8 min read
The DIY Project Everyone Is Doing to Upgrade Their Entryway (Easy, Stylish Tips)
Edited by: Louise (Editor In Chief)
Fact/quality checked before release.
Fact/quality checked before release.
You know that feeling when you walk through your front door and wish your entryway had just a bit more wow factor? You’re not alone. Lately everyone’s catching on to a DIY trend that’s transforming bland entrances into real showstoppers—and you don’t need a sledgehammer or a big budget to pull it off.
Why Entryway Upgrades Are Trending
You’ve probably noticed that entryway makeovers are popping up everywhere—and it’s not just because people want to impress the neighbors. It comes down to making every square foot count, especially in smaller homes and apartments. When you give your entryway a little personality, you’re setting the tone for your entire space the second anyone walks in.
Homeowners love quick wins that actually make a difference. Swapping out an old, scuffed shoe rack for a sleek new bench or adding a bold coat of paint creates instant impact. According to Houzz’s 2023 survey, 57% of homeowners tackled smaller projects like entryway updates before jumping into bigger renovations. That’s a whole lot of folks craving quick, budget-friendly transformations.
You also see growing interest thanks to social platforms like Instagram and Pinterest, where sharing before-and-afters inspires DIY ideas in minutes. Whether it’s a statement light fixture, a patterned rug, or a wall of hooks, these upgrades deliver instant curb appeal and daily convenience. After all, you use that spot daily, so why not make it shine?
What Is The DIY Project Everyone Is Doing to Upgrade Their Entryway
Check out the trend everyone’s buzzing about—transforming your entryway with a budget-friendly, custom accent wall. This simple weekend project instantly boosts style and gives your home a memorable first impression.
Key Features of the Popular Entryway DIY
- Custom Wood Slat Walls: Statement walls made from vertical or horizontal wood slats bring that modern-rustic vibe you see all over Instagram. Paint them any color for a bold look or stain for warmth.
- Bold Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper: If you aren’t into woodwork, grab a roll of peel-and-stick—these wallpapers come in geometric, botanical, and abstract designs to suit any style.
- Functional Seating Upgrades: Browse Pinterest or TikTok and you’ll notice everyone’s swapping out old furniture for sleek entryway benches with built-in storage.
- Floating Shelves and Wall Hooks: Floating wood shelves and stylish wall hooks balance organization with charm—great for keys, mail, and bags.
Materials and Tools Needed
| Material | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Pre-cut wood slats or MDF strips | DIY accent wall building |
| Peel-and-stick wallpaper | Quick and reversible wall transformation |
| Stain or interior wall paint | Wood finishing or adding a pop of color |
| Entryway bench (flat-pack or thrifted) | Seating and storage |
| Floating shelves and wall hooks | Stylish space-saving storage |
| Level | Keeping lines straight for wall features |
| Drill & screws, adhesive strips | Securing shelves and hooks or installing accent wall |
| Measuring tape | Ensuring precise placement for a polished look |
Pick your materials based on your vibe and space. If you’re after maximum impact with minimum tools, wood slats combined with a punch of color top the list in DIY entryway makeovers.
Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the Project
Ready to transform your entryway from basic to breathtaking? Grab your tool belt—it’s game time. Create that wow-factor right inside your front door with these easy-to-follow steps.
Preparation and Planning
Visualize your dream entryway—sketch your layout or use a free online design tool like Roomstyler for a mockup. Pick your accent wall inspiration from trending designs: wood slats, colorful peel-and-stick wallpaper, or geometric paint patterns. Measure your entryway’s width and height, jotting down the numbers so you buy the perfect amount of materials.
Gather your supplies ahead of time. For most accent wall projects, you’ll want:
- Wood slats or peel-and-stick wallpaper
- Nails, level, stud finder (for slats)
- Painter’s tape, paint, rollers, drop cloths (for paint)
- Sturdy bench, floating shelves, decorative hooks (for upgrades)
Clear the space so you’re not tripping over shoes or jackets. If you rent, check with your landlord before drilling or painting. Safety check: make sure you have eye protection, and work in a well-ventilated area if you’re using paint or adhesives.
Executing the Upgrade
Mark your guidelines first using a pencil and level for accuracy—straight lines make the whole project look pro. If you’re working with wood slats, attach them to your marked guidelines using a nail gun or adhesive (for smaller, lighter slats). Space each piece evenly for that crisp, modern look.
Install peel-and-stick wallpaper by starting at one corner and smoothing as you go to avoid bubbles. Trim excess with a utility knife for clean edges. If painting, lay down your drop cloth, apply painter’s tape along edges and baseboards, then roll on your base coat and let it dry before any accent patterns.
Add your functional upgrades once your accent wall is finished. Mount shelves and hooks on studs for strength. Place your entryway bench snugly against the wall, and pop a couple of baskets underneath for grab-and-go storage.
Benefits of Upgrading Your Entryway
Giving your entryway a refresh packs some serious benefits before you even step inside. A simple DIY update does more than impress guests—it’s a win for your home’s style, function, and value.
Aesthetic Improvements
Instantly, upgrading your entryway creates a welcoming vibe. Those wood slats or bold wallpapers? They draw the eye, making even small spaces feel intentional and pulled together. Custom benches and organized hooks show off your style—with a little wow factor—without the big spend. Personal touches like accent walls can turn a blank space into your own custom foyer, pepping up your mood every time you walk through the door.
Increased Home Value and Functionality
Real estate pros agree—a smart entryway upgrade adds value. Even small changes like adding shelving or a seating nook may help homes stand out in listing photos, grabbing buyers’ attention. According to Zillow’s 2023 report, homes with stylish entryways receive up to 5% more offers compared to those with cluttered or outdated spaces. Extra storage, spots for shoes, bags, or coats, and a boost in curb appeal mean every inch works harder for you. A functional entryway streamlines your daily routine, slashing clutter and making life a little easier from the moment you walk in.
Real-Life Success Stories
You’re not the only one dreaming of a standout entryway—your neighbors are already rolling up their sleeves and diving in! Take Jenny from Portland, for example. She swapped her dated beige walls for custom pine slats, staggered floor to ceiling. The transformation? Visitors now pause at the door, complimenting her “boutique hotel” vibe. Jenny spent just $110 and knocked out the project in a single Saturday.
Another go-getter, Malik in Tampa, shared his journey on Instagram. He picked up bold, peel-and-stick wallpaper in a geometric pattern, turning his drab entry nook into an eye-catching focal point. Malik says, “That $45 wallpaper totally energized the space, and I didn’t even need a ladder.” His post drew dozens of direct messages from friends eager to try it out.
Don’t forget about creative storage solutions. After following a TikTok tutorial, Avery and Ellis in Seattle built a set of floating shelves with hidden hooks. This clever upgrade helped them corral overflowing jackets and keys while keeping the floor clutter-free. The couple spent less than $75 and now love how arriving home feels organized and welcoming.
Take a peek at the numbers behind these transformations:
| Name | DIY Feature Highlight | Total Cost | Project Time | Notable Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jenny | Pine slat accent wall | $110 | 1 Saturday | “Boutique hotel” look at the door |
| Malik | Geometric peel wallpaper | $45 | 2 hours | Dramatic energy boost for entryway |
| Avery & Ellis | Floating shelves/hooks | $75 | 1 evening | Mess-free, efficient organization |
Tips for Personalizing Your Own Entryway Project
Ready to put your own stamp on this hot DIY project? Here’s how you take that entryway from “just a pass-through” to “wow, did you do this yourself?” Mix and match materials that reflect your vibe—think reclaimed wood for a rustic touch, ultra-sleek slats for a modern look, or vibrant wallpaper patterns for instant personality.
Layer in bold pops of color if you want to create a focal point. Paint just the slats, try a two-tone wall, or even stencil a graphic design—the options are endless once you bring your own color story. Switch out basic hardware for eye-catching wall hooks, oversized knobs, or even vintage doorknockers you score at a flea market.
Let functionality meet flair. Install cubbies or a slim console table so your backpack and keys have a permanent home. Floating shelves become display space for favorite art, a quirky sculpture, or framed family memories. Add a basket or two under your bench for shoes and scatter a few baskets by the door for grab-and-go storage.
Don’t forget the lighting—swap in statement sconces or a funky pendant to bring warmth and drama every time someone steps inside. And if you love a little greenery, finish with a potted plant or hanging foliage to liven up the entire entryway.
Every choice—from the pattern on your wall to the type of bench you place under it—adds your own signature. When you tailor each detail, your entryway instantly goes from trend-following to trendsetting.
Conclusion
Now’s the perfect time to give your entryway a fresh look that’s both stylish and practical. Whether you’re aiming for a bold statement wall or clever organization hacks you’ve got plenty of inspiration and easy options to choose from.
With just a weekend of effort you can create an entryway that feels inviting and uniquely yours. Don’t be afraid to get creative and let your personality shine every time you walk through the door.