Update a Tired Entryway in 5 Easy Steps

The owners of my apartment building are the sweetest couple. They purchased the building in the 1960’s and have lived here ever since.

Although the neighborhood has changed over the years, their décor has not, and stepping into my building is like going back in time. The entryway is a good example. It has good bones, but everything is a little dull and dated.

Many of us face similar situations in our own homes. Maybe you are working with hand-me-downs, or you’ve had the same furniture for few decades years, and you just aren’t sure where to begin.

The good news is that you don’t have to start from scratch. It’s possible to update your space in a few easy steps.

1. Work with what you have. Consider existing pieces and decide what still works. In this case, the lamp has a great color and shape. I would replace the dated shade with fresh white one.
2. Add flexible seating. Every entryway needs a seat that can double as a resting place for a purse or grocery bag. A pair of Ballard Designs’ X-Benches can be tucked under the console when not in use and add much needed seating and color.
3. Work in color and pattern. The Fab Habitat Rug from Rugs USA adds interest to the space and draws your eye away from the dated carpet.
4. Get organized. A large, colorful tray adds instant style and corrals various odds and ends, and is the perfect catch-all for takeout menus, mail, and newspapers.
5. Add an unexpected element. This Garden Goddess Planter is kind of classic, kind of kooky, and definitely a step up from the existing wicker planter.

What is your favorite way to update a dated space?