5 Entryway Décor Mistakes That Make a Bad Impression

The entryway is one of the most important spaces in your home, and is key to making a good first impression. However, it’s often the last thing that we think to decorate. Whether it’s cluttered with coats and shoes or missing the proper lighting, a lackluster entryway can send the wrong message.

Fortunately, these problems can be easily fixed with a few thoughtful changes, like swapping in a better rug or adding a small table and mirror. Here, we asked interior designers to share the most common décor mistakes they see in entryways—and the simple updates that can make this space feel more warm, polished, and put together.

Relying on Recessed Lighting

One of the most common mistakes in entryway design is relying too heavily on recessed lighting. While it gets the job done, this look often leaves a space feeling flat—and a little forgettable.

“When you fill the ceiling with recessed lights (like Swiss cheese), you miss the opportunity to make a strong first impression,” says Laura Marion, architect, interior designer, and founding principal of Flight Architecture. 

Her advice? Swap in a flush-mount or semi-flush fixture that adds a bit of presence without overwhelming the entryway. “I usually choose a flush mount that complements nearby lighting in the kitchen or dining area, but that still feels sculptural and intentional,” she says.

Deborah Shafier, interior designer at Iguana Architects, recommends going bold. “Lighting is the perfect place to introduce luxurious materials like Murano glass, plaster, marble, linen, rattan, or metal finishes,” she says.

Ignoring Floor Décor

Another common mistake? Skipping the rug. Leaving the floor bare can make an entryway feel cold, unfinished, or like an afterthought.

“For the longest time, I didn’t have a rug in my tiled entry,” says Marion. “I worried it would get dirty and make the space feel cluttered. But once I added a properly sized, flat-weave rug, the whole entry changed. It suddenly felt like a real room.” She recommends choosing one that’s durable and easy to clean.

Shafier also recommends paying attention to the size: “Too small and it looks like a doormat; too large and it overwhelms the space.” She recommends a low-pile or washable option, with 4 to 5 inches of floor around it.

Inviting Clutter

The best entryways find the sweet spot between beauty and function—because without thoughtful storage, clutter can quickly take over. This is especially true in busy homes with kids, pets, or constant deliveries.

“Be intentional with your furniture and built-ins,” says Shafier. “Think beyond just coats and shoes. Plan for umbrellas, dog leads, reusable bags, and more.”

When choosing a console or custom cabinetry, she prefers closed storage, because it keeps things looking clean and polished. “Coat hooks are great for large, open entryways, but each should only hold one or two items,” she adds. “Overloading them instantly looks messy.”

Forgetting the Walls

One common mistake in entryway design is forgetting about the walls. Without something there to catch the eye, the space can feel very plain. Marion suggests using art to make the walls stand out.

“One large piece, or even two smaller ones stacked, can send a clear message: ‘You’ve arrived,’” she says. She recommends choosing artwork that’s big enough to fill the wall, ideally from floor to ceiling, to add interest and help define the area.

Even if your entry isn’t separated by walls or doors, adding something tall and eye-catching makes the space feel more welcoming and purposeful.

Missing Social Cues

Once you’ve tackled the big design fixes, it’s easy to overlook the little things that can help guests feel comfortable, like knowing where to put their shoes or coats.

“A tasteful bench and some hooks go a long way. While art and lighting should take center stage, a small seat and well-placed hooks prevent clutter from building up,” says Marion.

For tight spaces, she recommends one or two firm, cylindrical poufs. And if you have the room, a vintage bench is ideal, as it offers seating and storage space.