13 Entryway Decor Mistakes to Avoid, Learn from Real-life Examples

In this blog post, I’m sharing real-life examples and breaking down common entryway decor mistakes, ones you might be making or could run into while planning your entryway styling.

But before we dive in, make sure you check out my other entryway posts to start off on the right foot. That way, you’ll have a full picture of what works and can finish strong by avoiding these common mistakes!

RELATED: How to Choose the Perfect Console Table for Your Entryway

1. Overlooking a Small Entryway

Small entryways can be tricky. It’s easy to focus on the limited space and feel like there’s not much you can do. But trust me, don’t overlook it! Just because it’s small doesn’t mean it can’t make a big impact.

Take this entryway, for example. I can already picture a compact console table with enough space to tuck in one or two ottomans. Add a few simple decor pieces like a mirror, layered art, a table lamp, a vase, and some coffee table books and you’ve got a stylish, welcoming space. Small but mighty!

2. Placing the Console Table at an Angle

Unless the wall is angled, placing a console table at an angle is a surefire way to make your entryway look outdated. It doesn’t add style and in fact, it can make the space look cheap. Instead, always go for a blank wall and place the console table straight against it.

In this case, since the longer wall is the first thing you see when walking in, I’d place the console table there and style it. To balance out the space, a mix of smaller and larger wall art frames on the other wall would complete the look.

3. Disconnected Decor

Hanging a focal point (like a mirror or artwork) too high above the console table or bench can make everything feel disconnected. Instead, bring it closer to create a more cohesive look and don’t forget to choose a console table that’s proportionate to the space.

If you’ve read my other post, I break down exactly how to measure your entryway to get the perfect setup and avoid costly design mistakes.

4. Area Rug Instead of a Runner Rug

Adding a rug to your entryway is a great way to create a ‘red carpet’ moment as you walk in and out of the house. Not to mention, it helps anchor the furniture. But an area rug is not the way to go!

What you need is a runner rug. It’s narrower than an area rug, just the right size to define the walkway without making it feel like a seating area. Plus, it keeps the space looking intentional and well-styled.

5. Focal Point Wider Than the Table

A common mistake in a lot of entryways is hanging a mirror or artwork that’s wider than the console table. It creates a top-heavy, V-shaped look that feels off-balance.

Instead, aim for an A-shaped setup where the console is the wider base and the focal point above is slightly narrower. This keeps everything looking visually balanced and proportionate, making your entryway feel more polished.

6. No Runner Rug

Not having a runner rug in an entryway, especially one as long as this, is a decor mistake you’ll want to avoid. As I mentioned before, a runner rug is the perfect piece to ground the space, anchor the furniture, and create a beautiful ‘red carpet’ moment as you walk in and out.

Since entryways are high-traffic areas, a runner rug will need more frequent upkeep. That’s why I highly recommend going for a washable runner rug, it’ll make your life so much easier!

7. Dated Console Table

A console table like this one feels pretty outdated, and the three-tiered shelf gives it more of a pantry vibe than an entryway statement piece. It’s just not the best choice for styling a beautiful vignette.

Furthermore, adding wire baskets only reinforces that pantry look, when an entryway deserves something with a little more aesthetic appeal.

8. Lack of Vignette

A vignette might sound like a fancy word, but it’s really just a way to showcase your personality by styling a collection of decor pieces that feel cohesive. And what better place to create one than the entryway, it’s the first thing guests see!

While this setup has a proportionate console table and a focal point with art, it’s missing key elements that complete a vignette. Think layered art, coffee table books, a picture frame, and a table lamp to add warmth and ambiance. These little details make all the difference in creating a stylish, welcoming entryway.

9. Dated Mirror Styles

Hanging a mirror that’s dated in style or too wide, giving it that salon-style look, is a decor mistake to avoid if you're going for a designer-style entryway.

If you love a bigger mirror, there are plenty of beautiful options that are both functional and timeless. Think of an arched mirror for elegance, a vintage mirror for character, or a butterfly mirror if you want something with an organic, irregular shape.

10. Console Table Resting on the Runner Rug

A big designer secret for a well-styled space is making sure the front two legs of furniture rest on the area rug. While this rule works beautifully in a living room, it doesn’t apply to an entryway.

A runner rug is a great choice, but if it’s too wide and your console table’s front legs (or the whole piece) end up sitting on it, the setup will look visually off-balance. Instead, opt for a runner that sits independently, creating a clean, intentional look alongside your console table or bench.

11. Short Focal Point

The focal point is key when styling an entryway. If you’re using a console table, it needs to be anchored by a focal piece that’s large enough to center the whole setup.

Avoid choosing a mirror or artwork that’s too small. If the table lamp and vase catch up to it in height, the whole arrangement will feel off. Instead, aim for a focal point that’s 1.5 to 2 times the height of the table and about 2/3 of its width. This proportionate balance is what makes (or breaks) a well-styled entryway.

12. Stems in All Vases

Layering decor is a designer-approved trick, and adding 2-3 vases to your console table is a great way to elevate the look. But here’s where you can go wrong—adding stems to all of them.

Instead, keep it simple. Adding stems to just the tallest vase creates a more refined, intentional look. It’s a small detail, but one that makes all the difference between an ordinary setup and a designer-style entryway.

13. Ignoring the Door Swing

If your entryway setup is too close to a door, it’s crucial to consider which way the door swings. If it opens inward near your setup, you’ll want to factor that in when choosing a console table!

In my post, How to Choose the Perfect Console Table for Your Entryway, I explain why you should maintain a distance of 1 to 3 feet between the door and the table. Keeping this in mind will help you avoid any awkward clashes between the door and your decor.

That’s a wrap! These were 13 common entryway decor mistakes to avoid if you’re aiming for a designer-style look. Keep these in mind, and your entryway will feel effortlessly stylish and well put together.

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