Creating an entryway from scratch might seem impossible in an apartment without one, but TikTok creator @mycityapartment proved otherwise with her transformation, which is inspiring renters everywhere. Her viral video showcases how thoughtful, creative problem-solving can create a welcoming entrance space that feels intentional and polished. The best part? These solutions work for any apartment layout, making it a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their home’s first impression.

@mycityapartment

The entry so far!! Next up: coat hooks, rug, mirror 😍 Who else doesn’t have a separate entry in their apartment? It’s very common in these NYC apartments, a lot of the time the front door is in the kitchen! #nycapartment #entryway #newhome

♬ original sound – nicole

The magic starts with a curated ‘catchall’ table by the door—not just any surface, but a vintage piece that serves as the heart of this makeshift entryway. This addition creates a designated drop zone for daily essentials, preventing the usual chaos of keys, mail, and phones scattered throughout the living space. But what truly sets this transformation apart is the use of vertical space. The creator took a standard coat closet, reimagined it as a tool storage solution for her partner, and then elevated the entire area with an unexpected design element: peel-and-stick stained glass film installed above the closet, creating the illusion of a charming window where there was once just blank wall space.

The real game-changer in this entryway makeover comes from brass hooks she sourced from Etsy. Mounted at just the right height, these elements do more than hold coats and bags—they transform a simple wall into an organized, aesthetically pleasing feature that looks intentionally designed rather than hastily added. The combination of these elements—the catchall table, faux window treatment, and brass hardware—works together to create an entrance space that feels both functional and chic in NYC.