i agree, a runner rug in the entry would work well.

Agree with both comments- you need to solve for noise, wear and tare and comfort. Runner solves all.

Area rugs for sure. I have a similar hall way (sorry no photos) I've used long narrow ones and rectangle different styles too.
I found some really nice good quality rugs at discount stores. Wool ones and I love them being different yet together.

Thanks all! The issue is that the space in front of the door isn't actually that long - only about 5ft, so it would have to be a small runner. I worry that it will cut off the room to have a rug on one end of the L and not the other - so maybe one small one in by the door and a larger one in the main part of the foyer?

I agree with all the comments. Area Rugs will warm up the space and hold noise down. What I find helpful is to take masking or blue tape and outline where you think the rugs should go. It helps you eye look at the space and how the rugs will fill it up. These type spaces are always hard to work with, Also try and keep the corners of the rugs out of doorways and high traffic as that can be an issue. You might find some remnants that could be bound into your sizes or order a carpet and have it cut and bound. It would make your foyer area look custom and tailored.