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Your entrance is more than just a hallway. It’s your home’s first impression, your daily welcome, and the place where your style meets function. And yet, it’s often overlooked. It collects shoes, keys, bags and umbrellas, but rarely gets the design attention it deserves.
With a few clever pieces and some thoughtful styling, your entrance can be both beautiful and practical. Whether you’re working with a grand hallway or a narrow nook, here’s how to get it right.
- Start with a slimline console table
A console is your anchor. It frames the space, offers surface area for keys and post, and sets the visual tone as you walk in. Look for one that’s narrow enough to suit your hallway but long enough to give presence. Drawers or shelves are a bonus if you need hidden storage. - Add a statement mirror
Mirrors make small spaces feel bigger and brighter. They bounce light around and offer a handy final check before you walk out the door. Go circular for softness, arched for elegance, or oversized if you want drama. Frame choice is key. Go black for contrast, timber for warmth, or brass for something a little luxe. - Make room for seating
If space allows, a bench is a game changer. It gives you somewhere to sit while putting on shoes and can hide clutter underneath. Choose one with a padded top for comfort and baskets or cubbies below to keep things tidy. - Keep clutter contained
Trays, bowls and baskets are your best friends. A tray on the console keeps keys, sunnies and everyday bits from spreading out. A bowl adds a soft touch and can hold coins or jewellery. A basket on the floor can catch shoes, hats or reusable bags. - Don’t forget the styling touches
Add a lamp for soft lighting, a vase of fresh flowers or greenery to bring life to the space, and a piece of art or framed photo to make it feel personal. Even in the most practical part of the home, style matters. It sets the mood as soon as you step inside.Whether your entryway is wide, narrow or barely there, you can make it feel warm, welcoming and pulled together. With just a few smart pieces, your entrance becomes more than a pass-through. It becomes a moment.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on a podcast featuring insights from experienced professionals and is intended for general information and inspiration only. While we aim to share valuable guidance, please seek personalised advice from qualified professionals before making decisions about your property, finances, or renovation plans.
Curious to see more practical advice from industry experts? Visit our Top Tips hub for quick, valuable insights shared by people who’ve been there, helping you plan smarter and avoid common mistakes.
Our Mini Guide: Entrance and Hallway Design will show you how to bring together layout, lighting, flooring, storage, and styling into a space that feels intentional and easy to live with. Join MyTrends for access to this and a full library of guides to help you on your property journey.
Curious to see more practical advice from industry experts? Visit our Top Tips hub for quick, valuable insights shared by people who’ve been there, helping you plan smarter and avoid common mistakes.
Our Mini Guide: Entrance and Hallway Design will show you how to bring together layout, lighting, flooring, storage, and styling into a space that feels intentional and easy to live with. Join MyTrends for access to this and a full library of guides to help you on your property journey.
Episode Overview
In this episode of the Trends Property Insight Series, we sit down with Kim, owner and director of Asko Design, one of Christchurch’s most beloved furniture stores. With a legacy that spans over 30 years and roots deeply tied to her own family story, Kim shares a personal and powerful philosophy: that furniture should not only serve a functional purpose, but also become an enduring reflection of your lifestyle, values, and personality.
Your entrance is more than just a hallway. It’s your home’s first impression, your daily welcome, and the place where your style meets function. And yet, it’s often overlooked. It collects shoes, keys, bags and umbrellas, but rarely gets the design attention it deserves.
With a few clever pieces and some thoughtful styling, your entrance can be both beautiful and practical. Whether you’re working with a grand hallway or a narrow nook, here’s how to get it right.
- Start with a slimline console table
A console is your anchor. It frames the space, offers surface area for keys and post, and sets the visual tone as you walk in. Look for one that’s narrow enough to suit your hallway but long enough to give presence. Drawers or shelves are a bonus if you need hidden storage. - Add a statement mirror
Mirrors make small spaces feel bigger and brighter. They bounce light around and offer a handy final check before you walk out the door. Go circular for softness, arched for elegance, or oversized if you want drama. Frame choice is key. Go black for contrast, timber for warmth, or brass for something a little luxe. - Make room for seating
If space allows, a bench is a game changer. It gives you somewhere to sit while putting on shoes and can hide clutter underneath. Choose one with a padded top for comfort and baskets or cubbies below to keep things tidy. - Keep clutter contained
Trays, bowls and baskets are your best friends. A tray on the console keeps keys, sunnies and everyday bits from spreading out. A bowl adds a soft touch and can hold coins or jewellery. A basket on the floor can catch shoes, hats or reusable bags. - Don’t forget the styling touches
Add a lamp for soft lighting, a vase of fresh flowers or greenery to bring life to the space, and a piece of art or framed photo to make it feel personal. Even in the most practical part of the home, style matters. It sets the mood as soon as you step inside.Whether your entryway is wide, narrow or barely there, you can make it feel warm, welcoming and pulled together. With just a few smart pieces, your entrance becomes more than a pass-through. It becomes a moment.
View more from
Disclaimer: This article is based on a podcast featuring insights from experienced professionals and is intended for general information and inspiration only. While we aim to share valuable guidance, please seek personalised advice from qualified professionals before making decisions about your property, finances, or renovation plans.
Curious to see more practical advice from industry experts? Visit our Top Tips hub for quick, valuable insights shared by people who’ve been there, helping you plan smarter and avoid common mistakes.
Our Mini Guide: Entrance and Hallway Design will show you how to bring together layout, lighting, flooring, storage, and styling into a space that feels intentional and easy to live with. Join MyTrends for access to this and a full library of guides to help you on your property journey.
Curious to see more practical advice from industry experts? Visit our Top Tips hub for quick, valuable insights shared by people who’ve been there, helping you plan smarter and avoid common mistakes.
Our Mini Guide: Entrance and Hallway Design will show you how to bring together layout, lighting, flooring, storage, and styling into a space that feels intentional and easy to live with. Join MyTrends for access to this and a full library of guides to help you on your property journey.
Episode Overview
In this episode of the Trends Property Insight Series, we sit down with Kim, owner and director of Asko Design, one of Christchurch’s most beloved furniture stores. With a legacy that spans over 30 years and roots deeply tied to her own family story, Kim shares a personal and powerful philosophy: that furniture should not only serve a functional purpose, but also become an enduring reflection of your lifestyle, values, and personality.
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