How to Organize an Entryway With Locker-Style Cupboards

Paint the locker-style cupboards to match the entryway. One way to make this a larger part of your decorating scheme is to paint the wall behind the cupboards a different color than the walls around it; this creates an accent wall. Paint the cupboards the same color so that they become a part of the area's focal point.

Stencil decorative patterns on the cupboards. Choose a pattern that matches other patterns in the area. For example, if you have a diamond pattern on the floor tile, create the same pattern in your stenciling.

Hang a bulletin board on the side of the cupboard. Use this area to leave messages for family members. Get a bulletin board that includes key hooks. Make sure that there are enough hooks for all the sets of keys in the house. Use self-adhesive hooks to hang the bulletin board.

Store items such as shoes and slippers on the lower shelves of the cupboard. Make sure that the locker-style cupboard has enough lower shelf space to stow away the shoes of all your family members. Additionally, if you have a no shoe policy in the house, keep pairs of slippers here for people. They can change their shoes as they come into the entry; include enough extra pairs for guests. Hide the shoes behind cupboard doors.

Use the vertical cupboard spaces for hanging up coats. Each family member should have a cubby space for their coats. Use stencils to create decorative lettering to write their names on each cupboard door.

Make a space for items such as umbrellas.

Add decorative elements in the spaces without doors. In the recessed areas of the cupboard, display items such as a sculpture collection, a series of black and white photos, pottery or floral arrangements. Don't neglect this element; these items make the locker-style cupboard look like it's a part of the interior design instead of being something completely utilitarian. This helps it better blend in with the entryway's decor scheme.