Country Living
After seeing the front door and entry inspiration in the first 31 Days post, I felt excited about fall entryways all over again. I’ve always cared a lot about the entrance to my home — it should feel warm and welcoming, especially in autumn. You don’t need many changes to transform a bland entry into a cozy, inviting space. Here are practical, easy tips to create that welcoming autumn ambience.
Pottery Barn
Tip 1: Start with a focal point. Choose a striking table, cabinet, bench or a bold mirror to capture attention and reflect light. A gallery of framed photos also works well. If your entry flows into another room, make the visible focal point in that space feel welcoming too.
Tip 2: Add warm lighting. A lamp or candles create a soft glow in the evening. A dark entry feels uninviting, so consider wall sconces if you don’t have tabletop space. Pick lighting with character to add personality.
House Beautiful
Tip 3: Use creative hooks or racks. A coat closet is practical, but an interesting rack or inventive hooks add charm. Repurpose shutters, an old door or a wooden ladder with hooks to create a unique hanging area.
Tip 4: Display usable seasonal accessories. Wool blankets, boots, scarves and mittens not only look cozy but are functional. Hang them on hooks or place them in baskets for easy access and texture.
Pottery Barn
Tip 5: Layer beneath furniture. Place books, baskets, trunks, crates or a small footstool under open tables or benches. Layering adds depth and makes the space feel collected and warm.
Tip 6: Add height and variety on surfaces. Stack books or use footed plates and pedestals to elevate accessories. Try leaning art or mirrors against the wall for a relaxed, lived-in look.
Tip 7: Corral smaller items. Use a basket or tray on an entry table to group keys, gloves and other small items. It keeps things tidy and introduces texture.
Tip 8: Go big when possible. One larger object or wall hanging often makes more impact than several small pieces. Choose bold items to make a clear, welcoming statement.
Country Living
Tip 9: Include a conversation piece. An interesting item that sparks comments brings personality to your entry. Look around your home for something unexpected to showcase.
Tip 10: Change accessories seasonally. Use your entry table or a focal wall to display seasonal decor or holiday-themed arrangements. Swapping a few pieces breathes fresh life into the space.
Tip 11: Add pops of color. If your entry feels dull, introduce an unexpected color on the door, a lamp, throw, shelf or piece of furniture. Even one patterned wallpapered wall, a bold light fixture or a painted ceiling can transform the space.
Tip 12: Warm up cold entries. Textured wallpaper like grasscloth, wood-paneled walls or a cozy rug adds warmth and tactile interest to an otherwise chilly entryway.
Pottery Barn
Autumn Action step:
Look at your entry right now. If you don’t have a defined entryway, use the area around your front door. Think of a few simple changes you can make to create more ambience — everyone has space for a few charming details.
Take a picture of your entry and share it on the blog’s social page if you’d like to show your progress.
Good Housekeeping
Tell us about your entryway in the comments: what do you like, what would you change?
Want to follow the series? Check out the other posts in 31 Days of Autumn Bliss.