It's pretty common to have a small entryway. By their nature, they are long, narrow spaces, often lacking in light. ‘In New York residential entryways are typically small intimate spaces,’ say Tal Schori and Rustam Mehta, partners at Brooklyn-based architect and interiors firm, GRT Architects. ‘They rarely accommodate more than one or two people at a time. Often entryways are tasked with doing too much and can quickly become a dumping ground.'
Hall trees aside, there are other great ways to make the most of the tight space, making it feel more like a bright and airy entryway mudroom rather than a small, awkward space.
'It's important to assess the size of your entryway and make sure it is not doing too much. Whatever tasks it can accommodate should be considered carefully. For instance, if you plan to hang coats in there, make sure they can be spaced generously so that even when fully occupied, the space feels comfortable and well-composed,' recommend Tal and Rustam.
'An entryway is often a chance to have some fun and be bold, but one strong design idea is enough. It should not feel busy or overcomplicated.'