entryway

An entryway is the space at the threshold between the exterior and interior of a building. In residential architecture, it is the area just inside the main entrance and serves as a transitional zone that introduces the home's style while providing a first point of contact for visitors. Entryways may be referred to as a foyer, vestibule, or mudroom, depending on design and climate.

Functions of an entryway include weather protection, privacy, and organization. It typically contains features such as a door and threshold, storage for outerwear and footwear, seating, lighting, and sometimes mirrors or consoles to create a sense of arrival. The layout aims to reduce drafts and define public versus private spaces.

Design considerations focus on scale, durability, and flow. Durable flooring and weather seals, appropriate lighting, and clear sightlines improve usability. Storage solutions like closets, cubbies, or hooks help reduce clutter. Accessibility guidelines favor level thresholds, unobstructed paths, and appropriately placed controls and hardware.

Types vary by region and climate. A vestibule is a small, enclosed area; a foyer is a larger, more formal space; a mudroom emphasizes practical storage and wet-weather functions. Materials range from tile, stone, or ceramic at the base to wood or wallpaper on the walls, with finishes chosen for wear and ease of maintenance.