Hallway ideas
By Zara Flynn | Last edited: October 2026
8 ways to create a welcoming hallway
The hallway is more than just the spot where visitors get their first impression of your house. It's how your home greets a guest and welcomes you at the end of a long day out in the world. Here are some ideas to make this space as inviting as possible.
Hallway shoe storage
Give clutter the boot by adding a shoe rack or shoe cabinet to your hallway. Shoe racks typically have an open design that helps shoes air out after use, while cabinets keep shoes concealed for a tidy look. Choose a storage option that meets your specific needs.
Hallway shoe benches
A shoe bench stores your shoes out of sight and doubles as a place to sit as you wriggle into or out of your footwear. But if you're strapped for space in a small hallway, an ottoman may be the solution you're looking for.
Hallway storage solutions
Get the most out of your hallway by adding a console table or cabinets to maximise surface area and storage space. You could also add trinket trays to hold small, everyday items as you come and go like keys, chargers and more.
Hallway lighting
Pick the perfect table lamp to pair with your hallway console or cabinets, for an added touch of warmth. You could also opt for a floor lamp to complement a coat rack for balance.
Accessorise your hallway
There's more to your hallway than just furniture. Here are some ideas for little ways to dress up the space with accessories.
Top hallway picks
Slider Grid
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More hallway storage
An often overlooked aspect of putting together your dream hallway is the need for smaller storage options. Look beyond the usual cabinets and consoles, and explore bite-sized options like boxes and baskets to maximise convenience without compromising on aesthetics.
Boxes and baskets
Decorative baskets, boxes and cubes are a fun way to keep your home organised and clutter free. Especially in relatively narrow spaces like a hallway. Find the perfect choice to help you stow what you don't want to show.
- Shop boxes and baskets
Decorating your hallway
As one of the busiest areas of the home, a hallway can quickly start looking tired. Adding some fresh colour or wallpaper can bring it back to life and make it that much more inviting.
Hallway colour schemes
Explore a range of colour options in matte, gloss and satin finishes to give your hallway the colour and elegance it deserves. Think accent walls or even an accent ceiling. Set yourself up for a hallway DIY weekend with all the painting equipment you need including brushes, rollers and more.
Hallway wallpaper
If painting your hallway isn't the project you're looking for right now, wallpaper is a quicker way to pull off a total makeover. Play around with textures, florals, panels and more to find what truly matches your home and your style. And when you've found the perfect match, remember to grab the right wallpaper accessories to see you through the job.
FAQs about hallway décor
How can I make a narrow hallway look wider?
Go for light, neutral colours on the walls - this helps reflect any artificial or natural light your hallway gets and makes the space feel roomier. You could add a large mirror on one wall, and avoid bulky furniture. Slim console tables or wall-mounted shelves and hooks can help open up the area. Explore this detailed guide for more clever tips and tricks to create the illusion of space.
Should I get wall lights or ceiling lights for my hallway?
Ceiling lights are great for practical purposes and providing maximum illumination. They can also help make a narrow or short hallway feel a bit more spacious. Wall lights and floor lamps however, can be both practical and beautiful, lending warmth to the space and making your hallway feel inviting.
Can I use warm lighting in a small hallway?
While warm lighting can sometimes tighten a space, it can actulally make your hallway shine by giving it an air of cosiness. The trick is to pair your warm lighting with lighter wall colours to avoid making the space feel boxy and closed in.
What are some budget-friendly hallway improvements?
A fresh coat of paint is typically the quickest and most affordable way to transform a hallway. But you could also start out small by making simple changes like updating a light fixture or two, adding wall hooks and wall art, or even getting a new welcome mat or runner.
How can I reduce noise in a hallway?
Hallways tend to be high traffic areas in a home, and they can get loud. The key to a quieter space is soft furnishings like runners, wall panelling, and cushioned shoe benches.
