Design Notes by The Collective Haus

Bold Spaces. Expert Tips.

Real Stories.

Dive into the inspiration behind our favorite transformations - from remodel walkthroughs to curated styling tips and must-have product roundups. This is your go-to source for real-life design advice that blends beauty and function. Whether you're planning, pinning, or just peeking behind the scenes, you’re in the right place.

SOUTH BOISE MAKEOVER

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SOUTH BOISE MAKEOVER

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FURNITURE & DECOR

Designing a Statement Entry:

How to Set the Tone for Your Entire Home

This high-impact, small-footprint space deserves more than a basic boob light and beige paint. Let’s fix that.

How to Style an Entryway That Feels Both Functional and Beautiful:

Your entryway is the first impression your home makes - and too often, it’s an afterthought. It’s where you toss your keys, kick off your shoes, and maybe drop a few packages. But with a few intentional upgrades, it can also become one of the most designed moments in your home.

Below, I’m sharing my go-to design tips for elevating your entry (without a full reno), plus a few of my favorite affiliate-linked products to help you create a moment the second you walk in the door.

Why the Entryway Matters (Even If It’s Small):

Think of your entry as the vibe check for your home. It sets the tone. It tells your guests (and honestly, you) what to expect from the rest of the space. If you care about design - and I know you do - it’s worth curating a vibe here, even if it’s just a tiny hallway or landing.

Upgrading this zone can:

Create a seamless transition between the outside world and your sanctuary
Add a wow moment without renovating a whole room
Offer daily function with style (think: baskets, benches, catch-all bowls)
Give you a place to experiment with color, pattern, or bolder lighting

How to Elevate Your Entry (Without Ripping Out Walls):

Here are the key elements I focus on with clients (and in my own work) when designing a statement entry:

Lighting That Does Something: Swap the too-small flush mount for something intentional - like a wide, sculptural flush mount or a statement pendant if your ceiling allows.

A Mirror or Art Moment: Mirrors bounce light and open up the space - art adds soul. A round mirror, layered with a sconce or two, is classic. A bold piece of artwork? Even better.

Furniture with Function: If there’s room: a small console, floating shelf, or bench. Bonus points if it gives you a spot to stash shoes, keys, or mail.

Texture Underfoot: Nothing sets a space like a rug. Go vintage-inspired, washable, or bold pattern - just make sure it’s the right size.

Styling Bits That Show Personality: Think trays, baskets, bowls, branches, candles. This is your chance to play and infuse a little “you.”

Brooke's Take:

If you’ve been feeling “meh” about your house lately, don’t underestimate the power of your entry. Swapping a few items here can shift the whole energy of your space.

No sledgehammer required - just a better light fixture, a fresh rug, and a few curated pieces to make it feel like home. Feel free to get weird with it - the more you the better.

Let’s Make That Entryway the Main Character:

Lighting? Handled. Finishes? Elevated. Vibes? Immaculate.

Scroll up to shop my favorite affiliate picks - or head to The Collective Haus Shop for even more curated finds I’d actually put in a client’s home (or mine).

Need backup? Book a Designer-for-a-Day VIP Consultation and let’s pull it all together in four hours flat. You bring the house, I’ll bring the magic.

Because “entry goals” don’t happen by accident.