I recently moved into a small Chalet in the suburbs, and I’m loving having my own little yard. It puts me in a great mood every day. However, one small thing has been bugging me: the entryway. It feels very different from what I’m used to. The space isn’t very large, and its function seems more decorative than practical. Trying to fit a large shoe cabinet feels a bit out of place.
I’ve taken a look at my neighbors’ and friends’ homes and noticed that entryways here in Spain are generally quite small, especially in more traditional houses. They don’t seem to prioritize massive storage solutions; instead, the focus is on the ‘feeling’ you get upon entering. Typically, you’ll find a small console table with a mirror above it, along with a few decorative items like a vase or a small tray for keys. The floors are usually tiled, which is very practical and easy to clean.
Core Elements of the Entryway
I’ve summarized the most common items found in a Spanish entryway; the core components are pretty consistent. For those who are new to Spain and setting up their home, especially when considering villa entrances, this can serve as a helpful guide to avoid common mistakes.
| Common Items | Spanish Term | Main Function |
|---|
| Console Table | Consola | Holding keys, mail, and decorative items |
| Mirror | Espejo | For checking one’s appearance and expanding space |
| Coat Rack | Perchero | For hanging coats, scarves, and hats |
| Shoe Rack/Bench | Zapatero / Banco | For storing shoes and providing a seat for changing |
Balancing Practicality and Aesthetics
To be honest, completely ignoring storage isn’t realistic, especially for families with children. My idea is to make some modifications while maintaining the Spanish style. For instance, choosing a ‘Consola’ with drawers can help hide clutter. If space allows, a narrow shoe cabinet could be placed in an inconspicuous corner, or perhaps a bench that doubles as both seating and storage. It’s best to forget about those massive floor-to-ceiling shoe cabinets; they really ruin the overall aesthetic. The key is to keep the entrance feeling open and tidy.
The design of a Spanish entryway is more like the ‘face’ and ‘prologue’ of a home, emphasizing a sense of ritual in welcoming you back, rather than being a purely functional storage area. I’m now planning to get a vintage-style ‘Consola’ and a round mirror, and then I’ll slowly hunt for some small decorative items. How have you all decorated your entryways? Any great gadgets or pitfalls you’ve encountered? Feel free to reply with pictures and share your ideas!
