Shea McGee has just shared how she elevates a small entryway – the ideas are so simple and practical

Even with restricted space, your entryway can still make a stylish impression

Small entryway with console table and artwork and Shea McGee
(Image credit: Natalia Miyar, Getty Images/NBC/Contributor)

Since entryways are the first room upon entering a home, it's important that this space feels instantly welcoming. They can, however, often be awkward spaces that are difficult to design. Plus, if you have a small entryway, it can make it tricky to strike a balance between practicality and style.

But, there are plenty of design ideas you can embrace to help elevate your entryway ideas, and Shea McGee has some simple yet effective solutions. The interior designer and co-founder of McGee & Co. took to Instagram to talk through three home decor ideas, which we've rounded up below.

1. Add a bench

white entryway color scheme

(Image credit: Genna Margolis)

You may think of seating as a luxury in an entryway, but adding a compact bench can transform your entryway from feeling like a walkway to somewhere far more inviting. While a bench acts as a practical addition, it can also be a statement design piece that you can use to reflect your interior design style

In Shea's video, she explains that the small-sized bench featured in the space is 'great for tighter spaces but it has a lot of interest to it.' Below, we've rounded up some similar entryway furniture ideas that you can shop, perfect if square footage is restricted. 

2. Decorate with art

Small entryway ideas with console and mirror

(Image credit: Natalia Miyar)

Another simple way to elevate your small entryway is to decorate it with art. 'I like to create vignettes with artwork,' explains Shea. 'Instead of just placing one small piece of artwork on the wall, we can draw your eye up by stacking a couple.' 

You don't need to have large walls to fill, but adding pieces of art to even a small wall can help transform the look of your entryway while making the space feel more homely. And as Shea suggests, opting to stack smaller pieces is a good option if you're restricted on wall space. 

3. Complete the look with greenery

Small green entryway

(Image credit: Farrow & Ball)

Lastly, consider adding some greenery to your small entryway: 'If you want to finish off the look and you have limited space to work with, you can usually fit in and tuck a little floor plant into one area.' As Shea explains, you'll most likely be able to find space for a plant, no matter how small your space is. Plus, it can be a great way to bring a fresh feel to your entryway, while also adding a splash of color to these typically light-lacking rooms. 


Looking for some more help with the design of your entryway? We've rounded up the best small entryway storage ideas to give you some practical yet stylish solutions.

Paint & Color Editor

Emily is H&G's Paint & Color Editor, covering all things color across interior design and home decor. She joined the team in the summer of 2023, having studied Fashion Communication at university before working in various creative roles ahead of making the leap into interiors. She lives in Glasgow where she loves admiring the city's architecture, frequenting her favorite coffee spots, and sourcing vintage furniture for her tenement apartment. Emily's interior style is inspired by the simplicity of midcentury design, mixed with more playful modern pieces that inject small (but bold) doses of color.