Make an entrance: They say first impressions are the best. And for a house that would be the hallway

NT Features

The entryways or the hallways are transitional spaces from the outdoors to the entry of your homes. These are tricky spaces to design and get creative with. It’s usually not large enough to fit a full scheme of furniture or accessories, yet still has a lot of design and décor potential.

It doesn’t matter if you live in a city apartment or a spacious place in the suburbs, the entryway is often one of the most underutilised rooms in a home either way. Adding a bit of style and some decorative ideas to this small space can make it appealing. Any hallway, no matter the size, can be beautiful. To help you in that endeavour there are smart ways from paint and plants to everything in between, you’re bound to find an idea here that can work for your space.

A super spacious hallway could probably have room for a bench, a console table, a vintage dresser or large sconces. On the contrary, if your hall is on the narrow side, it’s best to keep it simple. Wall mounted lighting would not be the best option, instead- opt for flush mount ceiling fixtures and an interesting floor or wall treatment. An entryway is something more functional than just a traffic path.

Mirror magic
If you want to fake your way into a more spacious hallway, a reflective surface like a mirror at the end of a narrow hallway will make a typically dark space feel lighter and larger. Adding a small, circular mirror to your mix can make a sculptural statement without overwhelming the rest of the space.

Style with shiplap
Covering your hall walls in shiplap makes the space look more important and special, but adding durability. An addon shiplap to the walls is a cool way to make the hallway feel like an extension of the design of the house. It is a practical, pretty, and space-efficient way to pack on a style. Versatility makes shiplap a good match in a variety of interior designs. Smooth shiplap walls have become popular in a variety of homes.

Lighting it right
Giving it a slim entry by choosing your light fixtures with care adds a visual interest while also setting the tone. Sconces-shaped lighting can offer ambient lighting, which is much more inviting and adds glamour. You can also add a single statement pendant to your foyer or hanging rattan pendant lamps lend the formal-looking hallway a cool, coastal edge.

A mini-museum
Create an unassuming entry into a museum-worthy masterpiece by creating a gallery wall. Adding artworks in this small space can make the passageway inspirational. One would love to see a hallway display, full of collections of art. A gallery wall in a more eclectic home may consist of a greater variety of hues. Think about your personal aesthetic and preferences and feel free to mix and match frames, using both horizontal and portrait orientations. Be more realistic about the pieces that should take centre stage in your home.

Round up the rugs
Give your hallway some appeal underfoot with a great rug. While a single runner will pack a punch, vintage rugs can also offer some visual interest. Using similar colour palettes can keep the look cohesive. Even if you don’t have a lot of room for furniture, you can certainly pull off a small rug. Using a rug or runner can be the easiest way to impress your visitors. Rugs add colour, pattern, and create a comfy, cosy feeling. And if you have hardwood floors it will add extra drama. Rugs also protect your floors from wear and tear and we all know the hallway receives plenty of traffic.

Pops of colour
Sometimes a little bit of colour can add new dimensions into the hallways. Instead of using one pop shade, consider creating a cool, ombre effect with multiple hues. It will draw the eye up. Painting the ceiling is a fun way to add dimension into a hallway. A hallway will actually want you to stay in and look around—and not just pass through.

Artefacts
If you have a few extra hats and bags on hand, use them to style your entry. Not only will this option add some texture to your walls, but you will also be less likely to leave without these key pieces as you head outdoors. Depending on the size of your hallway and the type of furniture already in place, an abstract or traditional sculpture can truly bring the space together. From wood to mixed-media sculptures, the choice is indeed a vast one. Other options include glass, paper mache and clay.

When it comes to hallway designs, it’s all about thinking outside the box. Keep it true to your home’s architecture. Your personal aesthetic, and creativity can add a touch of class to it and you will be happy you did.