Designer Tips Reader Q&A: Entryways 02/02/2018 Share Entryways come in all shapes and sizes which makes them a tough room to tackle, so we asked our readers to tell us what dilemmas they face concerning their entryways. Read on as we dive into 3 different questions and how to answer them. ENTRYWAY #1 QUESTION: “Help! What do I do about a curved entryway wall? This space has had me stumped for 3 years.” -Kylie ANSWER: Work with the shape of the room, not against it. Use round furniture to create a nice flow. A large, round table would be a great option to use here. The table would allow plenty of tabletop space for decor and be a drop zone for keys and mail when entering. When doing a round table in an entryway, place a tall focal point on the table. This focal point could be a sculpture, decor object or greenery. Layer around the focal point with decor of different heights and textures to create interest. Next, if there is a section of wall that is flat, utilize it with art. Another option to consider would be to incorporate a sitting area. Choose a rounded settee or bench to flow with the curved wall. Add a floor lamp for height and an end table to act as a drop zone. Table Vase Sculpture Dish Wall Art Settee Table Lamp Wall Art Pillow Pillow ENTRYWAY #2 QUESTION: "I want to put a bench and possibly hooks for guests. Is it okay to put a bench even though there is wainscoting?" -Cali ANSWER: Yes! The wainscoting is beautiful so we see your concern to cover it up, but since there is plenty of wainscoting to look at in this entryway, covering up a small portion of it is totally fine. As for hooks, don't let them be the focal point. Instead, incorporate hooks into the decor so that the space looks put together. Since your entryway is very long, take advantage of the length and use an extra-long bench. These hooks are also doubled up to stretch the length of the bench. The extra baskets will help hide loose items like gloves, toys, mail, etc. Bench Wall Hooks Quote Sign Frames Wide Basket Taller Basket ENTRYWAY #3 QUESTION: "Here is my dilemma...I like guests to take off their shoes when they enter my home because of all those icky germs on the bottoms of our shoes. However, I’ve had a challenge figuring out where to put seating so guests can sit and remove their shoes. Some of the challenges are: the entryway by the door is not very wide and a couple of benches I have tried just looked ridiculous in scale and style. What should I do?" -Erica ANSWER: Although this is a difficult task, the entryway by the door is going to be the best spot for a bench. It is a narrow space but it can be done with the right bench in the right style and size. The trick to getting the right bench is to choose one that complements the current style of the room. The room is grand and formal so the bench needs to be as well. The base of the first option below pairs well with the existing accent table and will extend only 17 inches from the wall. The second option plays into the stairs and front door. Bonus: this option only extends 15 inches from the wall. Either of these options would fit well in the room and look great! Option 1 Option 2 Do you have a question you would like answered about your entryway? Start a project with one of our designers to give your home the attention it deserves! This post may contain affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. All opinions and recommendations are our own.