After the teaser of the front door knocker, stepping into a house or apartment and having a fabulous entryway can set the tone for the decor of your home.  It gives you an idea of what you can expect for the whole house. It does not matter if you are walking into an old grand foyer or your front door opens right into your living room, creating a entry nook is not only welcoming but functional.

Antlers and Horns for a Coat Rack 

Using horns and antlers in decor is so popular right now (I use a pair of antlers in my half bath to use as a towel rack).  Using them, however, can be a bit tricky.  You have to be careful to find ones that are streamlined and not too full.  If you use chunky ones with lots of points on them, it can look a bit more "country" and less "vintage chic".  Here are some examples of streamlined horns and antlers.

Key Holders - Trophies and Urns

The thing I like best about using trophies and urns is all the texture and height it gives a table.  I love the mix of of the tarnish and most of all....I love that everyone would have their own trophy to hold their items you keep at the door.  I know in my house, my husband likes to keep his iPhone headphones and business card holder with his keys.  It would be so great if he could keep all of that together and separate from my items. 

Bench or Table

It is important to rethink the layout of your space if your front door opens directly into your home without a nook to create a hallway/entryway.  Instead of possibly flanking either side of the door with a bench or a table, they put the table in the center of the space to create a really beautiful focal point. 

Umbrella Stand

Tall ceramics are just perfect for this task.  

But you can use literally anything to hold umbrellas at your front door....

Antique Runner

I really wouldn't spend a lot of money of this piece because it is so likely to get heavy use with mud and rain and snow.  Or if you do decide to get a spectacular piece, make sure to layer a sisal or jute rug under it to bear the brunt of weather.  

Mirror

Big or small, you need a mirror to check your hair and lipstick before you walk out the door.

Light

If you are lucky enough to have windows in your entryway, you could easily get away with some small side lamps to greet you at night.  However, bold bright light in an entryway is such a necessary touch when welcoming folks into your home. 

What are your other favorite vintage/vintage inspired items to include in an entry way?