12 Ways to Avoid Entryway Chaos
Make Your Comings and Goings Better With a Bench, Mirror, Cubby and More
Between work, errands and social activities, we enter and exit our homes multiple times a day. There's a good chance you've been challenged by the game of a car-key hunt more than once. You've probably run across the house to the nearest mirror a few times in your life. And sweeping and mopping around the front door may be high on your list of things you can do with your eyes closed. So, in an attempt to increase efficiency and stop the lingering chaos, here are 12 ideas to bring your morning routine and post-work shuffle to a more orderly state.
Bench. Having a bench to rest against while pulling on boots or strapping up shoelaces is much more comfortable than attempting a balancing act each day. Of course, if you don't have space for a bench, a chair or ottoman will work just as well.
Cubbies. When you think about how many things you lug to and from work, school and extracurricular activities, it only makes sense to have a place to drop everything when you get home for the evening. Bag, shoes, hat, umbrella, water bottle — the list goes on.
And if there are sports involved, you're probably well aware of the difficulties behind keeping everything together. Improve organization by giving everybody his own cubby.
More ideas for mud rooms
And if there are sports involved, you're probably well aware of the difficulties behind keeping everything together. Improve organization by giving everybody his own cubby.
More ideas for mud rooms
Storage. If the idea of a cubby wall seems too cluttered for your tastes, try a storage solution with doors. It's the same concept, but lends a much cleaner look. Although, I must say, your things may get put away more frequently when a hook is at the ready.
Door Mat. Rocks and dirt have a funny way of traveling throughout the house, especially if there's not a "shoes-off" rule. Keep dust and dirt at bay by using a pretty door mat. Shake it out once a week and wash it once a month and you're good to go.
How to choose a rug for your entryway
How to choose a rug for your entryway
Coat tree. More unique than your average wall-mounted hooks or coat closet, a coat tree is a practical way to hang things you won't need until later. I like the thought of seeing my favorite scarves and hats as I come and go. Why hide the things you find beautiful and visually stunning? I like this one made from reclaimed roots.
Personality. Adding something that will make you feel at home and your house guests feel welcome is a gateway to happiness and conversation once you're inside. This chalkboard shows off this family's fun and creative style, and also gives them a place to see daily reminders before they leave for the day.
Umbrella holder. So, umbrella holders have always seemed kind of like a novelty to me, but it may be because I'm more of a rain jacket kind of gal. But I can see these being quite useful in the rainier parts of the country, and it gives you reason to splurge on a pretty umbrella rather than the $6 one you found on clearance.
Tip: Large vases make perfect umbrella corrals.
Tip: Large vases make perfect umbrella corrals.
Table lamp. If you prefer to come home to a lit space rather than a dark one, a nearby table lamp may be something to try out. Typically, light bulbs used for lamps are a lower wattage than those used for ceiling lights, resulting in less energy used while you're away and the ambiance is a nice touch as well.
Catchall. A place to ditch things such as your keys, bag and mail can be a huge help. Not only do you have a place to set things when you're toting an armful of groceries, but you'll also save time in the morning when everything is in one place.
More ways with console tables
More ways with console tables
Boot tray. You know the drill: muddy puddles vs. fresh socks. Muddy puddles always win. Keep them contained in a boot tray during the seasons of slush and rain.
Tip: Take it to the next level and add some decorative stones. The water will sink to the bottom and you won't have the eyesore of a muddy tray all time.
Tip: Take it to the next level and add some decorative stones. The water will sink to the bottom and you won't have the eyesore of a muddy tray all time.
Architecture. An entryway as gorgeous as this one has every right to be the center of attention. If you're lucky enough to have something similar in your own home, you may want to keep the extras to a minimum and let the space speak for itself.
More:
Make the Most of a Console Table
The Handsome Mud Room
Browse photos of entryway designs
More:
Make the Most of a Console Table
The Handsome Mud Room
Browse photos of entryway designs
Click the "More Info" button under the photo for the product tag on this one.