Level Up Your Entryway

They say you only get one chance to make a first impression—and that’s especially true when it comes to your home. Our friend Jim Gallagher of Garden Court Antiques has some thoughts on making the most of the first space many will see.

The moment someone walks through your front door, they begin to understand how you live and what matters to you. That impression doesn’t need to be grand or overly styled—unless that reflects who you are—but it should feel thoughtful and intentional.

This is a conversation I often have with interior designers. Many clients rarely use their own front door in daily life, so they overlook the entryway when decorating or budgeting. But that’s a missed opportunity. If you’re investing time and money into creating a home that feels welcoming and expressive, the entryway is your opening statement.

A cluttered pile of shoes or an overflowing hall tree might not be the message you want to send. Likewise, placing a piece of furniture there just because “it fits” or “it’s where I drop my keys” can sell the space short. The entryway sets the tone for the rest of your home—it speaks volumes.

In older homes like San Francisco Victorians, entryways are often narrow, leading to long hallways. Consider using mirrors to create the illusion of expanding the space and make it feel more welcoming. Avoid introducing large, bulky pieces of furniture that can create visual blockages. Key pieces of art spaced in a lengthy hall can break up the monotony and provide scale.

Creating a welcoming entrance doesn’t require a big budget or elaborate styling. It could be a meaningful artwork, a family heirloom, or framed photos of loved ones. Whatever you choose, let it reflect who you are. That space deserves some thought, because it is your guests’ introduction to who you are.