How about a cushioned bench on the stair wall? Maybe with 1 or 2 matched baskets under it for storage depending on your needs. If not a cushioned bench then maybe a painted one just open underneath and people could leave shoes there. So many people take their shoes off in a house - though I personally don't care but there are always shoes at our front door. The rug pattern and bench color or cushion can coordinate. Depending on how wide the entry door swings open you may need a door stop in the floor to protect whatever furniture you place on the entry wall. Perhaps framed art work on the entry wall or a very slim table or cabinet You could consider something like a coat tree if you need someplace for guest coats...or maybe that could go in the vestibule.