A Small Entryway That Feels Welcoming: The Doormat and the Wallpaper

Many homes do not have a real entryway. The front door opens straight into the living room or a narrow hall, and it quickly fills with shoes, bags and mud.

Two simple changes make a big difference. A good doormat stops the dirt at the door. A wallpaper wall turns a plain hall into a space that feels planned and welcoming. Neither needs much room.

How to choose a doormat

1. Use two mats if you can. A tough mat outside scrapes off mud. A softer mat inside catches the rest. Together, they keep far more dirt off your floors.
2. Go wide. Pick a mat that covers most of the width of the door, so every step lands on it.
3. Check the backing. A rubber backing stops the mat from sliding on a hard floor.
4. Make sure it clears the door. Check that the door can still open over the mat.
5. Think about cleaning. A mat you can put in the washing machine stays fresh for longer.

Now the walls. In a small entry, one wallpapered wall does more than any piece of furniture. It gives the space a personality and makes guests feel they have arrived somewhere.

A few tips for a busy space:

1. Choose a paper you can wipe. Hands, bags and wet umbrellas touch entry walls every day.
2. Protect the bottom of the wall. In a very busy hall, put wallpaper on the top part of the wall and paint the bottom, with a wooden rail between them.
3. Use stripes to lift the ceiling. Vertical stripes make a low entryway feel taller.
4. Pick a pattern that hides marks. A busy pattern hides scuffs better than a plain paper.

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Three more things every small entryway needs

1. Hooks at two heights. Adult hooks at about shoulder height, and lower hooks for children's coats and bags.
2. A mirror. A quick last look on the way out, and it bounces light into a dark hall.
3. A warm light. Even a small wall light or lamp makes coming home feel welcoming.