The weather is cool, mornings are damp, and the trees are turning to majestic reds and magnificent yellows – autumn has arrived. It’s a great time of year to be outdoors, but unlike summer, you have to prepare for it. That means boots, coats, hats, scarves, a pair of gloves, occasionally even an umbrella – if you live in Canada, you know the drill. And autumn is only the beginning, the colder the weather gets, the more layers we pile on. The problem, that we inevitably face, is where to keep all of that stuff. The colder months can wreak havoc on our front hallways, so our designers at Smitty’s have come up with some great ideas to help you stay organized and clutter-free as winter approaches.

EACH TO THEIR OWN

Have you ever considered a chest of drawers in your front hallway? A beautiful chest of drawers offers both elegance and practicality. We suggest giving each family member their own drawer to keep track of their own things – whether keys, wallets, or winter gear – this is a simple way to minimize clutter and stay organized.

The Soma Junior Chest by Durham Furniture is a gorgeous option. Made from solid Canadian maple and inspired by San Francisco’s South of Market district, where warehouse chic is de rigueur, the Soma Junior Chest is the perfect solution for your front hall. Bigger family? Need more drawers? Try the Soma 6 Drawer Chest. As with all Durham Furniture, you choose your custom finish.

Soma Junior Chest

TAKE A SEAT

The best front hallways offer a seat – a place to put your shoes on or take them off, to set your bag down when you first walk in the door – a place to accommodate some of the most basic things we do every single day. 

If you love warehouse chic, try Amisco’s Upright Bench. Its steel base and wood top create a modern industrial look that is stylish, sturdy, and perhaps best of all, easy to clean. You can customize your bench by choosing your favourite colour of metal and wood finish.

Amisco’s Upright Bench

MIRROR MIRROR

A mirror will open a space up and create light, and of course, gives you the chance to take one last peek before you walk out the door. Take a look at Durham Furniture’s simple and stylish options. Do you prefer round or square?

A RUG KEEPS IT COZY

Rugs provide color, texture, and warmth and will make your house feel cozy the moment you step through the door. When choosing a rug for your front hall, consider the size of the space and the placement of the rug - will your front door open and close easily with the rug in place? Also, think about a material that will endure the weather, and of course, keep your budget in mind. Kalora and Surya offer some of our favourite designs at affordable prices. Visit one of our showrooms in Hanover or Kitchener to go through our catalogue of rug swatches.

For more ideas and styles, set up a meeting to consult with one of our professional decorators.