Small entrance halls


10 tips to make an entryway look bigger |

(Image credit: Davide Lovatti / Future)

Small hallway ideas are often overlooked, despite setting the decorative tone for the rest of your home. But a combination of practical storage and design know-how can turn this traditionally transitional space into a welcoming place to linger, no matter the size.

Think of your hallway as a room in its own right and not just as an interim space. Once you’ve made the most of its natural features, consider how to personalize it from a decorative point of view with the best hallway ideas and decorative tips for small spaces.

Hallways are where first impressions are made and the scene is set for what lies beyond. It’s important to appreciate the significance these spaces give to the overall feel of a home, so do remember that first impressions count.

1. Consider scale, light and color in a small hallway

(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)

Remember that lighter colors give the appearance of more space – ideal for small or narrow hallway ideas – while darker tones will bring the room in, resulting in a cozier, more intimate feeling that can help you play with proportions.

‘Hard-wearing paints or tough, wipeable wall covering are best for particularly busy areas,' advises Claire Vallis, design director of the Harlequin Design Group . ‘This is more important in family homes.’ 

2. Decorate with your favorite color

(Image credit: Future / Sarah Maingot)

Give this often-overlooked small hallway ideas a little bit of love with the addition of color.

Here, saturated shades of cobalt, malachite and verdigris combine with botanical motifs to bring natural depth and earthiness. A low-hung pendant is a great way to add emphasis to the furniture below.

‘When introducing color, it’s best to avoid too many different shades; the choice of one hue for wall and floor treatments can be very effective,’ advises interior designer Tara Bernerd . 

3. Tone it down and opt for sophistication 

(Image credit: Ted Todd)

If you love idea of painting your woodwork in a color, just not as bright as above, you can opt for darker hallway paint ideas like this navy. It still creates a bold design feature in your hall as Robert Walsh, founder and owner of Ted Todd Fine Wood Floors explains:

‘Hallways should be just as beautiful as any other room and should take you on a journey through the home. To keep the hallway light and airy, choosing a paler wood floor will not only bring the great outdoors in, but will keep the space feeling bright. Introducing a pattern such as a chevron or herringbone will help to draw your eye through the space making it feel bigger, too. 

'What's more, lighter floors offer a contemporary feel and will add a subtle statement allowing you to use bolder color elsewhere – why not opt for dark blue, gray or green for your doors, frames and other woodwork to add contrast and balance to the space?’

4. Add a standout pattern for impact

(Image credit: Future / Catherine Gratwicke)

Pack a punch with a well-chosen stair runner that reflects your personality. 

Areas of the home that that we pass through rather than live in, such as a cloakroom or hallway, can be the perfect opportunity for the more tame among us to try out bolder trends. Setting a print carpet against a backdrop of low-key décor can also have a rather pretty, boho look, as seen here. 

Everything else in this hallway scheme has been left neutral so that the carpet is the focus as you walk into the house. This is a look that's effective, but simple to achieve, as it doesn't involve elaborate decorating everywhere else. 

It's worth noting that the stairs have been painted white, compared with the dark-wood floors, to let the pattern stand out.

5. Decorate with an accent color for impact

(Image credit: Little Greene)

Small hallway ideas needn’t be dull; in fact, they can be quite the opposite. But that doesn’t mean they need to be full of bright colors. 

We love the contrast here between the hallway storage ideas, painted in Little Greene’s Dark Brunswick Green, and the use of Portland Stone Light on the walls and Portland Stone on the dado rail, door and trim. Don't forget to organize your hallway closet so it looks as good on the inside too.

The green here is enough to create a statement, but when balanced with the neutrals, including the terracotta tiles and coir runner, it works perfectly as a strong accent shade.

(Image credit: KDLoves)

‘A hallway is the first part of your home that anyone will see when they enter, so it's important to make sure it's a true reflection of your personality and style,’ explains Emma Deterding, founder and creative director of Kelling Designs .

‘To keep a brighter feel, opt for neutral tones on the walls ,as they'll keep the small hall fresh, and use a large mirror to help reflect light whilst giving the illusion of space. 

'A console table will not only allow you to display personal touches and prized possessions, but will also be practical to drop bags, keys and mail as you go in and out of the house. 

'Here, a pair of matching table lamps help to create entry table decor ideas with symmetry and balance. Opting for lampshades and upholstery in bright colors and bold patterns will allow you to bring your personality into the space, whilst setting the mood for the rest of your home.

7. Lead the eye with a runner

(Image credit: Future / Catherine Gratwicke)

Whatever the size of your entrance hall, there is always a way to make an impact. 

Traditional hallways in period homes are often narrow, so look at ways of deceiving the eye. Consider using a floor runner to lead the eye towards a vista and try leaving internal doors leading off of the hall open to increase a sense of space. 

Small hallway ideas also offer the opportunity to be brave with color, particularly with soft furnishings that can be easily changed. Here, an eye-catching runner and wall decor ideas lend vibrancy without overwhelming.

8. Create interest with objects

(Image credit: Future / Tom Leighton)

Set the tone the moment you walk through the door with a strong symmetrical arrangement, such as this collection of woven African baskets displayed on a French bistro table. 

The earthy colors of the baskets harmonize with the frames of the botanical prints and the amber-colored walls; statement hallway lighting ideas in the form of a modern chandelier complete the effect.

9. Use architectural details to your advantage

(Image credit: M. Lavender Interiors / Chris Bradley)

When faced with interesting curves and beautiful detailing, it seems a shame not to make a feature of them. We love the way this small hallway has been decorated with a deep turmeric color on the inside that gives it a cocoon-like feel, whilst also incorporating sophisticated gallery wall ideas.

The dark wood flooring contrasts with the color scheme, whilst at the same time creating a continuity from the hallway to the living room beyond. 

10. Create a cohesive color scheme 

(Image credit: Future / Chris Everard)

When creating a scheme, view your hallway as an integral part of your home. 

Try to ensure the decoration is in harmony with your living room ideas and any other rooms leading off it, as well as with the stairway, balustrades and landing (if visible), and also that your paint colors and hallway wallpaper ideas do not clash.  

How do you make a small hallway look good?

It’s worth making the most of the bones of your hallway – if you live in a period property, consider keeping things simple and exposing original features such as cornicing, ceiling roses, encaustic flooring and handrails. 

In contemporary spaces, aim for a central feature, such as a striking glass staircase, a frameless picture window or statement lighting. 

Smaller tweaks such as adjusting your lighting scheme can be just as impactful. Choose a layered approach, adding subtle dimmable recess uplighters and ceiling lights combined with the warm yellow glow of table lamps. 

Don’t forget to consider your staircase too, and be sure to incorporate enough storage to keep it clutter free – particularly hallway shoe storage solutions.

Jennifer is the Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens. Having worked in the interiors industry for a number of years, spanning many publications, she now hones her digital prowess on the 'best interiors website' in the world. Multi-skilled, Jennifer has worked in PR and marketing, and the occasional dabble in the social media, commercial and e-commerce space. Over the years, she has written about every area of the home, from compiling design houses from some of the best interior designers in the world to sourcing celebrity homes, reviewing appliances and even the odd news story or two.

24 Small Entryway Ideas That Are Sleek and Stylish

Introduction

By

Lacey Ramburger

Lacey Ramburger

Lacey Ramburger is a personality assessment expert based in Kansas City, Missouri, with more than five years of experience. Her areas of expertise include Zodiac, Myers-Briggs, and the Enneagram. She is the author of the book "Being Whole" and dozens of articles on personality assessments and relationships.

Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process

and

Deirdre Sullivan

Deirdre Sullivan

Deirdre Sullivan is an interior design expert and features writer who specializes in home improvement as well as design. She began her career as an assistant editor at Elle magazine and has more than a decade of experience. Deirdre contributes content for brands including The Spruce and Realtor.com, and has been a featured speaker at various conferences.

Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process

Updated on 10/18/22

The Spruce / Christopher Lee Foto

We believe creating an instaworthy entryway has nothing to do with home size. So if that tiny nook by your front door doesn't feel very inviting, consider it an opportunity to decorate. Need some motivation? Here are 20 small entryways brimming with personal style. 

15 IKEA Hack Ideas for Your Small Entryway

Small hallways for narrow corridors, small hallways in Moscow inexpensively

Are you sure you want to delete the selected item? It will be impossible to cancel the action

142

For narrow corridors Inexpensive shoe racks Hallway hangers hallway furniture sale

Sort:

Products per page:

Found:

Width cm

Size

Big high Up to 2m Up to 3m small from 3 m narrow

Wide

Depth cm

Material

Wood chipboard MDF

closed floor standing straight straight corner corner

Height, cm

Features

with hanger with euro bar with a mirror with wheels with a shoebox With a shelf with seat

with wardrobe with shelves

Purpose

For the hallway For the bedroom For the living room

Filling

Combined with shelves

Loft Modern Classical Provence

Number of doors

one 2

Mirror

Not

Size

Width, mm

Height, mm

Depth, mm

White Beige Black Green Blue Blue Grey Brown Oak Ferrara/Beige Color Flowers

Offers

Stock Fast shipping Exclusive Bestseller Price reduced TOP Best price

New

Stolplit Partner 4 Partner 18 Partner 65 Accessories Partner 76 Partner 81

Partner 95 Partner 102 Partner 41 (1) Partner 777 Partner 124 Francesco Rossi Partner 166 Princess Melania Partner 190 Courage Partner 205 Partner 206 Partner 256 Partner 265 Compass partner 369partner 415 partner 464

Width, mm:

from 1

to 1200

Modern

Corner

corner

Small hallway - how to make it visually bigger? Visual Enhancement Tips

04/25/2020

Read in 16 min.

Listen to article

121

181268

A small hallway is a problem for many apartments in Russia. In the article we will tell you how to equip this space functionally and at the same time stylishly. Read on for tips on how to make a small hallway look bigger. All the "chips" - from finishing materials and furniture to decorative elements.

Content

  • Hall types
  • Finishing materials
  • Furniture in a small hallway
  • Mirrors and lighting
  • Summing up

Types of small hallways

Small hallways can be divided into two groups:

  • Small but square
  • Small yet narrow.

small hallway layout

Most of the tips in the article are universal and suitable for any hallway, but some will differ depending on the layout of the apartment.

It is more difficult to correctly organize the space in a small narrow hallway. It is necessary not only to visually expand the room, but also to equalize the proportions, to make the hallway more square.

There are several ways to expand the space in the hallway. Methods differ in terms of labor costs. Choose those for which you now have time and resources.

1. Finishing materials - relevant for those who have started a major renovation or are just planning an arrangement in a new apartment.

2. Furniture - suitable for those who are ready to change the headset in whole or in part.

3. Decor - minimum costs.

So, we have a task - to make a small hallway stylish and practical at the same time.

Finishing materials

1. Monotone and minimalism

In a small room, you should not make bright walls and lay multi-colored tiles with patterns. Choose light colors for walls and floors - white, beige, gray. Light materials do not "steal" visual space, as it happens with dark finishes.

Refuse wallpaper with small patterns and stripes. On the one hand, vertical elements make the room taller, but solid striped wallpaper in small hallways does not work in your favor. The room becomes visually "cluttered".

If you don’t like white walls “without everything”, then it’s better to add bright details through the decor.

Don't forget the front door too. Match the front door to the color of the walls - white or beige. For a fresher look, choose a door with sophisticated modern textures. For example, with a concrete look finish.

Examples of successful color schemes in the hallway

Stylish small entrance hall with white walls and front door Snegir 55

Stylish small hallway with accent floor and front door Snegir Cottage

Examples of bad colors in the hallway


Bright wallpaper in the hallway "steal" the space

Too bold color combination for a small room

2.

Putting the floor "across"

This advice is relevant for narrow hallways. Lay laminate, parquet, or long tile across the long hallway. This simple technique will visually smooth out the imbalances of the room and make it more square.

Coating across walls and coating along

3. Vertical elements

Yes, we said that vertical striped wallpaper is a bad idea. However, you can add some vertical elements in order to stretch a small room towards the ceiling. This technique works best in small square hallways.

One of the popular and successful options is wooden slats on the walls.

Stylish entrance hall with wooden slats and Ultimatum Next front door

Furniture in a small hallway

The hallway must be functional. We advise you to give preference to the practical component when arranging. The hallway "as in the picture" is, of course, stylish. But it is much more important to provide storage space for clothes and shoes.

Hallway furniture checklist:

1. Wardrobe for outerwear

2. Open hanger

3. Shoe box for storing shoes

4. Pouf or bench

5. Full length mirror

But what if the hallway is very small and it is simply impossible to fit all the furniture? There is only one answer - prioritize and choose wisely.

Small Hallway Furniture Tips:

1. Storage system in a small hallway

In such a system, there is immediately a place for shoes, and hangers, and shelves for things, and a pouffe.


Storage system and entrance door Delta-112 in the hallway

Storage system and entrance door Ultimatum Next in the hallway


2. Built-in wardrobe

Install a built-in wardrobe with mirrored panels. So you immediately solve the problem with the mirror, which does not need a separate place and with the storage of all things.

Mirrored wardrobe and Ultimatum Next entrance door in the hallway

Wardrobe with mirror finish and front door Snegir 55 in the hallway

3.

Life hack

For a square hallway, choose cabinets and storage systems that are small in length, but deep. For a narrow one, on the contrary, a long, shallow cabinet.

Storage system and entrance door Snegir 55 in the hallway

4. Instead of a floor hanger - hooks

A bulky floor hanger or chest of drawers will “eat up” the space, which we already have little. Choose open storage systems that mount to the wall.

Clothes hooks and entrance door Delta-112 in the hallway

5. Use corners

In a small space, it is important to use every centimeter to good use. But often our corners “disappear”, they only accumulate dust. In a small hallway, a corner cabinet is especially appropriate. Yes, visually the space will no longer be so “free and clean”, but how many things can fit.

Ultimatum corner cabinet and front door in the hallway

6. Cabinet with slatted doors

Is it possible to buy a wardrobe with mirrors? Choose cabinets with slatted fronts that don't make the space "blind". It's also a more budget-friendly option.

Rack cabinet in the hallway

7. Pouf or bench

The same principle as with cabinets. For narrow hallways - a narrow long bench against the wall, for a square one - not an elongated pouffe. Choose a functional bench and ottoman - opening, with shelves and drawers. So you can solve the problem with a separate shoe rack.

Bench with drawers and front door Ultimatum Next

8. Interior doors

For a small hallway, several design options for doorways are suitable:

  • Without internal door - arch or slopes along the perimeter
  • Doors with glass inserts - more "air" in the room
  • Sliding doors - do not steal space to open. Minus - rather big price
  • Interior doors that match the front door - this way the space looks more organized and organic.

Entrance hall without interior doors. Entrance door Ultimatum Next

Interior doors to match Ultimatum Next front door

Mirrors and lighting

All interior details and light should work towards one goal - to make the space stylish and visually expand it. Our main assistants here: mirrors and lamps.

Do not overload a small hallway with a bunch of decor - figurines, candles, massive frames and paintings. All this can be implemented in the bedroom, living room, kitchen. In a small space, we try to make the space as clean as possible.

1. Full-length mirror

For the hallway, this is necessary - we want to see ourselves before going out into the street.

Options for placing a mirror in a small hallway:

  • On the wall - but often there is no room for it
  • On the cabinet - a great option
  • On the front door - ideal for small hallways, where even a closet will not fit. A mirror on the front door both expands the space and adds air, and is ideal for looking at yourself just before exiting through the same door.

A small entrance hall with an open storage system on the wall, a bench and a mirror in the door is a complete and practical option.

Small hallway with Delta-100 front door with mirror finish

Each series of our doors has an option of an internal panel with a mirror - from the most budgetary to premium doors.

2. Mirrors or mirrored wall stickers

A decor element that diversifies the plain interior of the hallway will add light and space.

Window mirror. Entrance door Ultimatum Next

Entrance hall with a mirror panel on the wall and Ultimatum Next entrance door

Entrance door Ultimatum Next in the hallway with an oval mirror

3. Lighting

Light rooms look more spacious, so it is important to correctly set the light. You should not hang one small light bulb, thinking "it's still 2 meters here, that's enough." Our goal is to fill the space with air.

Main lighting

Do not hang one large chandelier, especially a long one. She "eats" the height of the room and reduces the space. Choose a few ceiling lights that are nearly flat and don't protrude from the surface.

Several sources of ceiling lighting in the hallway. Entrance door Ultimatum.

Additional light sources

Overloading the walls with lamps is not a good idea. They already have mirror stickers, storage systems, small paintings.

Buy an LED strip and fasten mirrors, shelves, paintings around the perimeter. It looks unusual and adds light without taking up space. You can install such tapes simply on free sections of the wall.

Additional light sources in the hallway with the entrance door Cyber

Putting thoughts together

The main advice was learned, the rules were sorted out. Now is the time to put them into practice. First of all, focus on the layout of your hallway and financial capabilities.

For now, we will briefly list the main points:

1. Between beauty and practicality, we choose the second. Living in a picture from Pinterest is not very convenient.

2. Floors and walls are plain and harmonize with each other. No small drawings on the wallpaper and flashy patterns on the tiles. We add variety with decor and, for example, an interesting texture of the front door.

3. In a narrow hallway we put the laminate across - we align the proportions

4. We try to fit all the necessary furniture - a wardrobe, a hanger, a shoe rack, a bench, a mirror. Doesn't fit separately? We mix a bench with a shoe rack, a mirror with an entrance door, hangers with shelves and drawers.

5. Remember the rule - for a narrow hallway, long and shallow furniture, for a square one - short and deep. We use corners - corner poufs, hangers, cabinets.

6. We put doors with mirrors, sliding or combined with the front door. Or even leave the opening without a door. It all depends on the layout. We do not recommend leaving a bathroom without a door.

7.


Learn more