5 Outdated Entryway Trends That Undermine Your Home’s First Impression
The entryway is more than just a pass-through—it’s the handshake of your home. Guests notice it instantly, and you experience it multiple times a day. If the space feels cluttered, dated, or uninspired, the effect carries through the rest of the house.
By contrast, a thoughtful foyer feels intentional and welcoming. Light, balance, and timeless details all help create that sense of arrival. To get there, it’s worth letting go of a few once-popular trends that now make entryways look tired. Here’s what designers say to skip—and what to use instead.
1. Bulky Cubby Benches
These benches once promised organization, but in reality they often pile up with shoes, bags, and visual clutter. Rather than projecting calm, they leave the space looking chaotic and cramped.
Try this instead: Choose a streamlined console table that takes up at least two-thirds of the wall. Style it with a lamp, art, or a bowl for keys. Keep coats and shoes tucked neatly in a closet or on a slim coat rack nearby.
2. Faux Plants and Word Art
Plastic greenery and scripted signs that say “Home” or “Family” once seemed inviting, but now they come across as impersonal and generic. Fake stems collect dust, and slogan art rarely creates the layered character that makes a space feel personal.
Try this instead: A vase of fresh-cut branches or seasonal clippings instantly adds movement and life. Pair with art that reflects your taste—a vintage print, a simple abstract, or even a framed sketch. Mixing pieces gives the space personality without overwhelming it.
3. Overly Ornate Lighting
Scroll-heavy chandeliers or frosted-glass fixtures were everywhere decades ago. Today, they tend to drag a space down, making an otherwise fresh entry feel outdated.
Try this instead: Opt for a pendant or lantern with clean lines and clear glass. Think of lighting as the jewelry of your foyer—when chosen well, it elevates everything else in the room.
4. Rugs That Are Too Small
A common mistake is dropping a tiny mat in the middle of the entry, assuming that a small space requires a small rug. The result feels awkward and unfinished. “Welcome” mats belong at the back door, not the heart of your home.
Try this instead: Select a runner or area rug that spans the width of the doorway and anchors the space. A rug with proper scale defines the entry, adds warmth, and signals arrival the moment you step inside.
5. Theme-Heavy Seasonal Décor
A pumpkin or two in autumn is festive, but covering every surface with seasonal props can make your foyer resemble a store display. Overdone holiday signage often feels more kitschy than cozy.
Try this instead: Add subtle, natural accents that echo the season without overwhelming the space. A ceramic bowl filled with pinecones, a casually draped throw, or candles in varied holders bring character while keeping the atmosphere calm and refined.
