DIY entryway makeover – 5 projects rolled into one

You guys!!! I finally gave our entryway a makeover. An all DIY entryway makeover. I can hear those of you who follow me on Instagram saying: “But this is old news, Marieza!” You are absolutely correct, my friend. I finished this project before Christmas already. Why did I wait so long to write about it? I did not want to post any new blogs on the old website. Did you notice the new fresh look? I built this baby myself!

Me, who barely knew how to use the internet 15 years ago.

But let’s get back to the entryway!

I am not going to explain each step in detail and keep you reading for days. The photos might tell a better story anyway. This entryway, the smallest space in our house, kept me busy for weeks! Why you ask? Because it was actually 5 projects rolled into one. In time, I will give each step its own post but for now, let me show and tell…

I got rid of the coat closet

I know right, who in his or her right mind wants LESS storage space??? Let me explain.

It was a double-sided closet. It had doors to the entryway and doors to the mudroom. Does that make sense? We, as a family, access the house from the garage into the mudroom, and that is where we hang all our coats and jackets. The entryway is just for guests, and they never hang their jackets in the closet. With the double doors gone, there is so much more I can do with this space! So… I built a wall.

Hold on to your seats for the next crazy idea I got…

I removed the texture from the ceiling!

I really really really want smooth ceilings. To match my beautiful smooth walls. Where does one even start?

I started here! While the area was cleared out, it was the perfect time to bite the bullet and get scraping.

I’m not going to lie, it’s not an enjoyable task. In fact, on my list of worst DIYs, it’s UP THERE!

Was it worth it?

SO worth it! It looks AMAZING! The perfect backdrop for the new light fixtures that am totally in love with.

My craziest idea ever? Not even close! What came next may have been even more whacky…

Removing and replacing all the tile grout

The grout between the floor tiles was in rough shape. Replacing the tiles is not in the current budget. Replacing the grout was the next best thing.

I spent a lot of time on my hands and knees! Once again, a nasty job with beautiful results.

May I just mention that the tile floor in the entryway is connected to the powder room and the mudroom. Naturally I had to do ALL of those areas in one go. That’s how I roll!

Adding board and batten with coat hooks

I love board and batten! It adds so much dimension to a room. The very first board and batten project I did, was in our powder room. You can read the post here.

Seating area for guests to take off and put on their shoes

We live in Canada where our shoes are covered in snow or mud most of the time. Well, almost. An area to sit and take off shoes is essential. Most people prefer a bench. I was heading that way too until I remembered about the two thrift chairs without a place of their own. I gave them a makeover (read the chair makeover post here) and they are perfect for this space!

The new wall where the closet used to be is now the perfect place for a console table and big mirror. After this makeover the entryway is now both functional and beautiful.

And there you have it, the end result of my DIY entryway makeover.

I am so happy with how it looks now! Every time I come down the stairs, I stop for a moment, look at the beautiful light fixtures, and take in the peaceful feeling I get from this space. Mission accomplished!