Let’s be honest—your entryway is the first thing people see when they walk into your home. But if it’s looking a little blah, you’re not alone. Maybe you’ve got a boring wall that feels like it’s stuck in the 90s, or maybe you’re just tired of tripping over shoes without at least having something pretty to look at. You want a space that says “welcome” without needing a full renovation. That’s where wallpaper comes in. In this post, we’ll show you how to turn that forgettable entryway into a showstopper with wallpaper tricks that even your kids could explain. By the end, you’ll know how to pick patterns, make installation a breeze, and keep it looking fresh for years. Let’s dive in!
Picking the Perfect Wallpaper Pattern
Not all wallpaper is created equal. Your entryway is a high-traffic zone, so durability matters. Look for vinyl or washable options—they’re like the superheroes of wallpaper, handling muddy paw prints and backpack smudges without a fuss. If you’re renting or love changing styles often, peel-and-stick wallpaper is your best friend. At HomeCrt, we’ve got a whole collection of removable designs that won’t damage walls.
Think about the vibe you want:
- Small entryway? Go for light colors or subtle patterns to keep it airy.
- Bold geometrics or tropical prints can make a cramped space feel intentional and lively.
- If your home has a farmhouse style, try botanical or vintage-inspired patterns.
Imagine your neighbor Sarah—a busy mom who transformed her tiny entryway with a soft blue floral wallpaper. It hid scuff marks and made the space feel bigger. She paired it with a rustic bench, and now her entryway looks straight out of a magazine.
Installing Without the Headache
Wallpaper installation doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Start with clean, smooth walls. If your walls have texture, consider a lining paper first—it’s like a primer for wallpaper. Measure twice, cut once, and use a level to keep those lines straight. Pro tip: overlap seams slightly if you’re using peel-and-stick to avoid gaps.
Struggling with alignment? Better Homes & Gardens has a great step-by-step guide for tricky corners. And if you’re nervous, practice on a small section behind the door. At HomeCrt, we’ve seen customers nail it on their first try by taking it slow and using the right tools (like a smoothing brush and sharp utility knife).
Mixing Wallpaper with Your Existing Decor
Wallpaper shouldn’t clash with your stuff. If your entryway has a bold rug or colorful furniture, stick to neutral patterns. Love minimalist decor? Try a subtle textured wallpaper, like grasscloth or linen-look designs. For a cohesive feel, pull one color from the wallpaper and repeat it in your wall art, baskets, or even a vase.
Take inspiration from our friend Mark, who paired a black-and-white striped wallpaper with a bright red console table. The stripes made the narrow hallway feel wider, and the pop of red tied everything together. Don’t forget lighting! A sleek pendant light can highlight your wallpaper like a spotlight on a stage.
Keeping It Fresh (Without Constant Work)
Wallpaper in the entryway needs to survive life’s chaos. Wipeable finishes are a must—especially if you’ve got kids or pets. Avoid delicate materials like silk or untreated paper. If a section gets damaged, keep extra rolls for quick fixes. Most HomeCrt wallpapers are sold in “repair packs” for this exact reason.
Dust and dirt can dull the look over time. A microfiber cloth or soft brush does the trick. For stubborn spots, a damp cloth with mild soap works, but always test a hidden area first. Want more ideas? Apartment Therapy has smart cleaning hacks for every wallpaper type.
So there you have it—wallpaper isn’t just for accent walls anymore. With the right pattern, a little patience, and some clever styling, your entryway can go from “meh” to “whoa!” in a weekend. Remember, it’s all about balancing personality with practicality. Whether you go bold or keep it chill, your entryway deserves to shine. And hey, if you’re itching to see more ideas, our team at HomeCrt’s blog is always adding new tips. Now go make that first impression count!
