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Introduction
When you live in a small space, every square inch counts—especially in the entryway, which often becomes a dumping ground for shoes, coats, bags, and keys. As someone who’s lived in several tiny apartments, I’ve learned that a cluttered entryway doesn’t just look messy; it can actually affect your daily routine and stress levels. The good news? With some strategic planning, even the smallest entryway can become an organized, functional space that sets the tone for your entire home.
I’ve spent years experimenting with different entryway storage ideas in my own compact living spaces, and I’m excited to share the solutions that have made the biggest difference. These eight storage ideas are specifically designed for small entryways, combining practicality with style so you don’t have to sacrifice aesthetics for organization. You can DIY many of these projects or mix them with a few well-chosen, ready-made pieces to get results faster.
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1. Maximize Vertical Space with Wall-Mounted Shelves
When floor space is limited, the walls become your best friend. I discovered this the hard way after tripping over shoes in my narrow hallway for months before finally looking up and realizing all that unused vertical space.
Wall-mounted shelves are game-changers for small entryways because they provide storage without consuming precious floor space. I recommend installing adjustable shelving systems that allow you to modify the height between shelves as your storage needs change.
- Use upper shelves for items you don’t need daily (like seasonal accessories)
- Keep frequently used items at eye level
- Add small containers or trays on shelves to corral keys and sunglasses
- Install a narrow shelf specifically for mail and wallets near the door
If you want a quick upgrade, starting with a simple set of floating entryway shelves can instantly give you a “drop zone” without taking up any floor space.
View on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
View on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Pro Tip: Choose decorative brackets that complement your home’s style—they’ll turn your shelving into a design feature rather than just functional storage. I found that brass brackets added warmth to my otherwise minimalist entryway.
2. Double Duty: Multi-Functional Furniture
In small spaces, every piece of furniture should earn its keep by serving multiple purposes. When I moved into my current apartment, I replaced my bulky coat stand with a storage bench, and it’s been one of my best decisions.
A bench with built-in storage underneath provides seating for putting on shoes while concealing seasonal items, umbrellas, or even pet supplies. Similarly, an ottoman with a removable top can store gloves and scarves while offering a place to sit.
I’ve found that narrow hall trees—furniture pieces that combine hooks, shelves, and sometimes seating—are particularly effective for maximizing functionality in minimal space. My hall tree has a small bench, three hooks, and a shelf above, essentially providing three entryway storage ideas in one compact unit.
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Pro Tip: Look for furniture with legs rather than pieces that sit directly on the floor. The visible space underneath creates the illusion of more room, making your entryway feel less cramped.
3. Hang It Up: Hooks and Pegboards
Sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective. I resisted installing hooks for years because I thought they’d look cluttered, but properly organized wall hooks have become essential to my entryway organization.
Hooks and pegboards provide instant organization for items that tend to get dropped on the floor or draped over furniture. They’re also incredibly versatile—you can use them for:
- Coats, jackets, and scarves
- Bags and backpacks
- Dog leashes and umbrellas
- Hats and seasonal accessories
Pegboards offer even more flexibility since you can rearrange the hooks as needed. I installed a small pegboard by my door and painted it the same color as my wall for a seamless look. Now, instead of frantically searching for my keys every morning, they have a designated spot that’s always visible.
View on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
View on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Pro Tip: Install hooks at different heights to accommodate both adults and children, or to layer items without them overlapping too much. I learned this after my coat kept completely covering my dog’s leash!
4. Step Up Your Game: Shoe Storage Solutions
Shoes are often the biggest culprit in entryway clutter. After trying several solutions, I’ve found that the best approach depends on your specific space constraints and the number of shoes you need to store.
For extremely narrow entryways, consider a vertical shoe rack that stands tall rather than wide. I use a 4-tier rack that holds 12 pairs of shoes while taking up just 12 inches of floor space against the wall.
If you have a bit more room, a storage bench with shoe cubbies underneath combines seating with organization. For a more budget-friendly option, try stackable shoe organizers that can be configured to fit your space.
For renters or anyone who doesn’t want to drill into walls, a slim narrow shoe rack can tuck neatly into a corner and instantly tame piles of shoes by the door.
View on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
View on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Pro Tip: Keep only seasonal shoes in your entryway storage. I used to cram all my footwear by the door until I realized I was wasting prime real estate on sandals in winter and boots in summer. Now I rotate my collection seasonally, keeping off-season shoes in my bedroom closet.
5. Basket Case: Stylish Baskets and Bins
Baskets and bins add warmth and texture while hiding visual clutter—a win-win for small entryways. I’ve tried many storage containers over the years, and natural materials like seagrass, rattan, and canvas have proven most versatile for entryway use.
Place a few coordinating baskets on your shelves or under a console table to store:
- Winter accessories (gloves, scarves, hats)
- Reusable shopping bags
- Kids’ outdoor toys
- Sunscreen and bug spray in summer
- Mail and papers waiting to be processed
I prefer baskets with labels for items I don’t use daily, so I don’t have to remember what I stored where. For frequently used items, open-top baskets provide easy access while still maintaining a tidy appearance. If you want a cohesive look, consider a set of matching seagrass storage baskets that can move between your entryway and living room as needed.
Pro Tip: Choose baskets with washable liners if you’ll be storing dirty items like shoes or pet accessories. This has saved my baskets from getting permanently soiled when my dog came in with muddy paws!
6. Compact and Chic: Coat Racks for Tight Spaces
Traditional coat racks can overwhelm small entryways, but there are plenty of compact alternatives that provide hanging space without dominating the area. After my bulky floor coat rack constantly tipped over from too many heavy coats, I switched to wall-mounted options and never looked back.
Wall-mounted coat racks with folding hooks are particularly clever for narrow spaces—the hooks can be folded flat when not in use. Another space-saving option is an over-the-door rack, which utilizes often-overlooked space on the back of your door.
For a minimal look that still provides function, try a single wall-mounted rail with sliding hooks that can be positioned exactly where you need them. This type of entryway storage solution has been a game-changer in my current apartment.
Pro Tip: Install your coat rack at least 5 feet from the floor to ensure longer coats won’t drag on the ground. I made this mistake initially and had to rehang my entire rack!
7. Slim and Sleek: Narrow Console Tables
A slim console table can provide both surface space and storage without protruding too far into your walkway. I searched for months to find the perfect narrow console (under 10 inches deep) for my tiny entryway, and it’s now one of my favorite pieces of furniture.
Look for console tables with additional storage features like:
- Small drawers for keys, sunglasses, and other essentials
- A lower shelf for shoes or baskets
- Built-in hooks underneath
- Hidden compartments for valuables
The surface of your console provides a landing spot for mail, your phone, or a small dish for keys, while the area underneath can accommodate baskets, shoes, or even a pet bed if you’re really maximizing your space (as I did).
Pro Tip: Choose a console table with a finish that’s easy to clean—entryways see a lot of traffic and collect dust quickly. I opted for a painted finish rather than raw wood, which has been much easier to maintain.
8. Clever and Concealed: Hidden Storage Options
Sometimes the best storage solutions are the ones you don’t see. Hidden storage keeps your entryway looking clean and minimalist while still providing the functionality you need.
Some of my favorite hidden entryway storage ideas include:
- Hollow ottomans that open for storage
- Mirror cabinets that swing open to reveal hooks and shelves
- Stair treads that lift up (if your entryway has stairs)
- Wall panels that flip down to reveal shallow storage
- Furniture with secret compartments
I recently installed a mirror with a hidden cabinet behind it in my entryway. It’s perfect for storing sunglasses and accessories I grab on my way out, and guests never know it’s there!
Pro Tip: When incorporating hidden storage, make sure the mechanisms are high-quality and easy to operate. I initially chose a budget option with a sticky hinge that became frustrating to use daily.
Conclusion
Creating effective storage in a small entryway doesn’t require a major renovation or expensive custom solutions. By thinking creatively about the space you have—looking up to walls, choosing multi-functional pieces, and embracing organization systems—you can transform even the tiniest entryway into a functional, welcoming space.
I’ve implemented all of these ideas at different times in different homes, and the key is to assess your specific needs and space constraints before deciding which solutions will work best for you. Start with one or two ideas that address your biggest pain points, then build from there.
Remember that your entryway sets the tone for your entire home—when it’s organized and functional, you’ll start and end each day with a little less stress and a lot more style.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some DIY entryway storage ideas for small spaces?
DIY options include repurposing wooden crates as wall shelves, creating your own pegboard organization system, or transforming an old dresser into a narrow console table by removing some of the depth. One of my favorite DIY projects was converting an old ladder into a leaning rack for bags and scarves—it cost almost nothing but looks intentional and stylish.
How can I make my small entryway look bigger while adding storage?
Use light colors, add a mirror to create the illusion of more space, choose furniture with legs to show more floor, and opt for wall-mounted storage rather than floor units. I found that painting my entryway the same color as my living room (rather than creating a separate “zone”) made the entire front of my apartment feel more spacious.
What type of storage is best for a very narrow entryway or hallway?
Focus on vertical storage solutions like tall, narrow shoe racks, wall-mounted hooks and shelves, and over-the-door organizers. Avoid anything that protrudes more than 10 inches from the wall. In my narrowest apartment hallway (just 36 inches wide), I relied exclusively on wall storage and kept the floor completely clear.
How do I choose entryway storage that matches my home’s style?
Look for storage pieces that use materials and finishes already present in your home. For modern spaces, choose clean lines and minimal hardware; for more traditional homes, look for pieces with classic details. The entryway should be a preview of your home’s overall aesthetic, not a utilitarian afterthought.
Can I incorporate seating into my entryway storage if space is very limited?
Yes! Look for narrow storage benches (some are as slim as 12 inches deep), wall-mounted flip-down seats, or nesting stools that can be tucked under a console table when not in use. I’ve even used a single sturdy wall-mounted shelf at seating height with baskets underneath—it serves as both a bench and storage.
