Hallways are often overlooked when it comes to decorating and design, but they can play a big role in the overall feel of a home. A dark, cramped hallway can make a home feel unwelcoming, while a bright, open hallway can create a warm and inviting atmosphere. By making a few simple changes, you can turn your hallway from a bland passageway into a warm and welcoming space. Whether it's through the use of lighting, colour, or decor, there are many ways to create a more inviting atmosphere in your hallway.
In this guide, we will explore some tips and tricks for making your hallway more welcoming.
1. Paint the walls a light colour
A light colour on the walls will make the hallway feel bigger and brighter. Avoid dark colours, as they can make the space feel smaller and more closed in. Opt for a neutral colour like Whimbourne white or Purbeck Stone from Farrow & Ball, or a light pastel colour to add a touch of colour without overwhelming the space. You can always build with other bright colours to bring personality to the space once you have a solid neutral base. For example adding bold accessories to shelves or console tables will help liven up a space.
2. Add lighting
A well-lit hallway is a welcoming hallway. Add a ceiling light, spotlights, or even a table lamp to brighten up the space. A dimmer switch can also be added to create a warm, comforting ambiance in the evening.
3. Add plants
Plants can add life to a hallway and make it feel more like a garden, bringing the outside in. Choose small, low-maintenance plants like succulents or snake plants, and place them on a small table or shelf. They would fit perfectly on one of our slim console tables to give the plants the space they need. Not only does our console table look elegant but it is extremely practical acting as a storage solution for your hallway. It offers a home for your keys and an ideal surface to place items on whilst you take your shoes off.
4. Use a statement rug
A statement rug can add colour and texture to a plain hallway. Choose a patterned rug in a neutral colour to add interest without overwhelming the space. For some inspiration on prints and textures we have a gorgeous Scandi Boho textured throw in mustard which helps show you how the blend of colours and textures can look brilliant together.
5. Create a gallery wall
A gallery wall is a great way to add personal touches to a hallway. You can create a gallery wall using frames of different sizes, and fill them with family photos, artwork, or even postcards. Alternatively you can add a solid oak picture ledge to display your photos beautifully. This is perfect for someone who loves the minimal approach. A solid wood shelving option not only adds texture, colour and aesthetic but it looks clean and effortlessly stylish once styled on a wall. There are so many options when it comes to shelving units, whether you love the floating shelf option or want a less contemporary aesthetic like our rustic shelves with industrial brackets, there's a shelf to fit all kinds of home interiors.
6. Add a statement piece of artwork
A large piece of artwork can add interest to a plain hallway and make it feel more like a gallery space. Choose a piece that reflects your personal style and adds a pop of colour to the space or make it personal with a treasured family portrait or favourite past memory.
7. Add storage
A hallway can often be cluttered with shoes, jackets, and other items. Adding a small wooden bench with shoe rack underneath can help keep the space organised and tidy. Our rustic wooden shoe bench is a wonderful addition to any hallway, available in a range of sizes makes it versatile for all family sizes. If you want to keep the floor space as clear as possible then another solution would be a wall mounted coat rack. Our solid oak coat racks come in heritage oak, walnut and in a number of Farrow & Ball colour options making them suitable for any hallway. Whether you want to add a splash of colour or you would prefer to keep it natural, then this is the right product for you.
If you have a larger area in your hallway that could be used more effectively, then a big unit such as a monks bench with storage could be the perfect storage solution for you. A monks bench is a versatile piece of furniture that can be used in a variety of ways, but it is particularly well-suited as a storage solution. These benches are characterised by their long seats with hinged lids that lift up to reveal storage compartments underneath. This design allows for ample storage space without sacrificing style or taking up too much room. Not only can it be a great place to sit but also, it can be used to store shoes, bags, and other items. There are many areas in your house that this product can be suitable for, such as a hallway, living room, or even in the bedroom as a storage solution and a seating option. There is the option to make this a bold statement piece using a bright colour such as Farrow & Ball Stiffkey blue or keep it within a neutral theme by using a softer colour like manor house grey.
It doesn’t have to be a big job when it comes to refreshing your hallway to make it more welcoming. The old saying, "Less is more" is a design philosophy that suggests that simplicity and minimalism can create a more visually pleasing and effective overall design. Declutter the surrounding area. Store away your shoes in a beautiful painted shoe bench. Hang up your coats and jackets using a painted coat rack with shelf. Add a photo gallery, the options are endless. By starting with these ideas, you could make a huge difference and instantly make your hallway more welcoming. It is then up to you to use your creative flare to add the little touches we have suggested to make your house a home.
Our thoughts, a hallway is an often-overlooked area of the home, but it can play a big role in the overall feel of a home. By following these tips, you can make your hallway feel more welcoming and add character to your house. Remember to keep it light and bright, add personal touches, and keep it organised, these tips will make your hallway the perfect place to welcome guests and family.