This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Details.
The entryway is the first thing guests see and the last thing you pass on the way out, so a little decoration there has a big effect. It is also the busiest few feet of the house, so Christmas decor must not block the door or hold the mess.
Keep the walkway clear, decorate at eye level and above, and add something that helps with coats and shoes.
Before you decorate
- Keep the path clear. Leave the door able to open fully and at least 30 inches of floor free.
- Decorate up, not out. Wall, door and ceiling space is free; the floor is not.
- Use low-heat lights. LED lights are cool to the touch and safe near coats.
- Stick to one palette. Two colors and one metal finish look planned.
01A wreath on the front door
A wreath on the outside of the door is a classic. Use an over-the-door hook so the paint stays untouched, and check that it does not stop the door from closing.
02Garland on the door frame
Garland around the frame turns the door into a focal point. Use removable clips and tuck the plug end into a corner.
03Console table styling
A narrow console works as a mini scene: a small tree or lit garland, a candle, a bowl for keys. Keep the surface half empty so you can still drop things on it.
04A bench with a throw
A bench with a knit throw and two cushions gives guests a place to take off boots. Stack a basket of slippers underneath.
05Hooks with a garland of stockings
Wall hooks hold coats and stockings at once. Use a row of matching ones and hang a stocking on each end.
06A mirror with lights around it
A mirror doubles the light, so wrap a string around the frame. It makes a narrow hallway feel wider.
07Lantern on the floor
A tall lantern with LED candles beside the door gives warm light without taking much floor. Choose one with a base wide enough not to tip.
08A small tabletop tree
A 2 ft tree on a shelf or console is enough for a hallway. Pre-lit models with a battery pack need no outlet.
09A seasonal doormat
A new doormat is cheap and changes the look at once. Pick a low-pile one that sheds snow and does not catch the door.
10A shoe and boot tray
Winter means wet boots. A boot tray keeps the floor clean and the decor visible. See our entryway storage ideas for more.
Entryway shoe storage at Homary
A plan by time
- Ten minutes: a wreath and a doormat.
- An hour: add garland, lights on the mirror and a lantern.
- A weekend: add the console scene, a bench and boot tray.
Before you pay
- Check that nothing swings into the door.
- Use removable hooks for rentals.
- Keep real candles away from coats and garland.
- Store ornaments in one labeled box.
