bestyears--> those hall tree storage benches make a lot of sense, but I have my doubts about how it would look in our small home. The spot I'm looking to fill is almost directly across from the font door and can be seen easily from the living room. I need something that is not bulky or imposing because it's a small wall (four feet wide) next to a built-in cabinet that houses an aquarium and supplies. Also we have 8 foot ceilings. I don't know that I like the idea of walking in and seeing people's coats, backpacks, purses or whatever hanging on it. I would see it because the front door/entry space is in the middle of the house and we walk through there all the time to go from bedrooms/bathrooms to common spaces, etc. I really want something that looks light yet substantial, but not imposing, and can store the living room blankets. Although I like the idea of a wooden bench for practical reasons, I'd rather provide something upholstered. What about this bench, in microfiber red? I like red b/c that's my living room accent color so it would tie in well. Here is a link that might be useful: red bench

Thanks so much for the feedback! It seems there are two schools of thought: keep it simple b/c there's already a lot going on vs. add extra table etc. I'm still waffling about the shelf, myself! :-) I like the idea of adding a mirror because it will probably help to brighten the space. Also, I could easily check how I look (or whatever) before heading out instead of running down to the bathroom (nearest mirror). Re: the tape--> It's the blue tape from when they textured and painted the wall. I would take it off except we need to re-texture part of it again. teacats--> which wall are you referring to--the wall closest to the door or the wall more recessed from the front door (I think the first wall I see is the recessed wall)? I COMPLETELY agree about the clock. I've never found anything I like so I just keep the old clock. Also, a bigger clock would be easier to read :-) mjlb--> you're right about all the moulding etc; I'm looking for a cheap fix though, so painting out the doors is probably what I'll do for now. We do have to replace the closet door b/c it has a hole in it so that will be the time for the moulding. All our old interior door mouldings match the closet but whoever put in the new front and garage doors changed it. evaperconti--> I like your idea about the console table w/bench underneath and a chair by the door. I've been scanning Craigslist but, so far, nothing. Plant won't work, unfortunately, but I could try for some other vertical element. So many great ideas!!! You guys have given me a lot to think about and helped me to see the entry a little differently. Thanks so much :-)

I assume given your choice in table, that your taste is more modern? I tend to skew traditional/farmhouse but I think a good, functioning entryway table should have a mirror above the table (or artwork, but I prefer mirror if it's a narrow hall, to bounce light around), a bowl or tray for keys and a vase with dried flowers, or fresh flowers that you rotate each week. Depending on if you need lighting there, you could also add a lamp. The rest is purely your taste. Pillar candles can look pretty too. Under my table, I have baskets for shoes, because with 3 children, I like them to take their shoes off before entering the house. I also add in seasonal decor based on the time of year.

Scrolling through the photos my first thought was it would look nice to have a plant or flowers for some softness. The table is pretty ornate so I'd keep the top simple and less. The last photo is better balanced. I'd actually lower the flowers a few more inches in the vase.