17 Cute Entryway Apartment Ideas That Will Make Your Space Look Bigger

Make your space look bigger with these 17 Cute Entryway Apartment Ideas. Is your entryway feeling cramped, or is it a forgotten space in your apartment? In smaller living spaces, such as apartments, entryways often get overlooked. However, this small area has the potential to set the tone for your entire home. By making a few smart design choices, you can transform even the tiniest entryway into a functional, stylish space that feels more open, inviting, and organized.

1. Install Built-In Shelving

If you can add built-in shelving, this is a game-changer for small entryways. Built-ins provide plenty of storage while blending seamlessly with the wall, so they don’t take up extra floor space. You can use these shelves to store shoes, display decor, or house everyday items like keys and mail. Painted in the same color as the wall, built-ins create a streamlined, spacious look.

2. Hang a Statement Piece

A statement piece like a bold piece of art or a large clock can act as a focal point in your entryway. By drawing the eye to a single feature, you create a sense of intentional design that distracts from the small size of the space. Make sure the statement piece complements the overall aesthetic of your home, so the entryway feels like a cohesive part of your living space.

3. Go Bold with Wallpaper

If you want to add some personality to your entryway, consider going bold with wallpaper. A patterned wallpaper can add depth and interest to your entryway, making it feel more dynamic. Stick to lighter colors or simple designs to avoid overwhelming the space, and use it on one accent wall if your entryway is especially small. Pair the wallpaper with minimalist furniture and accessories to maintain balance.

4. Install Wall-Mounted Hooks

Wall-mounted hooks are a simple yet effective way to keep your entryway clutter-free. They provide a spot for coats, bags, and hats without taking up any floor space, which helps the area feel less cramped. Choose sleek, minimalist hooks that blend with your wall color or make a statement with bold, modern designs. Not only do they add functionality, but they can also serve as an eye-catching feature.

5. Layer Lighting with Wall Sconces

If you want to avoid taking up valuable surface space with lamps, consider installing wall sconces. Wall-mounted sconces add a soft, welcoming glow to your entryway while freeing up space on your console or bench. Choose sconces with a modern, sleek design to add sophistication without overpowering the small space.

6. Add a Large Mirror

Mirrors are one of the most powerful tools in creating the illusion of a bigger space. By reflecting light and views, they make your entryway feel more expansive. A large, oversized mirror placed on the wall or leaned against it instantly opens up the area, giving the impression of a wider, airier entryway. Choose a mirror with a decorative frame to add character, or keep it simple for a more modern aesthetic.

7. Opt for Vertical Storage

When floor space is limited, going vertical is key. Wall-mounted shelves or cubbies provide essential storage without encroaching on valuable floor space. You can use these shelves to display decorative items or place baskets to hold everyday items like scarves and gloves. By utilizing the height of your walls, you create a sense of vertical expansion, making the space feel taller and less confined.

8. Use a Runner Rug

A long, narrow runner rug can do wonders for visually elongating your entryway. Choose a light-colored or patterned rug that draws the eye down the length of the space. Not only will this trick make your entryway appear longer, but it also adds warmth and texture, making the area feel more welcoming. Make sure to choose a low-pile rug to prevent it from looking too bulky.

9. Use a Slim Console Table

A slim console table is a perfect solution for adding storage without too much space. These tables are narrow enough to fit even the tiniest of entryways but offer a surface to place your keys, mail, or decor. Opt for one with open legs to maintain an airy feel, and if possible, choose a table with a built-in drawer for extra hidden storage. Pair it with a large mirror above to reflect light and further open up the space.

10. Go for a Floating Bench

If you want to add seating without crowding your entryway, a floating bench is a fantastic solution. This space-saving option provides a spot to sit while putting on shoes, and the open space beneath makes the area feel more open. Pair it with decorative pillows or a small plant on top to add a personalized touch. You can also tuck baskets or storage bins underneath to maximize the functionality of the space.

11. Incorporate Multipurpose Furniture

In a small entryway, every piece of furniture should serve multiple functions. Look for a bench with built-in storage, a coat rack with shelving, or an ottoman that doubles as a shoe rack. Multipurpose furniture helps you reduce clutter while still maintaining a stylish and organized space. These pieces maximize utility without overwhelming the entryway.

12. Create a Gallery Wall

Adding art to your entryway can make it feel more like an extension of your home rather than just a pass-through space. A gallery wall draws the eye upward, giving the impression of height and making the space seem larger. Choose artwork or photos that reflect your personality, and arrange them in a balanced way but not overly busy. Keep the frames and artwork sizes consistent to avoid visual clutter.

13. Keep It Light and Bright

Lighter colors naturally make a space feel larger, which is why a light, neutral color palette is ideal for small entryways. Shades of white, soft gray, or pale beige will reflect more light and give your entryway an open, airy feeling. If you’re a fan of bold colors, consider incorporating them through accessories or accents, rather than wall color, to maintain that spacious vibe.

14. Choose Minimalist Lighting

Lighting can make or break the feel of a small entryway. Opt for a minimalist light fixture that provides plenty of brightness without overwhelming the space. Recessed lighting or wall sconces are great options because they don’t take up any floor or table space. If you choose a hanging pendant or chandelier, go for a sleek, modern design that complements the size of the entryway.

15. Opt for Open Storage Solutions

Instead of heavy, closed cabinets or chests, choose open storage solutions like shelves or ladder racks. Open storage keeps the area feeling light and spacious because it allows the eye to see through the space. Use baskets or bins to corral smaller items so they don’t create clutter. Open storage also allows you to display stylish decor, making your entryway both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

16. Add a Pop of Color with Accessories

While neutral tones are great for creating an airy space, a pop of color can add personality to your entryway without making it feel smaller. Use accessories like pillows, rugs, or artwork to introduce color in a controlled way. A bright throw pillow on a bench or a patterned rug can give the area a fresh, modern feel while still maintaining a sense of spaciousness.

17. Use Glass or Lucite Furniture

Furniture made from glass or lucite is perfect for small spaces because it virtually disappears, creating the illusion of more space. A clear console table or bench can serve its purpose without visually cluttering the room. The transparent material allows light to pass through, making your entryway feel airy and less confined.