5 Entry Upgrades That'll Welcome Your Holiday Guests Before They Even Get Inside

This Old House Magazine



Make a great first impression with easy exterior enhancements that'll warm up the look of your home and boost curb appeal. --Tabitha Sukhai, thisoldhouse.com

SHOWN: Create the Craftsman-Style Holiday Entry shown above

Upgrade Front-Door Hardware

Making a memorable first impression is tough if your front door has ho-hum hardware. Update your entry with a bold new door handle, escutcheon, kickplate, and knocker. Here's how to Install New Front-Door Hardware




RELATED: All About Entry Sets


Rewire a Vintage Entry Lantern

Hung in a front entry or a cozy corner indoors, these pendant-style fixtures cast a soft ambient light that's both charming and inviting. Just because an old salvage find isn't in working order doesn't mean you should leave it at the yard. With How to Rewire a Vintage Entry Lantern, we'll show you how you can get the glow back in a few easy steps.




RELATED: How to Install Pathway Lights


Add a Creative DIY Wreath

Decorate any doorway with a unique take on this classic holiday staple. Use your favorite heirloom ornaments (as shown) or dried herbs, ribbon remnants, pine cones, and more Creative Ideas for DIY Wreaths.




RELATED: 12 Smart Ways to Store Decorations


Add Charming Doormats and Entry Sconces

Make your home's architecture really shine with our top picks for the best lanterns to flank your doorway. See Stunning Entry Sconces for all 21 of our handpicked options.

Another detail worth tending to: the welcome mat. We've gathered 19 of the most charming options in Distinctive Doormats, where you'll find iron, rubber, vinyl, and coir dirt-grabbers to suit your style and budget.


RELATED: Enhance Your Home's Curb Appeal


Do a Quick, Complete Overhaul


Got a day to do some work? If you want to really revamp your entire entry, you can install a new door, complete with exterior trim and a storm door in just a few hours. Here's the complete step-by-step guide to Spruce-Up Your Entry.





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