Hallways: How to Maximise the Space & Set The Tone

When designing a house, it can be easy to focus on big spaces such as the kitchen and bathroom or even the master bedroom. However, this kind of thinking often leads to one big oversight- the hallway.

The hallway has a sense of understated importance to the home. Every time you enter or exit your home, you will pass through the hallway. For guests, the hallway is their first impression of your home’s interior. As they say, first impressions are everything, so make it count!

By viewing hallways through a different lens, you can see how many possibilities there are to transform this space into something eye-catching. Whether opting for additional storage space or an art gallery of sorts, it’s easy to completely transform your hallway.

4 ways to transform your hallway

Designing a house is an all-consuming endeavour. There are elements of orientation, design and layout to consider in order to maximise the rare commodity of space. However, in most houses, there is a lot of dead space, especially around the hallway area.

In order to maximise space in your home, consider transforming the hallway area. Make use of spaces under the stairs and on either side of the front door. This way, you can create a real entrance piece that will, in turn, make people want to venture further into your home.

1. Storage

Oftentimes the hallway is full of shoes, coats and bags. While this may be the case due to a lack of storage options, this kind of mess is significantly hindering the first impression your home gives to visitors.

To maximise space and aesthetics, create storage space in the hallway. This can be done by installing free-standing shelving with storage baskets. You can even create a storage area if you have space under the stairs. Simple things like hooks on the walls are also beneficial.

2. Art gallery

Long hallways lend themselves to an at-home art gallery. You can choose to hang a variety of paintings that range in size, colour and texture. Not only does this set the tone for your home and create a sense of drama, but you're also utilising space that would typically be left bare.

3. Display area

In a modern space, homeowners must account for everything from spare bedrooms to office spaces. This often means that prized possessions such as a book or record collection are left to gather dust in the cupboard.

By installing shelving along the hallway walls to hold things like records and books, you are making use of space to put your prized possessions on display. Importantly, you are injecting a sense of personality straight into the entrance of your home.

4. Reading nook

With so much going on in life it can be nice to have a dedicated space just to relax and take in the view. If your hallway has a particularly nice outlook, consider placing a chair next to the window. Or, if there is space under the stairs, consider creating a cosy reading nook.

4 tips for accessorising a hallway

When it comes to utilising the traditionally dead space around a home’s hallway, the options are endless. However, to execute these design ideas, it’s important to pay attention to stylistic tips, otherwise, your hallway might be a bit too much to take in.

1. Colour coordinate

As the hallway is an extension of the home, you need to decorate accordingly. This means using the same colour palette for walls and furniture as you have in the rest of the home. At the very least, it’s wise to try and pick a colour that is complementary to the rest of the home.

2. Opt for a rug

A rug is a great accessory for a hallway. It softens the overall area and provides yet another avenue for you to showcase your personality. By placing inviting textures on the ground, it instantly gives the home a sense of warmth.

3. Choose a light feature

Hallways that haven’t been properly accounted for can sometimes feel cold and dark. By installing a light fixture, you now have a focal point in the room that exudes warmth and light. Above all else, it shows that your hallway is a real part of the home, not just an afterthought.

4. Minimise clutter

Walking into a hallway full of clutter can feel quite overwhelming. To strike a balance between displaying character and keeping things minimal, consider displaying a sequence of meaningful photos that all match but yet don’t impinge on the hallway’s space and overall feel.

Creating an excellent entrance

Characterised by long and narrow walls and dead space under the stairs, it’s easy to simply paint a hallway and walk away. However, such blandness actually detracts from the feel and overall tone of your home.

To ensure that your home is complete from top to bottom, consider using different techniques to transform your hallway. Start the process by asking yourself whether you need storage space or a place to kick your feet up.

By finding a purpose for your hallway, you are actively creating a warm and inviting area that utilises space efficiently and effectively. More importantly, you are also creating a space that sets the tone for the rest of your home.