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It may be the smallest room in your house, but it's the one guests notice first. Here's how to welcome them with style.

Photo: Quentin Bacon

It doesn't take much to turn an entryway from a stark space into an inviting zone for everyone who sets foot in your pad. Get started:

Light It Up 
Dramatic lighting, whether it's a chandelier, pendant, or sconces, totally sets the mood. If you don’t have high ceilings, try pinspot lighting over artwork.

Hang Something
Don't save all of your cool art for the living room. Hang a single painting, a series of small prints, or a decorative mirror, which will make the room look bigger.

Give Life
A flower or plant eases the transition from outside in (and green always looks good). If your space is small, place potted blooms on a side table.

Add Color
Paint the walls a rich color, such as deep rust or teal, or paint the ceiling, depending on how it might work with your color scheme. If the ceiling is under eight feet tall, paint it a shade or two lighter than the walls; if it's over eight feet, paint it a shade or two darker. Like neutral walls? Add color with a vibrant rug or artwork.

Keep It Clean
Designate a semi-hidden spot for weather-ridden accessories. Cubby holes beneath a console work well for shoes, and a tall (at least 18 inches) galvanized planter will catch your umbrella’s drip -- and still look nice.

Don’t Forget The Mats
A washable doormat will keep you from tracking in mud. If you don’t want to leave it out all the time, store it in an oversize bin.

Get Pegged
Pegs are great for hanging coats and jackets. Space them six to eight inches apart.

Leave Room
Give yourselves around three to four feet of room to walk by one another. When buying furniture, remember to think small, like an eight-inch-wide table or shelf.

Have a Seat
A simple chair placed against the wall instantly gives the room a cozier look and makes taking off those trendy rain boots that much easier.

Nestpert Chayse Dacoda of HGTV’s Get It Together

-- Christa Vagnozzi