How to Style an 8 m² Entrance Hall in a Secondary Apartment to Make It Functional and Stylish

The entrance hall is the first area that visitors see when entering the home. Although it is often overlooked, this space forms the first impression of the living space.

In this project, designer Ilona Rafikova shows how even in a limited space it's possible to combine aesthetics and comfort: color, light, and well-thought-out storage systems work together to make the entry area not only beautiful but also practical.

Photo before renovation

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Chairs. July 2025

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The interior is built around a calm blue palette with contrasting details. Wall color refreshes the space, and its cool undertone creates a sense of cleanliness and neatness. The solution looks great when combined with black-and-white elements and small accents of saturated red—this instantly adds depth to the interior.

Storage in the entrance hall is organized wisely: there are two wardrobes with mirror fronts. One is for everyday clothes, the other for practical needs, which allows hiding unnecessary items and keeping order. Reflective surfaces further expand the space.

The low shoe rack with a soft seating area solves several tasks at once: it helps put on shoes, stores everyday footwear, and completes the composition. The minimalist design does not clutter the interior, while the warm tone echoes wooden elements from other rooms.

Lighting is designed with the small dimensions of the entrance hall in mind. The ceiling light evenly illuminates the entire area, and thanks to a light palette and mirror surfaces, the room feels more spacious. Even without windows, the space remains bright.

This project proves that even the most compact entrance hall can be stylish and atmospheric. The key is to consider proportions, choose restrained colors, and not fear accents.