I'd find a runner that goes just past the stairs. See if you can find something more interesting than solid broadloom.

Well, you need a place to put the shoes once removed. . . but honestly, I don't like to remove my shoes when visiting others homes, so I don't make people remove their shoes when they come to my house. However I do insist they wipe their feet!

Haha! I don't require guests to take their shoes off but around here the majority do automatically. I'm not the type to post a sign or even ask...unless they're kids, in which case yes, they must remove their shoes, especially if they go upstairs.

I'm just trying to find out if I should do two large rugs or just one large one in the main entry and leave the stair area bare. And, is it better to have a small bench in the corner of the main entry or a larger one placed along the long wall across from the stairs? Or a long console table?

I would get a 4'x6' or 5'x7' and run it horizontally in front of door and then get a long co-ordinating runner to run lengthwise down the hall. How many feet would that be? I would probably end before the stub out past the stairway and you will want some space between the two rugs. I would definitely go with some pattern and color, for interest, as well as not showing footprints/soil, etc. A nice bench on wall in front of stairway would be nice. I really can't see the area the foyer encompasses.

edited-I just saw the first picture of the foyer. it doesn't look like there is any place to put anything there, unless I'm missing something.

Ditto what Lily'smom said. A not too big entry rug at the door to wipe the shoes when entering and leave the entire rest of that beautiful floor uncovered.

On first glance, I think a big rug for the first entry area that covers most of the floor. Then you can do something at the base of the stairs, like a console or bench. Nice space!

I have a long runner across the door and sidelights, it's the perfect thing. A small oval, upholstered stool, kind of like a vanity stool, is handy for a small corner.

In front of the closet and stairs I might not do a rug...it would wear out so quickly...but along the wall I'd do a long, shallow demilune table or shelf. Demilune to guide one gracefully through that hall without bruising hips!

Love your pooches!

A nice long bench across from coat closet and stairs with space beneath for a row of shoes. Two rugs. Unfortunately everyone that comes into my house that automatically takes off their shoes leaves them in the walkway!

Or you might consider a wall/bench/cubby/coat hook unit (sorry I don't know what their called). Maybe search for mudroom furniture. That would some space for backpacks etc.