Decide what you need your faux entryway to do for you
Just need somewhere to hang your coats and keys?
Pick an unused wall and get started. Hang a variety of hooks in different sizes and organize them according to use.
For example, place smaller hooks for hats, scarves, keyrings, bags and other small items above larger ones for things such as coats and bookbags.
A small chair, bench or footstool works well as a place to sit while you take off those winter boots.
If you have the room, a small dresser or nightstand can function as a drop-zone for the kids’ schoolwork. Hang a family calendar/whiteboard to keep everyone’s schedule front and center.
Once you decide how you want to use your entryway, you can narrow down the organization tools you’ll need. You don’t have to spend a fortune. In fact, you may already have everything you need right now.
Organizational tools
Use baskets, bins or trays to create individual spaces for each family member. Make coat hooks and/or baskets kid-accessible, and use labels to keep things organized.
Closet organization
If you’re fortunate enough to have a closet, use it as an entryway.
Place hooks at different heights to hold purses, backpacks, etc. and floating shelves to keep shoes nice and tidy.
If you have the space for it, place a small dresser or table inside the closet. Use it to tuck away seasonal items such as scarves, gloves, and hats.
The dresser or table can also double as a drop-zone for everyday things such as keys, purses, mail, etc.
Kitchen corner
Does your outside door open into your kitchen?
Set a freestanding island cart in an unused corner of the kitchen and use it as a catchall for things such as keys, homework, etc. Hang hooks behind it for coats, purses and/or backpacks.
If there’s not enough space for a cart, capture gloves, hats and coats using hooks and pocket organizers hung on the back of the door.
Rugs, mirrors, and wall art
Style is just as important as function when it comes to faking a foyer.
The goal is to make the foyer seamlessly blend into the rest of the home while still remaining functional. Do this by keeping any accessories in your entryway in line with your home’s decor.
Finally, use a beautiful throw rug to mark the space you’re using as a “landing zone” and a mirror for that last-minute wardrobe check before walking out the door.
