Are you looking to create a warm welcome in your small hallway? If you are you struggling because you are short on space – read on! There are some essentials tips to know that will maximise the space you have, giving off the illusion of a stylish grand entrance. First impressions truly count, so use our top 5 tips to make a small hallway look bigger.
1. Light and hardwearing
When considering paint choices, light colours are best known for making spaces appear brighter and airier. Painting your trim and wall the same colour is also a great visual trick which draws the eye up and gives the impression of more height as well.
You do, however, need to remember that the entrance hall is a high traffic area where scuffs and marks will be visible. Go for your light paint in a hard-wearing and washable formulation to make it must easier to wipe clean.
Do not feel you have to avoid dark colours completely though. If this suits your style – dark wood or dark walls in contrasting shades look sleek and impactful. Just balance this with a neutral floor to keep the space open, and not feeling oppressive. Finally, remember, wood, stone and tile are the most practical choices for this area, since they are much easier to clean.
2. Lead with a Runner
If you have a narrow entrance, use a bold floor runner to lead the eye down the hallway elongating the space. Play with prints to trick the eye too – vertical stripes on the floor will help lengthen the space, while horizontal stripes will shorten it.
3. Mirrors
Mirrors are the best hack for all small spaces!
Adding mirrors to the walls – opposite a light source in particular – will bounce light around the space making it feel a lot less claustrophobic. Fixing one large mirror to the centre of the hallway will also broaden your visual space.
A stylish mirror is a also a fabulous statement piece. Without a doubt it adds a touch of grandeur to the entrance, plus perfect for a quick hair check on the way out!
4. Essential storage
Maintaining a tidy hallway is also essential to create the illusion of space. Get smart with your storage solutions – using all available space to keep the floors and benches clear.
Use wall hooks for coats rather than a coat stand as it will keep the floors clearer. In addition, have dedicated storage bins by person, or by stuff. Making sure everyone knows where they should dump their gloves or book bags will nurture a collective goal to keep the entrance tidy.
Look for multipurpose and stylish hallway furniture which keep everyday items out of sight too. We love shoe cupboards which also double up as a display shelf for some more attractive features like pictures, candles or lights.
5. The perfect lighting
Most hallways are too small for a free standing lamp, but you can still bring adequate lighting to a space.
Slim wall sconces down a narrow hallway will open it up, and the use of up-lighters around the darkest corners will create more depth. A fabulous chandelier or pendant light will also bring the double impact of brightening up the overall space, as well as being an attractive feature.
We recommend going for warm while light bulbs as the best way to create a comfortable and welcoming environment.
How will you design your hallway to create the best possible entrance to your house? Let us know any additional tips in the comments below!
Leave a Reply