I don’t know about you, but I’ve lived in a lot of apartments and houses throughout my life and one of the perplexing challenges in small spaces is how to create an entry when one doesn’t really exist. Not only does it feel weird to just walk into a room when entering from outside, where do you put your keys, umbrella, etc.? I thought I would tackle that problem with some suggestions about how to solve this issue with style.
If you’re lucky enough to have a coat closet that is near the front door (and you can spare the storage) an easy trick is to remove the door and create an entry alcove. A small table, a piece of art, some accessories – and voilà- instant atmosphere!
If there’s no closet nearby, installing a shelf and wall hooks, plus a small ottoman or bench and a place to store needed items can be stylish, as long as you don’t overcrowd it. There are even some small coat racks that have built-in benches that can be a repository for stuff when you first walk through the door.
How you arrange the furniture in the room can also help create a separate entryway. If it’s possible to utilize the back of a sofa (and a sofa table, if space allows) you can create an entry “hall” as you walk through the door.
How you arrange the furniture in the room can also help create a separate entryway. If it’s possible to utilize the back of a sofa (and a sofa table, if space allows) you can create an entry “hall” as you walk through the door.
Using a bookcase can also be a great divider – I would recommend one that is open-backed so that you can still see through it – and it’s a great place to showcase some of your decorative items as well as providing storage.
If it makes sense in the space, building a pony (half) wall is a great way to separate the entry from the rest of the room without making everything feel smaller.
Installing a “landing pad” of different flooring can instantly make the space feel separate – just be sure that everything is level and flows seamlessly.
But even if you’re in a rental, utilizing a small area rug to define the entry helps to create a visual divider and define the space – not mention keeping the floors a little cleaner!
Use your imagination – and don’t let lack of space keep you from finding your keys!
Photo Credit: forbes.com