflect the light and make your space appear larger.

11.  Use wall hooks in your small foyer

You might only have enough room for wall hooks and thats okay! Put your hooks in a fun pattern or spread them across your wall to create some visual interest.

12.  Find a narrow entryway table

​Finding an entryway table with the right dimensions can be really hard.  Look for one that is designed specifically for small entryways or if possible get one custom made to fit your space perfectly.

If you need more small space design inspiration check out 18 Ways To Decorate Your Small Living Room For Christmas

13. Install floating shelves

Floating shelves are extremely versatile they can function as a ledge to put your keys on and also a place to style your decor.  While your space might be small you still want your foyer to make a great first impression.

14. Regular decluttering will keep your small foyer functional

If you want to keep your tiny foyer organized you will need to make a conscious effort to regularly declutter.  If you aren’t careful your entry way can becoming a dumping ground. Regularly go through items that end up at the front door so things don’t add up.

One thing I am constantly cleaning up around my front door is shoes that is why I only keep the shoes for the current season at the front door.  I have a bin of shoes I rotate for the season and only keep at the front door the shoes I am wearing at the time.

15. Keep a seasonal decor rotation

Your front door is a great place for seasonal decor.  You don’t need to go overboard but if you are a seasonal decorator don’t forget about your entryway! It is the first impression of your home and some seasonal decor sets the tone for the rest of your home.

If you need more seasonal decor inspiration check out 18 Ways To Decorate Your Small Living Room For Christmas

16.  Console table with drawers

One of my favorite ideas for how to decorate a small foyer is looking for a console table with drawers will really help you make the most of your limited space.  The drawers are good for hiding away those everyday items that aren’t very pretty like your keys and wallet.

17. Maximize door storage

​Maximizing space is the best tip use when thinking about how to decorate a small foyer. Using the back of your front door or any door you have in your entryway is another easy way to utilize every inch of your space.

Command hooks work really well on doors. I would hang things like smaller jackets or vests or even your dog leash something that is low profile and won’t get in the way of your door opening and closing and will easily stay on the hook.  I have a hook with my dogs leash on the back of my front door.

18. Find the right size table lamps

If natural lighting is limited you will need to incorporate some artificial lighting so you can see what you are doing! Table lamps are a great solution.

You have likely already come to the conclusion that you will require a narrow entry table so you will need to find some table lamps with a small base and shade.  Make sure your lamp is both pretty and functional and gives you adequate lighting so you can easily find your items.

19. Find a shoe rack that is also a bench

A shoe rack makes for another great dual-purpose furniture piece.  You need both a place to sit and store your shoes in your entryway.  If you don’t want to use baskets then opt for a sleek shoe rack to keep your shoes and one that is sturdy enough you can also sit on it.

20. Make your foyer a stylish space

​Just because your entryway to your home is small doesn’t mean it needs to lack style! Take the time to source the pieces that are going to be the most functional but also make sure that they reflect your own personal style.  Your narrow foyer can be both functional and cute.

21. Add wainscoting for added visual interest

Wainscoting is a classic design element that has stood the test of time. It’s a fantastic addition to your small foyer, infusing it with timeless elegance, architectural interest, and a sense of warmth and coziness. This is a great design element that won’t take up a lot of space in your small foyer.

22. Use Acrylic furniture

Another great tip for how to decorate a small foyer is using acrylic furniture. It is incredibly versatile, and it can fit into various design styles.

Whether you have a minimalist, contemporary, or eclectic decor scheme, there’s an acrylic piece to complement your style. Options range from acrylic console tables and chairs to coffee tables and even storage solutions. You can mix and match acrylic furniture with other materials and styles for a unique, customized look.

23. Make your front door a fun color

One of the simplest and most effective ways to make a statement with your entryway door is by adding a pop of color.

A vibrant, contrasting door color against the backdrop of your home’s exterior can instantly draw attention and create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether you opt for a bold red, a calming blue, or a cheerful yellow, the color you choose can add to the vibe of your home.

24. Put up some statement wallpaper

A striking wallpaper or an accent wall can add personality without overwhelming the space. A small foyer might not offer much room for traditional design elements like large pieces of furniture or architectural features. However, statement wallpaper can be a game-changer. It defines the space, provides a visual focal point, and sets the tone for the entire home.

Whether you prefer bold and vibrant patterns, subtle textures, or intricate designs, wallpaper gives you the creative freedom to establish the look and feel you desire.

25. Include some mirrored furniture

Mirrored furniture pairs beautifully with other materials and finishes, such as wood, metal, or fabric. This makes it easy to integrate mirrored pieces into your existing decor while allowing them to stand out.

26. Make a statement with mosaic floor tile

Mosaic tiles can be arranged in a limitless array of patterns and designs, from classic geometric shapes to intricate motifs, floral designs, and even custom creations. This flexibility allows you to create a truly unique and personalized floor.

27. Include indoor plants

Indoor plants can be used to create height and focal points in your small foyer. Taller plants or potted trees draw the eye upward and make the space feel more open, enhancing the vertical dimension of the room.

Conclusion

I hope you’re feeling inspired and have all the ideas you need for how to decorate a small foyer and transform your foyer into a warm and welcoming space. We’ve covered everything from choosing the right color palette to utilizing vertical space, embracing minimalism, and creating personalized decor that truly reflects your style.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun with your foyer decor. And remember, the most important thing is that your small foyer feels inviting and functional for you and your family. So go ahead, get started, and let your small foyer shine as a beautiful and functional introduction to your home.

If you found these ideas helpful, please share your thoughts, progress, and any questions you may have in the comments below. I’m always here to offer advice and inspiration for your home decor journey. Happy decorating!