A hall tree is not only an attractive piece of furniture, it is a very practical one. One that does not only do double, but triple or even quadruple-duty. First, it is used as a seat – perfect for putting on and taking off boots or shoes. Second, you can hook coats or hats on it. Third, you can store boots and shoes in the bottom. And it serves as a mirror, though not all models have one incorporated in their design.
I found these two examples – both of which would work nicely in my entrance:
Mini hall tree storage benches pictured:
Left: Oxford Hall Tree by Home Decorators Collection
Right: Artisan Hall Tree With Storage by Home Decorators Collection, light oak
The standard hall-tree benches are fairly wide, but now there are versions available there are very narrow.