Change Your Door

• One of the simplest ways to change the look of your entryway is to replace your entry door. While it serves a practical purpose, your door can also provide a decorative element to your home. You may choose from a variety of door materials. Wood is the most common and can add a warm, natural look to an entryway. Opt for a solid wood door, or one that features decorative glass panels for added visual interest. Steel, aluminum and fiberglass-composite doors are extremely durable and come in a range of colors that can brighten the entryway. Consider the style of the door as well. If you currently have a single door, you may want to widen your entryway to feature double doors and create a more dramatic look.
  
  

Refinish the Staircase

• If your entryway or mudroom features a staircase, sprucing up its look can help bring new life to the entire area. This project may be ideal if you have carpeted stairs and the material is beginning to look threadbare. You can stain the wood beneath or paint it in a variety of colors. A white staircase can help brighten the look of your entryway or mudroom, but you can also paint the risers and treads in contrasting shades for a bolder look.
  
  

Add Built-In Storage

• Storage is a key element in an entryway or mudroom because family members and guests need a place to put their coats, gloves, boots and other items. If you're using a freestanding coat rack or table, consider adding a built-in storage unit. You can have it custom built so it provides the type of storage that meets your family's needs. Shelves, cabinets and drawers are ideal for providing concealed storage. You may also consider features such as: cubbies for shoes; a rod for hanging coats and jackets; and pegs for bags, scarves and hats. This type of open storage provides convenient, easy access to frequently used items. You can also incorporate a bench so family members have a spot to sit when putting on and taking off their shoes.
  
  

Replace Floor

• Replacing the floor in your entryway or mudroom can change the look of the space dramatically. The flooring should extremely durable so it can withstand the moisture, dirt and debris that may be tracked in from outside. While wood floors add a warm, natural look, they can be difficult to maintain. Opt for laminate flooring instead, which offers the attractive look of wood but holds up to wear and tear more effectively. Laminate flooring can become slippery when wet, though, which may be an issue with small children or elderly relatives. Stone tile is another attractive option. It's moisture resistant and extremely durable, but offers better traction than laminate flooring because it's textured. Whichever option you choose, go with a dark color to help hide dirt and stains. A colorful doormat on which guests can wipe their feet is a good idea as well.