Summer’s here! There’s something about this season that makes me want to freshen up every corner of the house, starting right at the front door.
The entryway sets the tone. It’s the first thing guests see. And for me? It’s where I want to feel all the summer vibes as soon as I walk in.
Over time, I’ve found a few go-to ideas that instantly make the space feel bright, warm, and oh-so-summery. Let’s dive in.
Citrus Garland
Drape a faux lemon garland over the mirror in your entryway for a summery pop of color. It adds such a cheerful pop of color and gives the space a fresh, zesty vibe. You can use oranges too, or mix both for that full citrus feel.
Tip: If you’re into DIY, grab some faux lemons, greenery, and floral wire. Wrap it together and you’ve got yourself a custom summer garland.
Bold, Colorful Console Table
If there’s one piece that can instantly change the vibe of your outdoor entry, it’s a bold console table. Picture this: a sunshine-yellow table against your front porch wall, or maybe a turquoise one that pops against crisp white siding. It doesn’t just bring color—it brings energy.
Set it up with a few potted plants, a lantern or two, and maybe a cute little tray for keys or mail.
Mini Welcome Chalkboard
This one is simple but cute. I keep a little chalkboard on the console table and write fun messages on it every week. It’s a tiny touch, but it always makes people smile.
It’s also great for seasonal quotes, countdowns, or even little notes to the fam.
Shell or Coral Accents
I’m not near a beach, but my entryway doesn’t need to know that. A few coral pieces and shells in a pretty bowl instantly bring in those vacation vibes.
I mix real ones from past trips with a few faux ones I found at a local craft store. It looks coastal without going full beach theme.
Mirror with a Coastal Frame
A mirror with a distressed wood or woven frame adds texture and that “just got back from the beach” energy. Plus, it reflects more light—always a win for smaller entryways like mine.
Look for one in light wood, whitewash, or soft gray tones to keep things airy.
Floral Entry Table Arrangement
Fresh flowers are an instant mood boost. I love using sunflowers or wildflowers in a mason jar.
It adds that laid-back, summer-field feel. And it smells amazing too.
Hack: Trader Joe’s always has gorgeous, affordable blooms. I pick up a bunch whenever I do a grocery run.
Pastel Wall Art or Prints
Switching out wall art is one of my favorite tricks. I like to use printable watercolor art or quotes in soft pinks, blues, or yellows. It’s such a quick way to change the vibe without spending a fortune.
You can even frame your own photos from past beach trips or summer adventures.
Brightly Colored Entry Rug
Swapping out a dark or neutral rug for something bold instantly brightens up the space. Right now I have one in coral and turquoise and it makes me happy every time I see it.
Tip: Go for something washable—because summer brings sandals, dirt, and the occasional popsicle drip.
Tropical Leaf Wallpaper Accent
This one’s bold, but fun. I used peel-and-stick wallpaper with palm leaves on one wall, and wow—what a difference. It totally transformed the space. Light, playful, and full of character. And if I ever want to take it down? It peels right off. No commitment needed.
Raffia or Jute Mirror Frame
If you’re into coastal or beachy looks, go for natural textures. A mirror with a raffia or jute frame is the perfect touch. It pairs beautifully with plants, baskets, or light wood furniture.
Adds warmth and just enough summer texture. Learn how to make your own raffia mirror on the Dossier Blog
Stack of colorful coffee table books
This one’s subtle but cute. I found these stack of Faux books from amazon in bold and stunning colors and I was immediately obsessed. The colors are so lovely and perfect for adding a pop of color to your console table.
It also makes your entry feel more personal, like a little peek into your summer state of mind.
Clear Glass Vases with Sand and Shells
I filled a couple of tall glass vases with craft sand and small shells, then tied twine around the tops. Instant coastal charm. They sit on my entry bench and always get compliments.
Tip: Craft sand is neater than real beach sand—and less likely to have mystery bits in it.
Vintage Ladder with Hanging Baskets
I leaned a small wooden ladder against the wall and added a couple of woven baskets. They hold rolled towels, flip-flops, or even faux greenery. It’s unexpected but so fun.
You can usually find a ladder like this at thrift shops or flea markets.
Rattan Console Table
I splurged on a rattan console table last summer, and I haven’t looked back. It adds lightness and texture, and it works with basically every summer accent I throw on it. If you’re updating furniture, this is a great place to start.
Pressed Flower Art
One afternoon, I picked flowers from my backyard, pressed them in a book for a week, and framed them. It turned out so pretty. I love using this kind of DIY decor—it feels meaningful and adds a handmade touch.
You can also use store-bought pressed flowers if you want a shortcut.
Bright Colored Storage Bins
Storage doesn’t have to be boring. I switched my usual black bins for ones in teal and yellow. They hide shoes and umbrellas but still feel cheery. It’s such an easy upgrade. Look for ones with handles for extra function.
Cane or Woven Entry Bench
A cane bench is a summer staple. It’s lightweight, breathable, and looks amazing with a cushion or throw. I found mine secondhand, gave it a little love, and now it’s one of my favorite pieces.
It’s also the perfect place to toss your bag or sit while tying sandals.
Floral Garland on the Mirror
I wrapped a faux floral garland around my entry mirror and it totally changed the vibe. It’s romantic, summery, and just so pretty. You can get them pre-made or DIY your own with faux flowers and greenery.
And it stays up all season long. Learn how to decorate your mirror from City Girl gone Mom
Woven Tray Catch-All
I always keep a tray on the console for keys, sunglasses, and all the random stuff that ends up by the door. I swapped in a woven one and added a few small shells for a seasonal twist.
Cute and it keeps the clutter at bay.
Lush Ferns in Ceramic Planters
I’m no plant expert, but ferns? I can handle those. They love indirect light and give off that lush, tropical feel. I keep two by the door in matching ceramic pots and they make the whole space feel alive.
Low maintenance, high reward.
Decorating for summer doesn’t mean a total makeover. It’s all about the little swaps. Bright colors, natural textures, floral touches—each one adds up to a space that feels like sunshine.
Try a few of these ideas and see how your entryway transforms. And if you already have a favorite summer decor trick, share it with me—I’m always looking for inspiration.
