So, what are the best ways to make your small hallway more welcoming? Below, interior design expert Sylvia James at HomeHow.co.uk explains all the things you can do to transform your small hallway into a welcoming retreat. Read on to learn everything you need to know to achieve this goal…

Consider Your Flooring Choices

When you are working on the décor for your small hallway, it is important that you consider what your chosen flooring will bring to the space. You will want your hallway to appear as bright as possible. So, choosing a light-coloured flooring is best.

Parquet flooring is one of the best types of flooring for a small hallway, as this type of design can help to make the space seem wider. You can pair parquet flooring with light-coloured wood – this is the perfect combination for a small hallway.

If you use real wood, parquet flooring can be quite expensive. However, you can keep the parquet flooring costs down by opting for faux wood parquet flooring.

Light Up The Small Space

Lighting helps you to brighten up your compact hallway. The first thing you need to focus on is the natural light in the room. You want to allow as much natural light to enter the room as possible. You can do this by taking down any dark or heavy window treatments. You can also consider adding a mirror or several mirrors in the room to help reflect the natural light around the room.

If there is not much natural light in the hallway, consider some artificial lighting ideas. Statement chandeliers are a great choice. These provide a sophisticated light source. Also, consider wall lighting and even a table lamp if you have any furniture in your hallway.

Choose a Monochromatic Colour Palette

Choosing cool and confident whites and greys for your hallway is perfect when you’re limited on space. You can create the perfect balance between two neutral colours by adding an equal amount of each colour. This will

help to give your hallway a bright and fresh appearance during the day and a more dramatic appearance at night.

Introduce a bit of character to the room by adding a gallery wall of framed artwork  or photographs. Try to keep the rest of your hallway furniture quite plain if you are looking to achieve an authentic contemporary aesthetic.

Keep The Clutter Away

If you want to create the illusion of more space in your small hallway, it is important that you ensure that you keep as little clutter in the hallway as possible. Make sure you keep the hallway as organised as possible by removing any unnecessary items from the space. This will make your small hallway seem instantly larger and much more welcoming.

Try to keep the space as clear as you possibly can at all times. This is the best way to ensure your room seem more spacious. Think about various storage solutions that could help keep the clutter away. Shoe storage is a great idea as this will help prevent the footwear from accumulating.

Maximise Storage Solutions

Utilise the vertical space in your hallway with built-in shelves. These can be customised to fit your specific needs and storage requirements. Consider adding shelves at different heights to accommodate items of various sizes.

A hall tree is a classic solution for storing coats, hats, and shoes in a compact space. Choose one that fits your hallway’s dimensions and style. You can also opt for a hall tree with built-in storage for additional functionality.

Over-the-door organisers are also great for additional storage. This simple and affordable option can provide additional storage for shoes, scarves, and accessories. Choose an organiser with multiple pockets or compartments to maximise the storage space.

Create a Focal Point With Wall Paint

When decorating your small hallway, it’s a good idea to create a focal point with paints. Consider choosing one area to draw the eye. This will create less emphasis on the compactness of the room.

Try to ensure your ceiling is painted a lighter colour than your wall, despite what colour you choose. This will make your ceiling feel much higher and will also help to make a narrower hallway feel much roomier.

Think About Scaling

It is important that you choose furniture pieces that are properly proportioned to the size of the hallway. If you choose furniture pieces that are too oversized, this will make you hallway appear much narrower.

If you choose furniture that is the same colour as the walls, they will blend in much better, helping your hallway appear wider than it actually is.

Another great trick is to arrange your furniture at an angle, as this will help to create a sense of depth in the space. If the furniture is all placed up against the walls, this may make it appear more like a bowling alley than a well-proportioned hallway.

Add a Touch of Greenery

Bring the nature indoors with a small houseplant. A money tree, snake plant, or peace lily are all great options for a small hallway. Choose plants that are low-maintenance and can tolerate low-light conditions.

If you don’t have floor space, consider using wall-mounted planters to display your plants. This is a great way to add greenery to your hallway without taking up valuable floor space.

Create a Seating Area

Consider adding a bench to the space if you can. Even a small bench can provide a place to sit and take off your shoes. Choose a bench with built-in storage for added functionality. Consider adding a cushion or throw blanket for extra comfort.

A stylish stool can also serve as a place to sit or rest items. Choose a stool that complements your hallway’s decor and fits the available space.

Add Some Personal Touches

Hang a piece of artwork or a gallery wall to add personality to your hallway. Choose artwork that reflects your personal style and interests. A mirror can make your hallway feel larger and brighter. Consider hanging a large mirror on a blank wall to create a focal point.

Display family photos to create a welcoming and personal atmosphere. Arrange the photos on a gallery wall or use a photo frame to showcase your favourite memories.

Final Thoughts

With a little creativity and these handy tips, you can transform your small hallway from a cramped afterthought into a warm and inviting space. Remember, the key lies in maximising storage, embracing light and openness, and adding personal touches that reflect your style. Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with the process. After all, a welcoming hallway sets the tone for your entire home, so make it a space you’ll love coming home to.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR…

SYLVIA JAMES: Sylvia James has worked as an interior design expert for over 15 years. Sylvia is skilled at creating beautiful home designs and can work with a range of budgets to suit the homeowner. In addition, Sylvia also provides expert interior design tips and advice for HomeHow.co.uk, and her tips have been published in a range of leading press publications.