Hallway ideas
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.
Carousel
Welcome mats
Doormats or welcome mats can be aesthetic and functional at the same time. They help keep mud from being tracked into the house, and keep the hallway clean. They also tie the space together if your hallway is too small for a runner.
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.
Carousel
Hallway runners
Runners are a great way to dress up your hallway and make it cozy and inviting. They also protect your floors from scuffing and dirt.
Hallway mirrors
A mirror in the hallway can create the illusion of space and gives you a chance to do a quick outfit check before you leave the house.
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.
Coat hooks and stands
Keep your hallway looking clutter-free with a smart set of hooks or a coat stand. Bags, keys, scarves, coats - get yourself a stand that does it all.
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.
Carousel
Home fragrance
Let yourself be greeted by the comforting scent of home every time you enter the front door. Take your pick from diffusers, sprays and more.
Wall art and prints
Pepper in personality and a pop of colour to your hallway with wall art for a picture-perfect entrance to your home.
Vases
A statement vase paired with a striking arrangement of fresh or dried flowers can elevate your hallway. Find the right one to charm your guests and yourself.
Artificial plants
Faux or fake plants are a convenient decor option if live indoor plants are not your thing. Choose from a wide variety of plants, flowers, and arrangements.
Lighting
From statement pendants to ceiling lights- give your hallway the 'glow' up it deserves.
Shelves
Hallway too tight to fit a cabinet or console? Wall mounted shelves might be just the thing for you.
Top hallway picks
Slider Grid
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.
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.
Carousel
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.
Discover more inspiration
Carousel
Storage ideas
No matter what you need to store, we've got a shelf, cabinet, or box for it.
Lighting ideas
Find the perfect lighting solutions to make your home shine as warmly as your personality.
Living room ideas
Looking for the perfect sofa to sink into? Or perhaps a new coffee table? We've got you covered.
