Designers Reveal the One Entryway Mistake Everyone Makes and How to Fix It

Ever walked into your home and felt like something was just... off in your entryway, but you couldn't quite pinpoint what? You're not alone! 🤔 Designer Erin Hackett, who runs Village Design Studio with her sister Meghan Hackett Cassidy, says there's one glaring mistake she spots in nearly every home she visits – and it's probably sitting right at your doorstep. But don't worry, the fix is surprisingly simple and will transform your entry from awkward to amazing!

The Criminal Element: The Puny Doormat

Erin and her sister share the same design pet peeve: "a too-small, utilitarian doormat that feels like an afterthought." Think about it – that standard-sized welcome mat is like trying to catch a waterfall with a teacup when it comes to handling the dirt, debris, and moisture from daily life. It's functional, sure, but it does nothing for your home's aesthetic.

"Your entryway is more than just a pass-through," Erin emphasizes. "It's the first and last impression your guests have of your home. It sets the tone, creates a feeling, and offers a glimpse into the style and energy that carries through the rest of your space." A sad little doormat is like sending a text message when you should be sending a handwritten invitation – it just doesn't set the right vibe! 💌

The Hero Solution: The Statement Area Rug

So what's the magic fix? Ditch the doormat and upgrade to a large, durable area rug! 🎉

"We always encourage clients to skip the standard-issue mat and instead invest in a beautiful, well-sized rug that fits the space and complements the rest of the home," Erin advises. This isn't just about looks – a larger rug actually works BETTER at its job.

Why big rugs rule:

• ✅ More effective: Catches more dirt and snow from boots

• ✅ Defines the space: Creates a clear entry zone

• ✅ Adds warmth & texture: Makes the area feel intentional

• ✅ Polished look: Feels like part of the room rather than an afterthought

"A larger rug not only helps define the entry but also adds warmth, texture, and a sense of intention," Erin says. "It should feel like part of the room, not just something tossed down to catch dirt."

Rug Material Matters: Durability is Key

Now, you might be thinking: "But my doormat is durable!" Fear not – you can have both style AND substance. When selecting an entryway rug, Erin looks for materials that can handle heavy foot traffic, just like traditional doormats.

Top durable rug materials:

• Jute (Erin's favorite!)

• Indoor/outdoor polypropylene

• Wool blends

• Flatweave cotton

These materials are like the superheroes of the rug world – they look amazing while secretly having incredible dirt-fighting powers! 💪

The Perfect Entryway Formula

While we had Erin's attention, we asked for her complete entryway blueprint. Her philosophy? Less is more. "This hardworking space doesn't need much to make a lasting impression," she says.

Here's Erin's foolproof formula for entryway perfection:

Step 1: Start with a Clean Slate

Remove everything first! This is like giving your entryway a digital detox – clear out the clutter before adding anything new.

Step 2: The Core Components

Step 3: Why This Formula Works

Erin breaks it down: "A mirror not only offers a quick glance before you head out the door but also helps bounce natural light around, opening up even the smallest vestibule." This setup is like a perfectly choreographed dance – every element has its role and they all work together harmoniously. 💃

Common Entryway Mistakes to Avoid

While we're fixing the rug situation, here are other pitfalls Erin notices:

🚫 Over-decorating – Entryways need to function first

🚫 Poor lighting – Dark entryways feel unwelcoming

🚫 No storage – Where do keys, mail, and shoes go?

🚫 Ignoring scale – Furniture that's too big or too small

🚫 Forgetting personality – Your entry should reflect YOU!

The Transformation Effect

Upgrading from a tiny doormat to a proper area rug is like swapping out your phone's grainy front camera for a professional portrait lens – suddenly, everything looks clearer, more intentional, and infinitely more impressive! 📸

The best part? This is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to elevate your entire home's first impression. You don't need a massive renovation – just a strategic swap and a few thoughtful additions.

So next time you walk through your door and feel that subtle dissatisfaction, remember Erin's advice: think bigger, think intentional, and give that entryway the love it deserves! Your future self (and your guests) will thank you. ✨