My Ten Ways to Maximise Small Hallways is ideal for anyone with a compact entrance to their home. Although I live in a spacious two-bedroom apartment, the hallway is not big. At first, I felt disappointed, but after some clever space-saving ideas, I now love it. I’ll share my ten ways to maximise small hallways with you.
Otto Luggage Coat Rack with Mirror (search product code: OTTO-LUGGAGE-RACKS-WITH-MIRROR), £319 from Graham & Green
My Ten Ways to Maximise Small Hallways
1. Start by decluttering your hallway contents. Because you have limited space, reduce the number of coats, shoes and bags. I only keep seasonal coats in my hallway and limit those to a few items. Likewise, I only fill the wall-hung shoe rack with seasonal shoes and trainers and keep the rest in my bedroom. Ideally, your hallway should have grab-and-go coats, shoes and bags that you will actually use and are correct for the time of year.
Nabiel Hallway Storage Unit With Mirror (search product code: STONAB002BLK-UK), £99 from Made.com UK
2. Secondly, select a design style for your hallway because it will help you to focus. You may want to keep the décor light and neutral with a Scandi theme. For a relaxed vibe, you may prefer to go boho with natural materials and wall hangings. If you live in a period property, you can consider paying homage to the era. When you’ve made a decision, you can decorate accordingly. Stay on track with the style when choosing your storage furniture and fittings.
3. The paint colour is important in a small hallway. If in doubt, I’d recommend painting the ceiling and walls a brilliant white or neutral colour that coordinates well with an oak wood floor. However, if you have a period property with an original tile floor, you may choose a heritage colour. If you opt for a dark shade, it’s important to add a mirror to reflect any natural light source you have. Nothing is stopping you from going totally overboard in the hallway if that’s what you want. Perhaps you want to put up tropical wallpaper; as long as you love it, that’s the main thing.
Nayla Leather Mirror (search product code: 45114689AA), £168 sale price from Anthropologie (UK)
4. As I’ve mentioned above, mirrors are perfect for placing in a hallway. They help to reflect the natural source into the entrance. Hold the mirror up against different walls during the day to find the optimum position. However, mirrors put at the end of the hallway can slow down the energy flow, according to Feng Shui, so that’s something to be mindful of. Mirrors are also handy for checking your make-up or hair before you step outside into the street. They can add a layer of decorative interest, so a mirror is worth considering.
5. A small space doesn’t mean it has to look boring. Add some interesting artwork. Choose a piece that works proportionally, not too big but not too small, either. Be careful about the depth of the artwork because you don’t want to nudge it as you walk past.
6. Even the smallest hallways have room to hang coats. If you have a tight space, you can hang coat hooks on the back of the front door. Alternatively, purchase coat hooks that you can fold up the hook when it is not in use. A wall-hung coat rack is a great idea because it leaves the floor space unobstructed. Combine a coat rack with a shelf above to provide additional storage space for hats or bags. I’ve seen some cool stools and chairs with a coat rack attached which are clever space-saving ideas.
Umbra Pillar Coat Rack with Stool (search product code: 57080311), £130 from John Lewis & Partners
7. In terms of furniture, think about what you really need and go for functional items that also look fabulous. Narrow wall-hung shoe storage cabinets are best for space-saving. If you have room, perhaps another option is a slim bench with under-seat shoe storage. If you have a radiator in the hallway but no room for a console table, add a small shelf above the radiator.
8. Hall runner rugs can add interest and pattern to your hallway and make it appear longer. A welcome mat is a great idea because it adds a splash of colour and is ideal for placing your wet shoes on until they dry out.
Habitat Daxton 5 Shelf Shoe Storage (search product code: 734/9616), £115 from Argos
9. Hall lighting is important. If you have a high ceiling, you can add interest with a pendant light. If space is at a premium, try downlighters or wall lights instead.
10. Add plants for freshness and interest. If you are tight on space, try hanging macrame plant holders.
You may be interested in reading about more interior ideas and looking at pictures on my Pinterest Boards.
Ten Ways To Maximise Small Hallways Post Credits
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs are from the following online shops/websites: Feature image from Graham and Green, post pictures from Graham and Green, Made.com, Anthropologie (UK), John Lewis & Partners and Argos. If you are unhappy with me using one of your pictures, please contact me.
