Stunning methods to help you decorate a small foyer in style.
Just because you have limited space doesn't mean your front entry can't be a stylish space with a lavish focal point. When opening your front door you want a beautiful entry space that will be inviting and warm. As I was designing my foyer I wanted this front entrance to welcome people in as well as give a glimpse into the style of our home.
But designing a foyer on a limited budget can be a daunting task! Take a look at these gorgeous DIY ideas to decorate a small foyer with a big impression.
Beautiful Ways to Decorate a Small Foyer
Take a look at all of the following small entryway ideas to turn your foyer into the perfect welcoming space.
Remodeled Farmhouse Foyer
I love to create on a budget and our small space foyer was just that. How about a budget-friendly entry to set the tone for the rest of your home?
Your foyer wall is the perfect place to have a shiplap wall. This gorgeous accent wall is a thrifty substitute made from hardboard. When you need to cut costs, try this faux DIY shiplap wall tutorial. You can also try a shiplap ceiling if you are feeling ambitious! The stunning white walls shine against the lovely pine floors.
Adding decor is a great way to embellish more style into your foyer. I refinished this entry table and added a new pallet wood top. Most of my entryway decor has been thrifted and collected over the last several years. A tiered tray is an easy way to add style to a small table.
Long Entry Wainscoting
We recently moved into our new custom modern cottage and it was important to make this room feel just as welcome to our guests. A wonderful way to embellish a foyer is by adding wainscoting or other woodwork designs to your wall space. When you don't have enough space for objects, a wall design is always a good idea.
And don't forget to add a floor rug to brighten up that floor space. Beautiful decorations can also spice up a room. See the full entryway here.
You can also try:
- Picture frame molding
- Alternative wainscoting for less
- Shadow box molding
- Contemporary Boho wood design for a bold look
- Board and batten wall with a fun wall color
- Vintage white wood look
Decorate a Small Foyer with a Gallery Wall
You can never have enough gallery walls, and this one by Lilian Hope Designs is just beautiful! A foyer is a first place to have a gallery wall because it is the best way to create a great first impression. What a wonderful way to welcome people into your home!
And these are perfect for tight spaces because you can make your gallery wall as big or little as you want, depending on available wall space. However, always remember that less clutter is best. There is definitely a balance between too much and too little on your wall. See examples of all of my past gallery walls for some interior design inspiration in your foyer.
Bright Entry
I am drawn to how bright and airy this entryway by Bless'er House is! A bright color is always more inviting in smaller spaces that can be closed off. And instead of an entryway table, why not try a bench for your foyer? This adorable entryway bench makes me want to sit down and stay awhile.
I also love the storage baskets and obvious personal touch with the decorative items and wall hooks.
Looking for more bench ideas? I've repurposed and refinished some of the most beautiful benches for a foyer.
Square Batten and Board
If you are looking for a high impact low budget way to add charm to your foyer Thrifty & Chic has you covered. How awesome is this makeover? I love the square batten and board that highlights this tiny foyer. Add a bench and a small accent table and you're good to go!
Closet Turned Foyer Space
Lacking a visible storage space for your foyer? The House of Smith's turned her coat closet into the perfect entry to her home. This is such a great idea to open up the wall and create a fun nook that features a cute design, storage and sitting. And not to mention, the foyer looks so much bigger by opening up this wall. Take a look at her complete tutorial above.
Big and Bold Accents
The first thing I notice about this entry is the oversized mirror. A huge mirror like this is stunning and makes this entry appear so much bigger than it is. I also appreciate that there is just enough room for some hidden shoe storage in the corner.
Patterned Bench
This may be a compact space, but a stylish bench can make all the difference with a good impression. The soft colors give this area a fresh look that brings a fun pattern into the space. Throw in a toss pillow and a blanket throw for additional texture and design that soften the foyer. See this foyer in more detail here.
Decorate a Small Foyer with Neutral Colors
There are quite a few entryway decor ideas in this foyer that I just love. Let's begin by saying how gorgeous that white shiplap wall is. It extends to the ceiling which makes this small space appear so much bigger.
Neutral colors are utilized to decorate a small foyer like this one. I love the mix of taupe, grey, black and white. The color scheme helps this room to be cozy and inviting and not cluttered. For more neutral decorating ideas, take a look here.
The table decor accents like the large mirror and modern art are perfect for embellishing this small space.
Use a Bold Paint Color
Don’t be afraid to use a bold paint color in a small foyer. A rich hue can make the space feel more intimate and inviting. Consider deep blues, greens, or even a moody charcoal to create a dramatic entry. Darker shades can add depth to a compact space, making it feel cozier rather than cramped. If you’re worried about the area feeling too dark, balance the bold wall color with lighter accents like a white console table, a bright mirror, or metallic accessories. You can also use paint to define architectural details, such as painting the trim, door, or ceiling in a contrasting shade for a layered and sophisticated look. To enhance the effect, pair your bold walls with strategic lighting, like a statement chandelier or wall sconces, to create a warm and welcoming glow. Bold paint in a small foyer can turn an often overlooked space into a standout feature of your home.
Install a Floating Shelf
A floating shelf is an excellent solution for a small foyer. It provides a surface for keys, mail, or decorative items without taking up valuable floor space. Pair it with a small mirror or artwork above to complete the look. Opt for a shelf with a sleek, minimalist design to avoid overwhelming the space. You can choose from various materials, like wood for a warm, rustic feel, or glass for a more modern, airy vibe. To maximize functionality, consider a floating shelf with hooks or pegs underneath, giving you a spot to hang keys, hats, or bags. You can also add small decorative baskets or trays on top to keep clutter in check and give the area a more organized appearance. For a more personalized touch, decorate the shelf with a few carefully selected items, such as a small vase with fresh flowers, a scented candle, or a framed photo. This simple addition can enhance the visual interest of your foyer while providing a practical spot for daily essentials.
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Place a Statement Rug
A stylish rug can define the space and add warmth to your foyer. Choose a bold pattern or vibrant color to make a statement. Just be sure it’s durable and easy to clean, as this area tends to get a lot of foot traffic. When selecting a rug, consider materials like wool, cotton, or indoor-outdoor blends that are both resilient and easy to maintain. A rug with a striking geometric design, a classic Persian pattern, or even a playful motif can draw the eye and set the tone for the rest of your home’s decor. Make sure the rug is appropriately sized for your foyer—large enough to make an impact but not so big that it overwhelms the space.
Install a Wall Sconce
Lighting is key in a small foyer. A wall sconce not only saves space but also adds a stylish touch. Choose a fixture that complements your overall decor and provides ample light to brighten the entryway. Wall sconces are especially useful in small spaces because they don’t take up any floor or table surface area, leaving the space feeling open and uncluttered. Depending on the vibe you want to create, you can opt for sconces with clean, modern lines for a contemporary look or go for more ornate, traditional fixtures to add a touch of elegance.
Use Vertical Storage
Maximize your space by using vertical storage solutions. Tall, narrow shelving units or cabinets can provide plenty of storage without taking up much floor space. Use baskets or bins to keep items organized and out of sight. This approach is particularly useful in small foyers where floor space is at a premium, as it draws the eye upward and makes the most of your wall space. Opt for a sleek, streamlined shelving unit that blends with the room’s decor, or choose an open ladder shelf for a more modern, airy look.
Opt for Multifunctional Furniture
In a small foyer, every piece of furniture should serve more than one purpose to maximize both style and functionality without overcrowding the space. Choose pieces like a storage ottoman or a console table with drawers to keep the area tidy and organized. A storage ottoman, for example, can serve as a seat for putting on shoes while also providing hidden storage for items like scarves, gloves, or even mail. You can also use the top of the ottoman as a surface to place bags or a decorative tray.
Use Reflective Surfaces
Reflective surfaces can make a small space feel larger by bouncing light around the room and creating a sense of depth. Consider using a glass console table, a glossy wall finish, or metallic accents. These elements will reflect light and give the illusion of a more open space, making your foyer feel brighter and more inviting. A glass console table, for example, can provide a functional surface without visually weighing down the space, allowing light to pass through and making the entryway appear more expansive. Pair it with a large mirror above, which is one of the most effective ways to visually double the size of a small foyer.
And there you have my top favorite DIY ideas to decorate a small foyer. Embellish your small spaces with wood wall accents, natural light, a fresh coat of paint and neutral decor. Create a gorgeous foyer that is perfect for your living space and design preferences.
Happy Decorating!
Brooke
lindy says
wow, live your project, your truly an inspiration. I have a great eye for fine thinks in a home and have done few DIY projects.
lindy says
wow, love your project, your truly an inspiration. I have a great eye for fine thinks in a home and have done few DIY projects.
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