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Tumalo Entryway: Space Optimization & Solutions

Let’s talk entryways, shall we? It’s funny – we’ve shared all sorts of updates about our home renovation journey, but we haven’t touched on the entryway yet. And … there’s a reason for that. With just two weeks until move-in day, things are getting pretty hectic around here. We’ve got electrical work happening, appliances being installed, and the final touches of paint going up on the walls. Oh, and did I mention that the entryway isn’t exactly spacious? 

Nope, it’s just a cozy little welcome area right off the living room, all part of one big open space.

But, despite its size, this entryway has got me excited. Why? Because it’s a blank canvas waiting to be transformed into something special. It’s a space that’s going to set the tone for the rest of our home, so you better believe I want to get it just right. So here’s where things get interesting. I’ve been going back and forth on how to approach this, deciding whether it should it be a practical spot for family and friends to kick off their shoes and hang their jackets, or whether it should be more about the aesthetic. Honestly, it has to be a bit of both.

When you step through the front door into the entryway …

… there’s this one little wall that’s just begging to be the focal point! And, I’ve got big plans for it! I’m talking a stylish bench (or maybe a console table) adorned with art, and stools stashed underneath for extra seating by the fire. Or, why not a combination of both? 

The possibilities are endless, but one thing’s for sure – I want it to feel intentional and functional. In reality, a true reflection of our style and how we envision ourselves using the space. So, join me on this journey as we dive into the world of entryway design. We want to turn this little corner into a welcoming oasis that sets the perfect tone for our home.

I’ve been mulling over a couple of ideas, and have whipped up two mood boards to help visualize what I’m thinking. Let’s see what we’ve got!


I’ve been eyeing this first option for a while now. We used this Rush House rug for one of our clients, and it’s still in the running. The woven pattern brings nice texture to a space, and I love its neutrality. It goes with anything! It’s a large-scale art piece that would set the tone perfectly. All I would need to do is find a farmhouse-style console table to tie it all together.

What’s got me really excited are these adorable camel-colored stools with fringe detailing. They add a playful touch, and really capture the rustic charm of Tumalo. Plus, picture this: two sconces flanking the art, casting a warm glow — it’s a wall that’s as beautiful as it is inviting.


Just as much function as Option 1. But, instead of a tabletop for dropping things, I’m wondering if a bench is a better option here? I have a vintage bench I purchased years ago that may fit perfectly on the wall, with a great piece of art above it. You gotta love benches for entryways, especially if you don’t have a coat closet. They’re a great landing pad for bags, coats, hats etc.

Well, which do you think? Knowing me, I won’t be able to decide until we get our things moved in. And, they’ve been in storage for the last eight months! I almost forget what all we have …

***

That being said, I’m thinking of hosting a yard sale the same weekend we move in. Crazy? Maybe a little. Truth be told, I’m not entirely sure where we’ll fit all our stuff. This house is a significant downsizing for us, but it’s a shift we’ve embraced as the kids have grown. We’ve come to realize that functionality is key when it comes to home design, and we don’t necessarily need a sprawling house anymore. With the kids becoming more independent, it’s mostly just D and me these days. 😭

But, here’s the catch: this house is seriously lacking in storage space. We’ve already got two storage units bursting at the seams, so it’s high time we clear out the clutter and pass along the things that no longer serve us. So, mark your calendars for the weekend of May 18/19 – if you’re in town, swing by and say hello! Who knows, you might just find a treasure or two.

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Possible? Sure.
Recommended? ...not so much.😅
A kitchen renovation isn’t just cabinets and tile. It’s hundreds of decisions stacked on top of each other.
Even in this phase alone, I can easily count 60+ choices we’ve guided our clients through: layout, lighting, functionality, finishes, details you don’t think about until it’s too late.
That’s the difference between a kitchen that’s pretty... and one that truly works beautifully for the way you live.
Our experience helps you avoid expensive “oops” moments and get it right the first time.
And don’t worry, this is just the beginning. The reveal is coming soon, so stay tuned
If you’re planning a kitchen (or already overwhelmed), explore our design services — we’d love to help.
Idea creds: @gldesignhome
✨ A new chapter of the Monthly Edit ✨
(The February Edit goes live tonight at 5pm CST.)
Almost two years ago, I started sharing these little roundups as a way to collect the things I genuinely loved. Pieces for the home, beautiful finds, items I’d saved or purchased again and again.
But over time, it’s evolved into something more.
Because design inspiration doesn’t come from just one place.
It comes from what we’re watching on a cozy night in…
the places we travel…
the fashion trends we can’t stop pinning…
the beauty products we swear by (I’m always testing something new 🙋‍♀️)…
the music that brings us right back to another season of life.
Everything we experience shapes the way we see, and the way we design.
So each month, I’ll be sharing a peek into what’s inspiring me right now! Home, lifestyle, culture (all of it) downloaded from my little world into one Edit.
If you want a glimpse into my (slightly chaotic) designer brain, follow along. 🤍
Save this Reel! The full February Edit goes live tonight at 5pm CST.
This fireplace was… a lot 😅 Demo always looks scary before it gets good. We’re officially past the messy part and heading into all the exciting details—follow along as this space starts to come to life!