I think you are on the right track with the light colour. Do you know what a hall tree is? You could get one in white. Put shoes in the "seat" part and hang coats/hats up top. I would also add a good sized white mirror to the wall behind the door and a light coloured rug.

How about something like the photo attached? Then a contrast paint on the wall behind the door. Maybe a warm yellow like Sherwin-Williams White Raisin.
[houzz=]

For the outside, I'd paint the cement or cover it with something (tile if you aren't going to have ice problems) I'd plant a hanging plant to let greenery hang down the side of the stairs.

Hi!! I have a couple ideas!
For outside: How about some long flowerboxes along the side of the upper ground (when weather is appropriate) and a couple pretty lanterns to go on one side of your steps, and a pretty welcome mat? :) The first three pics are from Pier 1.
Inside: If you need as much floor space as possible, here are a few ideas from Pottery Barn. Depending on your budget...I got a similar coat hook from Hobby Lobby for $20...of you love near one. Also, a wall bin of some sort for gloves, hats, ect. And a pretty rug :) Also, you could hang a fam pic on one of the unused walls :) Hope this helps some :)

Thank you for the comments! I really like all the ideas