8 Exceptional New Front Entryways
Pros share the key details they used in these stylish foyers and their must-have elements for creating a welcoming space
Side-entrance mudrooms get a lot of attention these days. But a home’s main front entry shouldn’t be overlooked. After all, this is typically the first and last impression a guest has of a home. To make an indelible impact, design and construction pros focus on creating eye-catching surfaces and adding streamlined furnishings that perform a needed function without crowding the space. Here, pros share the special features they used in eight front entryways, as well as the elements they think every front entry should have.
2. Warm and Serene With a Lakeside Vibe
Remodeler: Sven Gustafson of Revision
Location: Orono, Minnesota
Size: 84 square feet (7.8 square meters); 6 by 14 feet
Homeowners’ request. “The homeowners envisioned a warm and welcoming entryway that would immediately reflect the serenity and style of their lakeside home,” builder and remodeler Sven Gustafson says. “The original space lacked character and felt disconnected from the natural beauty just beyond the door. They wanted the new entry to feel like an embrace, grounded in craftsmanship, inviting in tone and effortlessly functional for daily life on the lake.”
Special features. “The space showcases a rich custom-stained alder wood front door with arched detailing and framed by divided-light sidelights and transoms that flood the space with natural light,” Gustafson says. “Wide-plank white oak flooring sets a warm foundation, paired with crisp white millwork and a soft gray wall color (Benjamin Moore’s Gray Owl) that adds calm contrast. A hand-woven console in a natural fiber finish introduces texture, while large ceramic lamps with abstract carvings anchor the space with sculptural weight. Nautical nods, such as the porthole-style mirror and knotted-rope artwork, subtly reinforce the home’s lakeside setting.”
Front entry must-have. “Every front entry should tell a story, whether through an heirloom piece, textured console or statement lighting,” Gustafson says. “It’s the first impression and the emotional cue for what’s to come inside the home. A layered mix of natural materials helps make that moment memorable and grounded.”
“Uh-oh” moment. “Installing the oversized front door system with its precise millwork and transoms proved challenging in a remodel setting with existing structural constraints,” Gustafson says. “Aligning everything perfectly while preserving the integrity of the original framing required expert carpentry and plenty of patience. But once in place, it instantly elevated the space and justified every detail.”
Gustafson and his company Revision use Houzz Pro software. “We used Houzz to help the client visualize the transformation of key areas, including the front entry,” Gustafson says. “The homeowner appreciated the real-time feedback tools and product tagging for sourcing.” His clients also found him on Houzz. “Our profile helped them discover our portfolio and connect with us initially,” Gustafson says.
Remodeler: Sven Gustafson of Revision
Location: Orono, Minnesota
Size: 84 square feet (7.8 square meters); 6 by 14 feet
Homeowners’ request. “The homeowners envisioned a warm and welcoming entryway that would immediately reflect the serenity and style of their lakeside home,” builder and remodeler Sven Gustafson says. “The original space lacked character and felt disconnected from the natural beauty just beyond the door. They wanted the new entry to feel like an embrace, grounded in craftsmanship, inviting in tone and effortlessly functional for daily life on the lake.”
Special features. “The space showcases a rich custom-stained alder wood front door with arched detailing and framed by divided-light sidelights and transoms that flood the space with natural light,” Gustafson says. “Wide-plank white oak flooring sets a warm foundation, paired with crisp white millwork and a soft gray wall color (Benjamin Moore’s Gray Owl) that adds calm contrast. A hand-woven console in a natural fiber finish introduces texture, while large ceramic lamps with abstract carvings anchor the space with sculptural weight. Nautical nods, such as the porthole-style mirror and knotted-rope artwork, subtly reinforce the home’s lakeside setting.”
Front entry must-have. “Every front entry should tell a story, whether through an heirloom piece, textured console or statement lighting,” Gustafson says. “It’s the first impression and the emotional cue for what’s to come inside the home. A layered mix of natural materials helps make that moment memorable and grounded.”
“Uh-oh” moment. “Installing the oversized front door system with its precise millwork and transoms proved challenging in a remodel setting with existing structural constraints,” Gustafson says. “Aligning everything perfectly while preserving the integrity of the original framing required expert carpentry and plenty of patience. But once in place, it instantly elevated the space and justified every detail.”
Gustafson and his company Revision use Houzz Pro software. “We used Houzz to help the client visualize the transformation of key areas, including the front entry,” Gustafson says. “The homeowner appreciated the real-time feedback tools and product tagging for sourcing.” His clients also found him on Houzz. “Our profile helped them discover our portfolio and connect with us initially,” Gustafson says.
3. Mountain Modern and Ready to Party
Designer: Emily LaMarque Design Studio
Location: Suncadia resort, Cle Elum, Washington
Size: 78 square feet (7.3 square meters); 6½ by 12 feet
Homeowners’ request. “This new-construction home for clients that live in Seattle is actually a weekend getaway in the mountains just outside the city,” designer Emily LaMarque says. “The homeowners wanted a family- and pet-friendly home that could accommodate guests for an impromptu party or an overnight stay at a moment’s notice. Many of the details of the home are clean-lined and modern, so they wanted the furnishings and decor to have a bit of a rustic, earthy feel to them to reference the home’s relaxed setting, while still being upscale.”
Special features. “The homeowners wanted a durable rug to welcome guests in sun, rain or snowy weather,” LaMarque says. “Ottomans provide a place for visitors to sit and easily remove or replace shoes. Natural elements like the terra-cotta vase, the woven basket and the gnarled grapewood branch reference the rustic mountain location.The custom green mossy artwork brings the outdoor forest inside, connecting the home to the nature that surrounds it. Other special features include shiplap on the wall that adds modern visual interest to the space, warm natural woods on the handrail for the staircase and the floor, and large glass-and-steel doors that let in the light and views of the surrounding forest.”
LaMarque uses Houzz Pro software. “I use it for client information, to track project notes, proposals, purchase orders and invoicing, and time and expense management,” she says.
Front entry must-have. “I believe every entry should have a great piece of artwork that sets the stage for the aesthetic of the home,” LaMarque says. “I also think a beautiful catchall is great for every entry, where people can set keys, phones and the sort so they are accessible and easy to find every time you leave.”
“Uh-oh” moment. “In the entryway, the ceiling height is over 20 feet tall,” LaMarque says. “We specified a massive wrought-iron chandelier to hang above the entry, and you see it from the open loft at the top of the stairs. We knew it was a focal point, and the client was in love with the light. What we didn’t realize was the amount of scaffolding that needed to be installed to hold up three to four guys over a couple of days to precariously install the chandelier.”
Paint: Pure White, Benjamin Moore
Key Entryway Dimensions for Homes Large and Small
Designer: Emily LaMarque Design Studio
Location: Suncadia resort, Cle Elum, Washington
Size: 78 square feet (7.3 square meters); 6½ by 12 feet
Homeowners’ request. “This new-construction home for clients that live in Seattle is actually a weekend getaway in the mountains just outside the city,” designer Emily LaMarque says. “The homeowners wanted a family- and pet-friendly home that could accommodate guests for an impromptu party or an overnight stay at a moment’s notice. Many of the details of the home are clean-lined and modern, so they wanted the furnishings and decor to have a bit of a rustic, earthy feel to them to reference the home’s relaxed setting, while still being upscale.”
Special features. “The homeowners wanted a durable rug to welcome guests in sun, rain or snowy weather,” LaMarque says. “Ottomans provide a place for visitors to sit and easily remove or replace shoes. Natural elements like the terra-cotta vase, the woven basket and the gnarled grapewood branch reference the rustic mountain location.The custom green mossy artwork brings the outdoor forest inside, connecting the home to the nature that surrounds it. Other special features include shiplap on the wall that adds modern visual interest to the space, warm natural woods on the handrail for the staircase and the floor, and large glass-and-steel doors that let in the light and views of the surrounding forest.”
LaMarque uses Houzz Pro software. “I use it for client information, to track project notes, proposals, purchase orders and invoicing, and time and expense management,” she says.
Front entry must-have. “I believe every entry should have a great piece of artwork that sets the stage for the aesthetic of the home,” LaMarque says. “I also think a beautiful catchall is great for every entry, where people can set keys, phones and the sort so they are accessible and easy to find every time you leave.”
“Uh-oh” moment. “In the entryway, the ceiling height is over 20 feet tall,” LaMarque says. “We specified a massive wrought-iron chandelier to hang above the entry, and you see it from the open loft at the top of the stairs. We knew it was a focal point, and the client was in love with the light. What we didn’t realize was the amount of scaffolding that needed to be installed to hold up three to four guys over a couple of days to precariously install the chandelier.”
Paint: Pure White, Benjamin Moore
Key Entryway Dimensions for Homes Large and Small
4. Grand and Gracious With Lots of Light
Designer: Kristen Ekeland
General contractor: Risher Martin
Location: West Lake Hills, Texas
Size: 125 square feet (12 square meters); 10 by 12½ feet
Homeowners’ request. “The massive rustic wood front door entered right into the living space with little room for a proper foyer,” says designer Kristen Ekeland, whose clients found her on Houzz more than a decade ago when they hired her for a Chicago condo project. “To capitalize on square footage — and sunlight — we converted the large exterior covered entrance into an interior space, removed the heavy wood front door and had a custom steel-and-glass front door added to the opening of the entrance. The new gracious foyer was the perfect spot to welcome guests and display two new art pieces.”
Special features. “The bespoke high-gloss lacquered console introduces a delicate pop of color, contrasting with the natural oak floor and ceiling finish,” Ekeland says. “A Stephen White sculptural pendant suspended above took over a year to complete. The artwork over the console was a custom commission with Spanish artist Carla Cascales Alimbau.”
Front entry must-have. “A wow factor,” Ekeland says. “No matter if your foyer is petite or grand, it’s the first impression of your home and deserves to be a great first impression. A piece of art, beautiful sconce or ceiling light, sculptural bench or chair or patterned rug are all ways to make it a moment that inspires.”
Project photos: Mike Schwartz Photo; wall paint: Chantilly Lace, Benjamin Moore
4 Designer Tips for a Fashionable Entry
Designer: Kristen Ekeland
General contractor: Risher Martin
Location: West Lake Hills, Texas
Size: 125 square feet (12 square meters); 10 by 12½ feet
Homeowners’ request. “The massive rustic wood front door entered right into the living space with little room for a proper foyer,” says designer Kristen Ekeland, whose clients found her on Houzz more than a decade ago when they hired her for a Chicago condo project. “To capitalize on square footage — and sunlight — we converted the large exterior covered entrance into an interior space, removed the heavy wood front door and had a custom steel-and-glass front door added to the opening of the entrance. The new gracious foyer was the perfect spot to welcome guests and display two new art pieces.”
Special features. “The bespoke high-gloss lacquered console introduces a delicate pop of color, contrasting with the natural oak floor and ceiling finish,” Ekeland says. “A Stephen White sculptural pendant suspended above took over a year to complete. The artwork over the console was a custom commission with Spanish artist Carla Cascales Alimbau.”
Front entry must-have. “A wow factor,” Ekeland says. “No matter if your foyer is petite or grand, it’s the first impression of your home and deserves to be a great first impression. A piece of art, beautiful sconce or ceiling light, sculptural bench or chair or patterned rug are all ways to make it a moment that inspires.”
Project photos: Mike Schwartz Photo; wall paint: Chantilly Lace, Benjamin Moore
4 Designer Tips for a Fashionable Entry
5. Sleek and Rich With an Upbeat Palette
Designer: Christina Smith of The Summer House Design Group
Location: Philadelphia
Size: 200 square feet (19 square meters)
Homeowners’ request. “The homeowners’ original urban dwelling was formal, with heavy molding and an overall traditional decor,” designer Christina Smith says. “This new interior was to reflect a sleek, integrated design that didn’t overshadow their panoramic views of the city. A rich use of colors was implemented from floor to ceiling to give it enough interest but not distract from the adjacent living room. The owners wanted an upbeat, vivid palette, in contrast to the formal beige of their previous residence.”
Special features. Navy animal print rug. Bench with sculpted faux bois base in antique gilt. Demilune chest in a custom finish. Neutral textured wallcovering. Hexagonal wood-look wallpapered ceiling.
Front entry must-have. “An inviting seating component,” Smith says.
Demilune chest: Old Biscayne
Shop for entryway products
Designer: Christina Smith of The Summer House Design Group
Location: Philadelphia
Size: 200 square feet (19 square meters)
Homeowners’ request. “The homeowners’ original urban dwelling was formal, with heavy molding and an overall traditional decor,” designer Christina Smith says. “This new interior was to reflect a sleek, integrated design that didn’t overshadow their panoramic views of the city. A rich use of colors was implemented from floor to ceiling to give it enough interest but not distract from the adjacent living room. The owners wanted an upbeat, vivid palette, in contrast to the formal beige of their previous residence.”
Special features. Navy animal print rug. Bench with sculpted faux bois base in antique gilt. Demilune chest in a custom finish. Neutral textured wallcovering. Hexagonal wood-look wallpapered ceiling.
Front entry must-have. “An inviting seating component,” Smith says.
Demilune chest: Old Biscayne
Shop for entryway products
6. Tidy With Passive House Principles
Designers: Lindsay Schack and Kluane Gorsuch of Love Schack Architecture
Location: Alta, Wyoming
Size: 132 square feet (12.3 square meters); 11 by 12 feet
Homeowners’ request. “This multistory home needed an entry that would welcome occupants and visitors and provide a transition space before ascending the stairs to the main living area,” architect Lindsay Schack says. “The homeowners wanted the space to have natural light and access to the sweeping views outside. But the space also needed protection from the wind, snow and intense sun that the homesite experiences.”
Special features. “The home is designed with Passive House principles to require a minimum of on-demand energy while maintaining thermal comfort and constant fresh air on the inside,” Schack says. “This meant that the entry door needed to meet specific requirements and be robust enough to withstand the elements. The space itself provides storage for guests’ shoes and coats but is minimal in these features, as the owners requested a large mud-gear-ski room down the hall that is accessed from the garage. This balance allowed the entry space to remain open and uncluttered while providing ample space for hugs and greetings before ascending to the main living areas.”
Front entry must-have. “Every front entry space should support transition: moving from one activity to another,” Schack says. “Having space to organize high-touch items that are used frequently can save you time and reduce the stress of rushing out the door or ease back home after a long day. As an architect, I really enjoy developing solutions for clients that are unique to their needs and use patterns, giving them a moment of pause to change shoes, reflect in the mirror, pick up their pet’s favorite leash or put aside wet boots to dry.”
“Uh-oh” moment. “The homeowners’ site is sloping to the south and west, with the drive access also coming from that direction, and this required that the entry be located on the lowest level,” Schack says. “The homeowners were concerned that the entry would become an afterthought, or a space that one would rush through to gain access to the stunning views upstairs, or even perhaps [that] having a lower entry point would make the experience of entry feel cumbersome. However, once we developed the entry wall’s design with an oversize door that moved easily and sidelights that let in peeks of the view and natural lighting, the owners now see the space as a true welcome home.”
Designers: Lindsay Schack and Kluane Gorsuch of Love Schack Architecture
Location: Alta, Wyoming
Size: 132 square feet (12.3 square meters); 11 by 12 feet
Homeowners’ request. “This multistory home needed an entry that would welcome occupants and visitors and provide a transition space before ascending the stairs to the main living area,” architect Lindsay Schack says. “The homeowners wanted the space to have natural light and access to the sweeping views outside. But the space also needed protection from the wind, snow and intense sun that the homesite experiences.”
Special features. “The home is designed with Passive House principles to require a minimum of on-demand energy while maintaining thermal comfort and constant fresh air on the inside,” Schack says. “This meant that the entry door needed to meet specific requirements and be robust enough to withstand the elements. The space itself provides storage for guests’ shoes and coats but is minimal in these features, as the owners requested a large mud-gear-ski room down the hall that is accessed from the garage. This balance allowed the entry space to remain open and uncluttered while providing ample space for hugs and greetings before ascending to the main living areas.”
Front entry must-have. “Every front entry space should support transition: moving from one activity to another,” Schack says. “Having space to organize high-touch items that are used frequently can save you time and reduce the stress of rushing out the door or ease back home after a long day. As an architect, I really enjoy developing solutions for clients that are unique to their needs and use patterns, giving them a moment of pause to change shoes, reflect in the mirror, pick up their pet’s favorite leash or put aside wet boots to dry.”
“Uh-oh” moment. “The homeowners’ site is sloping to the south and west, with the drive access also coming from that direction, and this required that the entry be located on the lowest level,” Schack says. “The homeowners were concerned that the entry would become an afterthought, or a space that one would rush through to gain access to the stunning views upstairs, or even perhaps [that] having a lower entry point would make the experience of entry feel cumbersome. However, once we developed the entry wall’s design with an oversize door that moved easily and sidelights that let in peeks of the view and natural lighting, the owners now see the space as a true welcome home.”
7. Fresh Vintage Style With Sophistication
Designer: Marcy Duque of IDF Studio
Location: San Francisco
Size: 42 square feet (3.9 square meters)
Homeowners’ request. “The home was new to our clients, and they wanted to transform it from a blank white canvas to one with color and that felt sophisticated, vintage-inspired but also refreshed,” designer Marcy Duque says. “The entry is right off the elevator, and the elevator has vintage accordion doors, so we wanted to make a statement as soon as guests arrived.”
Special features. “Marble tile floors transformed the space from dark and functional to bright and sophisticated,” Duque says. “The ceiling fixture is Kelly Wearstler. Paint is Dunn-Edwards’ Dark Shadows in high gloss. House of Hackney wallpaper (Opia in bronze). We also added brass details to the peephole and doorbell, making every part of the room feel special.”
Front entry must-have. “A statement!” Duque says. “It’s the first and last impression and, generally, a smaller space that’s easy to make a big impact. I encourage clients to go bold, balancing statement pieces with livable functionality — a place to set your keys, kick off your shoes and a way to make it feel effortlessly chic.”
New to home remodeling? Learn the basics
Designer: Marcy Duque of IDF Studio
Location: San Francisco
Size: 42 square feet (3.9 square meters)
Homeowners’ request. “The home was new to our clients, and they wanted to transform it from a blank white canvas to one with color and that felt sophisticated, vintage-inspired but also refreshed,” designer Marcy Duque says. “The entry is right off the elevator, and the elevator has vintage accordion doors, so we wanted to make a statement as soon as guests arrived.”
Special features. “Marble tile floors transformed the space from dark and functional to bright and sophisticated,” Duque says. “The ceiling fixture is Kelly Wearstler. Paint is Dunn-Edwards’ Dark Shadows in high gloss. House of Hackney wallpaper (Opia in bronze). We also added brass details to the peephole and doorbell, making every part of the room feel special.”
Front entry must-have. “A statement!” Duque says. “It’s the first and last impression and, generally, a smaller space that’s easy to make a big impact. I encourage clients to go bold, balancing statement pieces with livable functionality — a place to set your keys, kick off your shoes and a way to make it feel effortlessly chic.”
New to home remodeling? Learn the basics
8. Bespoke Details With Touches of Glamour
Designer: Michele Bitter Designs
Architect: Martin Brandwein
General contractor: A. Tobin Interiors
Location: New York
Size: 100 square feet (9.3 square meters); 10 by 10 feet
Homeowners’ request. “The client wanted a bespoke home,” designer Michele Bitter says. “The entire duplex apartment was renovated and updated to create a glamorous and unique space. Every piece of furniture throughout the home is bespoke or vintage. Every light fixture is entirely unique.”
Special features. “We updated the outdated foyer and entry with fabulous new wallpaper from Armani Casa and a new staircase with brass spindles,” Bitter says. She also replaced a former bar area under the stairs with closed storage.
Front entry must-have. “Every entrance needs a console to place your keys, mail, your purse, etc. and a little place to sit to remove your shoes,” Bitter says. “Here we have a gorgeous console by R&Y Augousti and a small little pouf.”
“Uh-oh” moment. “When we started the construction process, the walls were paneled in fabric,” Bitter says. “After we removed it, we discovered lots of moths. That had to be remedied. Also, all the electrical work was old and cloth-wrapped, so the entire home had to be rewired and brought to code.”
More on Houzz
Read more entryway stories
Browse more entryway photos
Find a home professional
Shop for entryway products
Designer: Michele Bitter Designs
Architect: Martin Brandwein
General contractor: A. Tobin Interiors
Location: New York
Size: 100 square feet (9.3 square meters); 10 by 10 feet
Homeowners’ request. “The client wanted a bespoke home,” designer Michele Bitter says. “The entire duplex apartment was renovated and updated to create a glamorous and unique space. Every piece of furniture throughout the home is bespoke or vintage. Every light fixture is entirely unique.”
Special features. “We updated the outdated foyer and entry with fabulous new wallpaper from Armani Casa and a new staircase with brass spindles,” Bitter says. She also replaced a former bar area under the stairs with closed storage.
Front entry must-have. “Every entrance needs a console to place your keys, mail, your purse, etc. and a little place to sit to remove your shoes,” Bitter says. “Here we have a gorgeous console by R&Y Augousti and a small little pouf.”
“Uh-oh” moment. “When we started the construction process, the walls were paneled in fabric,” Bitter says. “After we removed it, we discovered lots of moths. That had to be remedied. Also, all the electrical work was old and cloth-wrapped, so the entire home had to be rewired and brought to code.”
More on Houzz
Read more entryway stories
Browse more entryway photos
Find a home professional
Shop for entryway products
Sponsored
Designer: Amy Leferink of Interior Impressions
Location: Fort Myers, Florida
Size: 96 square feet (8.9 square meters); 8 by 12 feet
Homeowners’ request. “The homeowners envisioned a front entry that felt elevated, breezy and welcoming, capturing a laid-back coastal vibe with a tailored twist,” designer Amy Leferink says. “They wanted the space to reflect their Florida lifestyle while maintaining a clean, curated aesthetic. The previous entry lacked personality and purpose, so we focused on adding visual interest, functional storage and a polished first impression that aligned with the rest of the home.”
Special features. “Twelve-foot ceilings create a dramatic sense of openness, and textured wallpaper adds depth and softness,” Leferink says. “A warm wood console table with sleek lines has black baskets underneath for storing flip-flops and daily essentials. A timeless six-bulb chandelier anchors the space without overwhelming it. A piece of abstract art and a soft, light-toned rug ground the space. Black hardware adds a crisp, modern contrast, and classic green plants bring a natural, vibrant touch.”
Leferink uses Houzz Pro software to manage her business, including for 3D Floor Plans, Mood Boards and “invoice tracking to communicate with clients more clearly during the design process,” she says.
Front entry must-have. “Every front entry needs some form of closed or contained storage, especially in casual climates like Florida,” Leferink says. “Whether it’s a bench with drawers or baskets beneath a console, giving items like flip-flops, sunscreen and sunglasses a home keeps things tidy without sacrificing style.”
“Uh-oh” moment. “We had originally specified a wallpaper that ended up being backordered indefinitely, just days before it was scheduled for install,” Leferink says. “After a few quick design pivots and sourcing alternatives, we landed on a textured paper that actually suited the space even better. Proof that even design detours can lead to great outcomes.”
Paint: Snowbound, Sherwin-Williams
See why you should hire a professional who uses Houzz Pro software