How to give your entryway that HGTV reveal feel for $100

Your entryway sets the tone for your whole house. It’s the first thing people see when they walk in, and it can make the difference between “nice place” and “wow.” The good news? You don’t need a designer budget to get that HGTV-level transformation.

With about $100 and a few smart swaps, you can make your entryway feel bright, intentional, and pulled together. These changes focus on texture, lighting, and layout—the same tricks the pros use, minus the high price tag.

Add a statement light fixture

Swapping out an outdated or builder-grade light instantly upgrades the space. A stylish flush mount or small pendant can give your entry that “reveal” moment before anyone even sees the rest of the house.

You can find high-end-looking options online or at hardware stores for under $100. Go for warm lighting that flatters everything around it, and make sure it ties in with other finishes like door hardware or mirrors.

Layer a washable rug

Entryways take a beating, so a good rug is worth every penny. A patterned, washable runner or area rug hides dirt while adding color and texture.

Stick with low-pile options so doors still open easily. Patterns like vintage-inspired designs or subtle stripes look timeless and clean up easily, giving your space that lived-in but pulled-together feel.

Hang a framed mirror

A mirror does more than help you check your hair before heading out—it bounces light around and makes the space feel bigger. Choose a shape that fits your space, like an arch or round mirror for balance.

You can often find great deals on framed mirrors for under $100, especially in neutral finishes like black, wood, or brass. It’s a small change that instantly elevates everything around it.

Create a mini drop zone

An entryway needs function as much as looks. Adding a small console, bench, or wall shelf gives you a spot to drop keys, wallets, and mail without cluttering up the space.

If you’re tight on room, go vertical. Floating shelves or slim wall-mounted racks do the job without eating into your floor space. It’s one of those practical upgrades that makes your home feel organized instantly.

Add matching wall hooks

A clean row of matching hooks adds symmetry and purpose. They’re great for hanging coats, hats, or bags, especially if you don’t have a coat closet nearby.

Look for sturdy metal or wood hooks that tie in with your lighting or mirror finish. Even a few hooks spaced evenly can make the wall look styled instead of random.

Paint the front door interior

A fresh coat of paint on the inside of your front door adds a burst of personality without overwhelming the space. It’s one of the easiest and cheapest ways to create that “wow” effect.

Deep colors like navy, olive, or charcoal look especially good with white trim and make the entry feel custom and intentional. One quart of paint and an hour or two is all it takes.

Upgrade the hardware

Swapping your door handle or adding a new coat rack or light switch cover can make a surprisingly big difference. It’s those small details that pull a space together.

Stick with finishes that complement each other—matte black, brushed nickel, or antique brass. You don’t need fancy hardware to make the space look like it belongs on TV.

Bring in greenery

Plants add life and texture, which are two things every HGTV space has in common. A small potted fern, fiddle leaf fig, or even faux greenery makes the space feel more styled.

If your entry doesn’t get much natural light, go faux or use low-light options like snake plants or pothos. A small touch of green breaks up all the neutrals and adds warmth.

Add ambient lighting

Layered lighting is a design secret that makes any room feel finished. Plug-in sconces, table lamps, or battery-powered candles can add that cozy, soft glow people always notice.

Warm light softens the space and makes it feel more inviting when you walk in at night. Even a $30 table lamp on a console can make a big visual impact.

Style a few key accents

You don’t need to fill every surface—just a few thoughtful pieces make all the difference. A small tray, a framed photo, or a bowl for keys helps everything feel intentional.

Stick with a few pieces that fit your color palette and materials. Keeping it minimal ensures your entryway looks curated, not cluttered, and gives it that polished, reveal-worthy feel.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.