How to Make a Foyer Useful

Include seating in the foyer for a quick spot to put on or take off shoes or simply to rest; use appropriate-sized furniture for your space, such as a chair, bench or ottoman. Choose an ottoman with a removable lid for additional storage of seasonal items.

Hang decorative hooks on a portion of the wall to rest jackets, keys and backpacks upon entering the home.

Position a console table against one wall and hang a mirror above the table to serve as a quick check point before leaving the house. Set a small lidded-basket on the table to place mail, but to keep it tidy. Look for a console table with a drawer to provide additional storage for small essential items like pens and stamps.

Create a message center with a chalkboard or dry erase board to leave notes for family members. Hang a fabric-covered push-pin board for a decorative but functional place to leave reminders.