Before and After: An Empty Entryway Gets a Functional Facelift Thanks to an IKEA Classic
This unassuming patch of hallway was the first thing this family saw when they walked in their home, and not only was it less attractive than they liked, it wasn’t as practical as it needed to be. Over three weekends, this space was transformed from Massive Shoe Pile to Fabulous Entryway.
Before we ooh and aah over the the entryway now, so let’s see how Ten Vini of Delish & Decor describes her hallway as it was before:
“We have a narrow and small hallway at the back of the house that connects to the garage door, a laundry room, basement, and a half bath. It’s a very busy area. We don’t use the actual front door. We use the garage door to come in and out most of the days. So putting shoes in this space make sense for us. The ‘before was just a empty dead space with shoe trays. “
“Every time I walk this hallway to do the laundry or use the bathroom, the hallway feels busy and claustrophobic. It’s also the first place that I step into the house after work, so I wanted to make the area feel inviting and attractive.”
And now for the inviting and attractive reveal . . .
How lovely! We’ve seen the use of shallow storage in narrow hallways, and it’s genius. IKEA’s STÄLL shoe cabinets can easily hold cold weather accessories (hats, gloves, scarves), summer ephemera (sunscreen, hats, bug spray), bags, and of course, shoes. The mirror adds space and light to the narrow hallway, the accessories hooks are very clever, and the wall decor is an excellent reminder that a workhorse spot in the home can also be beautiful.
How does Ten feel about it now? “I love how I step inside the house and it feels relaxing. I can hang my coat and take my shoes and put it away easily.” Mastering such a busy, high-traffic, multi-purpose spot is no small feat—this makeover is impressive!
Ten graciously disclosed the cost—in time and dollars—that this re-do cost: “I think it took us about 3 weeks (we only work on the house over the weekends). We spent about $450 dollars.” I can’t believe such a dramatic change was made for less than $500!
Ten also shared this excellent piece of remodeling/shopping advice: “Before buying (in-store or online) big items such as sofa, bookcase, table, etc., always measure the space where the item would go. I often use a painters tape mark to outline the size of the item. It helps make sure that I will get the items that will fit the space how I want to and not worry about returning it.”
Thank you Ten! Be sure to check out the full renovation—including sourcing information—over at Delish & Decor!
This post originally published on Apartment Therapy. Read it there: Before and After: An Empty Dead Entryway Gets a Functional Facelift