This Clever 2-Piece Set Transforms a Small Entryway Into a Stylish Mudroom — No Renovation Required

If there’s one thing I could change about my apartment (there are many), it would be the entryway. Its small size doesn’t give me very much space to store my shoes, coats, and bags, so my stuff ends up strewn about the house — which gets messy on rainy days. Ideally I’d have an actual mudroom, where I could slip off my shoes and coat, drop my mail, and leave the grime of the outside world behind before I get comfortable at home. Remodeling is obviously out of the question (I’m a renter!), but Article’s Kouva Bench and Wall Panel Storage Set achieves the same effect without any of the work. And it looks totally custom! 

The Kouva set creates the entryway I wish I had. It’s technically a two-piece bundle that includes Article’s 47-inch-wide wall panel and matching storage bench. They can be bought separately, but together as a set they essentially create a “mudroom” out of thin air. And it’s well-proportioned for smaller spaces, too (79.75”x47″x17.5″). 

The wall panel features six metal hanging hooks and two wooden shelves, so there’s room for coats, bags, and hats, and a few spots for guests’ items. The storage bench boasts a cushiony, fabric-upholstered seat, and is equipped with a built-in shoe rack and a spacious pull-out drawer for extra hidden storage. It’s the perfect place to perch while putting on your shoes before heading out the door.  

The Kouva Bench and Wall Panel Storage Set is available in two finishes: Natural Oak with a Santolina gray bench cushion, and Smoked Oak with an Algonquin green cushion. 

I got a closer look at the Kouva set while visiting the Article showroom in Vancouver earlier this year, and can confidently say that it’s just as stunning in person. Its solid-wood design and fluted finish give it a minimalist, Scandinavian vibe that would make a stylish first impression in any entryway. I saw it in the Smoked Oak finish, which had a rich, warm appearance. Paired with the metal hooks and durable fabric upholstery, it looks incredibly high-end. 

While testing out the set in person, I was impressed by how solid and well-made the Kouva set feels — especially for the price. One Article shopper echoes the sentiment: “We thought it looked like the perfect solution for our entryway, and we were encouraged by the numerous positive reviews,” they wrote. “But for the price, we truly were not expecting such a solid, well-constructed, and beautiful piece.” People pay top dollar to have pieces like this custom-built for their homes, so the fact that Article is selling this ready-made option for only $1,029 is a big deal. “Our son, who is a general contractor, helped us install it and was incredibly impressed with the build quality,” wrote that same Article shopper. How’s that for a glowing endorsement? 

The set does require light assembly; you’ll need to drill six holes into the wall to anchor the panel portion. But reviewers agree that doing so is pretty straightforward. Even as a renter, I’d gladly drill the six holes into my wall to experience the benefits of this functional, Scandi-cool piece. And when it’s time to move out, you better believe I’ll be disassembling it and patching those holes — because the Kouva set is coming with me! 

Buy: Kouva Bench and Wall Panel Storage Set, $1,029 (normally $1,048)