Problem Solvers: 9 Smart & Stylish Finds for Small Entryways

Over the years I’ve come to realize that one of the keys to a well-functioning, uncluttered home is having an entryway that works well. It’s a spot to gather up all the things that you’ll need when you go out into the world, and also a sort of buffer zone to keep unwanted clutter from entering your home. Maxwell has really explored this with his idea of the landing strip, which is worth checking out. But vital as it is, a functioning entryway can be hard to achieve when you’re dealing with a really small apartment. That’s where these smart products come in.

As a small space dweller myself, I’m always on the lookout for things that make life in limited square footage a little bit easier. These nine items fit the bill—clever solutions that will get the job done, without taking up a lot of space (plus, they look good to boot).

This little magnetic rack is so clever—it’s a perfect spot for mail, keys, and other small items, and because it sticks to the door, it doesn’t take up any space at all.

A mirror is a great thing to have in the entryway, to check your look before you head out the door—and this one conveniently incorporates hooks and hanging bars for bags, hats, jackets, etc.

These wall-mounted shoe storage cabinets are great for tight spaces, because they have a very slim profile (only 7.25″ thick), with a shelf on top to catch smaller items. And you can group together as many boxes as you have shoes. (For other ideas for using TRONES in your house, check out this post.)

Another nice thing to have in an entryway is a bench—and this one doubles as shoe storage, too.

This wall-mounted storage system has a hook for coats and bags, and baskets for smaller items. (There’s also an option that includes a mirror and a tray, with hooks underneath.)

This little valet stand would be the perfect thing for hanging a few coats, and the tray at the top can hold keys and mail. It’s basically an entire landing strip in a very small footprint.

If you have a lot of things that you want to store in the entryway but no closet, this coat rack has you covered. There’s plenty of storage for coats, shoes and bags, and you could even stack storage boxes on top.

Looking for extra hanging space without reaching too deep into your pockets? This wall-mounted rack (with or without the coordinating shoe rack) might be just the thing.

I appreciate the versatility of this wall-hung storage combination, which has hooks for jackets or bags, a shelf that could be used for mail, and a cup for sunglasses or other sundries.