The entry way acts like an anchor. A place where we say goodbye last and hello first. A go-to area for the details of everyday life - keys (check), purse or wallet (check), umbrella (check), quick look in the mirror (check). Even in smaller homes, where space is more limited, creating an entry way will allow you a moment to gather yourself as you head out for your day. Home Magazine's September '08 issue has a few tips for creating a colorful and organized entry way in your own home.
How To: Make A Colorful And Organized Entry Way
Tip #1: Re-use existing furniture, like an old desk. With a few hours and a little paint, this piece will feel brand new.
Tip #2: Place a large mirror or group a collection of smaller mirrors over the desk. This will help expand the space and allow a typically narrow entry way to feel larger.
Tip #3: Place a storage ottoman under the desk. This doubles as a little place to sit and a place to put scarves, hats, blankets, etc.
Tip #4: Use letter boxes to organize papers, like mail and catalogs, to organize any clutter on the entry way table. We also like the idea of a small tray or hook that is designated for keys so you'll know where to drop them off and where to pick them up.
Tip #5: Place a large vase or container nearby for umbrellas. We love the example Home Magazine features - the Two's Company Owl Umbrella Stand, $99
[Images and tips via Home Magazine September '08]
For more helpful hints with your entry way, click below:
How Do You Organize Your Entry?
- Look! Asian-themed Pink, Gold, and Blue Entry Way
- Look! Matching The Front Door with the Hallway
Comments (11)
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This is so lovely!
view mrsemerald's profile
Many people I know would be more inclined to use those boxes if they didn't have lids. Making it as easy as possible to put things in their places usually helps.
view Jeri Dansky's profile
My family has a desk like this in our entryway/kitchen area and we have the recycling organized underneath and the drawers hold typical desk/junk drawer stuff as well as chargers, batteries, phone books, address books and labels, cook books etc. The mail organizer and typical entry way stuff including a charger valet are on top.
view Enamorada's profile
If only it would rain more in L.A. I need to have that owl umbrella stand!
view valleyval's profile
could this be any cuter? I am so buying that owl
view hanako66's profile
This is lovely, but in Montreal our entry needs to store: boots, snow pants, jackets, hats, and gloves for four people; keys, baby stroller (and sled for the days the snow is too deep for the stroller); dog leash; towels to clean the dog's paws when we come back inside from the snow, the kids' backpacks, and more.
I've never figured out how to keep the entry from being a messy heap. A slim console with a dish for keys and mail just won't do the job.
view Lisa Hunter (Montreal)'s profile
ooh love the owl! perfect for rainy winters in san francisco!
view misslyss's profile
Oh so pretty. If only I had an actual entryway instead of a narrow hall that spills right into my living room. I've had to use a console, but it certainly wouldn't look good with umbrellas next to it.
view atlantadesigner's profile
thanks for the link for the owl! i love it. :) too bad i don't use umbrellas here in tucson..
view animalhouze's profile
Does anyone know where i can get that owl? I love it!
view dwang's profile
dwang - you can find it on amazon.com
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001AQ6GEC/ref=s9sims_c1_79_img1-rfc_p_si3?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-1&pf_rd_r=0AXMFCH5BZARPCKM5JS9&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=463383351&pf_rd_i=507846
view digitaldiva's profile