Transforming Chaos into Cohesion: The Entryway Makeover

They say first impressions matter, and in our home, the entryway was desperately in need of a makeover. Our long living room lacked a defined entry space, and what began as a bench for our furry friend, Gunner, to enjoy the view, soon transformed into a mishmash of coats, shoes, and general chaos. Determined to turn this high-traffic area into a stylish and functional space, I embarked on a DIY journey that led to a complete entryway transformation.

BEFORE PHOTOS

The initial setup included a bench under the window, providing Gunner with a front-row seat to the world outside, and a metal hall tree valiantly attempting to corral our coats and shoes. Despite its functionality, the space lacked cohesion, didn’t match my true interior style, and the dream of a built-in entryway bench and mudroom-inspired storage lingered in the back of my mind.

Built-In Cabinets

The turning point came when I stumbled upon two large floor-to-ceiling pantry cabinets at my favorite local restore, Home Resource, (located in Missoula, MT) at a price I simply couldn’t pass up. I got both of these cabinets for $125 total…These are normally anywhere from $250 to $600 per cabinet. With a vision forming in my mind, I set out to repurpose these cabinets into closed storage, the perfect solution for our coats, vacuum, and the non-stop collection of shoes by the front door.

Built-In Bench

The transformation wasn’t complete without the addition of a custom-built entryway bench. Armed with nothing but scrap wood and a determination to bring my vision to life, I set to work crafting a bench that seamlessly melded with the newfound storage units. The result was not only functional but also added a touch of rustic charm to the space.

The Reveal!

The closed storage proved to be a game-changer, offering a designated spot for coats and eliminating the constant search for misplaced shoes. The vacuum found a discreet home, leaving the entryway looking tidy and welcoming. The bench, not just a functional piece, became a focal point—a place to sit, put on shoes, and the perfect nap spot for Gunner the good boy!

This project reminded me that a little creativity and resourcefulness can go a long way. The mismatched chaos has transformed into a cohesive and chic entryway, proving that with some ingenuity and a few scrap wood pieces, even the most challenging spaces can be turned into a stylish spot. Gunner still gets to enjoys his window view, but now he does so in the midst of an entryway that welcomes both guests and the daily hustle and bustle of life.

** look at the comparison between the listing photo from when we purchased our home in 2018 to now!!!