5 Essential Entryway Furniture Pieces: Making a Great First Impression

There are a lot of clichés out there about first impressions: “First impressions never die”, “Trust is built on good first impressions”, “First impressions matter”, and “You never have a second chance to make a first impression”. This list goes on. There are many factors that contribute to a first impression including ones appearance, car and home. If you are entertaining a guest for the first time in your home, then you are making a first impression. The room that is responsible for making this “first impression” is the entryway. Nothing makes a great first “domestic” impression like a tidy, well-decorated entryway. With the proper choice and use of entryway furniture, this is an easy goal to achieve. Below are 5 essential entryway furniture pieces that contribute to an inviting atmosphere:

1. Entryway Bench: A place to sit is essential to any entryway. It provides a place for a guest to sit in order to remove their shoes and put them back on. If you have limited space in your entryway it is best to find a multifunctional piece of furniture. One option is a small bench that has a storage option built-in. There are many variations of benches with storage. If your space does not allow for a bench, consider a simple upright chair. An ordinary upright chair with a unique paint color and attractive upholstery can make for a great accent piece, not to mention a great conversation starter. To add extra storage, place a decorative basket underneath the chair to store hats and gloves.

2. Entry Table: This is also often referred to as a console table or a hallway table. This table typically has a minimal depth so that it does not stick out far from the wall, maximizing walking space. An overcrowded entryway is not inviting, so it is important to find furniture that fits your unique space. The entryway table adds dimension to your space and is a fine place to display personal photo frames.

3. Coat Rack: A place to hang scarves, sweaters, and coats is another vital piece to an entryway. If you can’t find a coatrack that fits your style and space, another option is wall hooks mounted horizontally above the entryway bench. This is an easy place to creatively express your style. Instead of ordinary hooks, use antique door knobs. Not into antiques? Find something that fits your style that can be upcycled into hooks. Be sure to keep the hooks and coat racks clear for guest use. This leaves the entry way looking organized and uncluttered.

4. Hall Tree: If your entryway does not already have a closet or if the closet is stuff with boxes of winter clothes, toys, sports gear and a vacuum cleaner you might not have enough room for anything else. Adding a hall tree is a good idea. A hall tree is a place to stow away personal coats, shoes, scarves, etc., leaving coat racks and hooks clear for guest use and easy access for family members to grab their stuff and go. Again the closet helps to create the tidy and inviting space that an entryway should be but if you need just a little more space then a hall tree will help.

5. Wall Décor: This last detail is what will take your space from ordinary to extraordinary. It will give your guests a glimpse into your life. This detail will solidify that great first impression. Some pieces to consider for your walls are monogrammed art or last name art. There are many cool options for highlighting your family’s name through art. A wall canvas family photo is another great wall piece. If canvas isn’t your style, consider getting a photo printed on aluminum or wood. Both are very unique options that will make your space pop.

However you choose to decorate your entryway, have fun with it and make it your own. Customize each of the suggested pieces to your style. Let your personality shine through. After all, it is the first impression your guests will have of your life at home.