The first thing you see when you walk through the door, your hallway should make a strong first impression. However, combining functionality with style in a compact space – two key elements of a well-designed entryway – is no easy task.
when Think small hallways While getting it right can be challenging, interior designers use a number of tricks to make these spaces feel bigger and brighter, from clever mirror placement to nailing the lighting design.
Below, we explain how to create the illusion of more space and light in a small hallway, using first-hand advice from experts.
1. Choose built-in storage solutions
Built-in storage Always a good idea, especially if you’re working with a small space. Not only does it make the most of every available inch thanks to its custom-built design, but it can also double as multifunctional furniture like a built-in seating nook.
“Fitted storage can utilize the full height and width available, including awkward corners or shallow wall areas that might otherwise be overlooked,” says Gail Bignell, Head of Design. Sharps.
“By placing more behind closed doors, clearing the floor and reducing the number of objects that interrupt the eye line, the hallway feels wider, less cluttered and much easier to navigate.
With a deep understanding of how people really live, Gail helps shape Sharps’ design direction in bedrooms, home offices and living spaces. Her work focuses on creating fitted furniture that makes better use of space, while feeling natural to the home and the people who live there.
2. Use mirrors to create the illusion of space
It’s amazing what a carefully placed mirror can do for a small hallway, helping to make a compact space appear larger and brighter by reflecting the available light. Try placing a mirror in front of a window, glazed door, or at the end of a hallway and you’ll be amazed by the results.
“When it comes to choosing the best mirror for your hallway space, think about how it can complement other items in the area. If your fixtures and furniture are predominantly straight lines and minimalist design, you can soften and balance hard angles by using a round or oval mirror,” says Melissa Denham, interior design expert. Hammonds Furniture.
“If you want to make more of a statement or just fill up more wall space, a large square or rectangular mirror will do that and reflect a lot of light onto the opposite wall and ceiling.”
Buy mirrors that enhance this space
Available with silver, gold or black trim, this handcrafted mirror will add a touch of Scandi style to your hallway.
Steal the look above by adding this modern round mirror to your entryway.
With over two decades of experience designing and delivering interior projects, Melissa creates stunning interiors for residential projects as well as events, workspaces and showroom staging. She helps clients create a vision of a dream space through her interior design expertise and creative eye.
3. Get your hallway lighting right
Melissa Denham explains that the darker your hallway, the more confined it will feel. With that in mind, implement the strategy well Consider hallway lighting It should be at the top of your priority list when it comes to brightening up a fuzzy-feeling entryway.
“If your hallway has a low ceiling, stay away from pendant lighting. It can bring the ceiling down and make your space feel cramped. The same goes for spotlights. Having one light in the middle of your hallway creates a pool of light that’s ineffective at illuminating your entire space,” says Melissa.
“Instead, try spotlights that are scattered across your ceiling or especially in the corners. By illuminating the corners of your room, you’ll spread the focus and make it look bigger.”
Victorian plumbing
Satin brass spotlights
Illuminate your hallway with these beautiful satin brass spotlights, pre-fitted with dimmable, fire-rated LEDs.
4. Use understair storage to your advantage
Hallways can quickly become dumping grounds for boots, bags and coats, making small spaces feel cramped and claustrophobic. where it is Collection below Comes in handy – it’s the perfect hiding place to hide everyday clutter.
“Consider hallway storage Small spaces come into their own when you consider what other hidden or unused space is available. For example, if you have an empty space under your stairs, this could be the place to install built-in storage cupboards to help free up valuable hallway space,” says Melissa Denham.
“You can tailor the fixtures and fittings to keep everything you need within reach of your entryway. The higher part of your downstairs staircase is perfect for a coat rail, while the lower sections can be a good place for things like paper, stationery or a printer.”
5. Choose your flooring carefully to maximize space
As one of the most used areas of the home, hardware Hallway flooring – As such LVT or porcelain tiles – are non-negotiable. Practicality aside, Melissa Denham recommends choosing light-colored designs to make a space feel more spacious.
“If you choose a hardwood floor, your best bet is to choose wide planks over narrow strips. The theory behind this is that larger components mean fewer joins to the floor, making it look less busy,” she says. The same principle applies to tiles.
“Adding a narrow floor runner down the middle of a narrow corridor is an interior hack that can also give the illusion of a long, wide space. It’s even better if you extend the runner up the stairs to continue and further extend the length of the hallway.”
Choose hallway flooring
Victorian plumbing
Porcelain tiles
Made from durable porcelain, these patterned tiles will add brightness and visual interest to any small hallway.
This handwoven rug can be used as a stair runner or hallway carpet and can be custom made to size.
By trying these space-enhancing design tricks, you’ll soon discover that you don’t need a lot of space to create a practical and stylish hallway.
For more entry ideas, browse through these Hallway decor ideas Or learn how to perfect your Hallway design.
