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Create a fabulous first impression with these design tips and tricks.
Looking for Instagrammable hallway ideas? From colour palettes to inventive storage suggestions, there are plenty of ways to add depth and interest to your space.
First impressions matter, which is why planning the perfect scheme is key. A space to accommodate traffic, we don't often value our hallway as much as other rooms in the home. While it can be easy to overlook them (or simply use them as a dumping ground for muddy shoes and unopened post), transforming your hallway into a stylish entryway doesn't have to be a challenge.
Take a look at some of the ways you can spruce up your hallway...
The place for arrivals and departures, hallways are not the easiest of spaces to decorate. To add an edge of grown-up glamour, why not experiment with a dark colour scheme? It may sound counterintuitive to paint a small space dark, but it can really work wonders — especially when it's just one wall.
'Dark colours under the dado rail with fresh white woodwork and light colours above work really well to hide any scuffs and marks,' says David Harris, Design Director at Andrew Martin. 'It adds lots of light this way, to what can be narrow spaces.'
Wall murals are an easy way to turn a plain wall into a unique artistic expression. Unlike wallpaper, murals are digital prints created using photography and imagery that can be blown up as you wish. Whether you're after head-turning prints or bespoke designs, they will make any hallway space pop.
Pictured: Trees One wallpaper fresco, £85/sq m, Angel & Boho
Neutrals will obviously make your space feel brighter, but don't be afraid of punchy colours. Setting the tone for the rest of the house, some Insta-worthy hues to dip your paintbrush into include forest greens, mellow yellow and deep navy blue.
'Paint is the backdrop to all interiors and your personality can be stamped all over it,' adds David Harris. 'Your hallway is the first point of entry. It should also give your guests an insight into who you are, and what your house and interior says about you.'
Walls in Ammonite estate emulsion, £49.50/2.5L, Farrow & Ball; English Yellow wall paint, £41.95/2.5L, Annie Sloan
Since hallways tend to be narrow, slim console tables are great to consider. Make your entryway tidy and welcoming by placing plants on top, stacking books, or using the space underneath for shoes.
'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,' says Emma Deterding, Founder and Creative Director, Kelling Designs.
HB recommends... brighten up your hallway by choosing an all-white console table, such as this two-drawer style from our House Beautiful range at Homebase.
READ MORE: 5 clever ways to brighten a dark hallway
Tiles are an excellent choice for the hallway. Not only are they impervious to wet and muddy boots, but they also set the scene for a bold, statement style.
If you're on a budget, head over to Homebase for everything from pink to classic white. For a splurge buy, consider Ca' Pietra's ever-popular 'Lily Pad' design. You won't regret it.
'When choosing flooring, you need to think about how the space is going to be used, and to consider the practicalities; different floor coverings are suitable for different conditions,' advises Jenna Kane, Product Development at Kersaint Cobb.
Carpet runners — which run down the centre of a staircase — create the ultimate Insta-worthy space. If you're after some inspiration, we recommend opting for bold stripes, such as this gorgeous Portobello carpet from our House Beautiful range at Carpetright. We couldn't think of a better way to wow guests...
Pictured: Carpetright x House Beautiful Portobello Carpet In Magpie
Bring a dark hallway to life with potted plants, such as the Spider Plant and Snake Plant. You can also consider succulents and cacti, as they are very tolerant of low-light conditions. If you don't consider yourself to be green-fingered or you don't have the time, place a few artificial plants around, no one will know.
Painting a front door is an inexpensive way to freshen up the exterior of your home. Need some inspiration? Blue and grey are among the most Instagrammable shades for 2021, while a previous study found bright blue doors could boost your property value by £4,000.
'Statement doors have become very popular recently, with people opting for a bright blue, a vibrant yellow or soft pastel shades,' says Matthew Brown, Sandtex Technical Consultant. 'These colours can really make your property stand out and give it a more modern feel.'
Pictured: Crown Breatheasy Creme de la Rose, £22 at Homebase
It might be a place for passing through, but stools and benches offer a fun focal point that turns the hallway into a truly welcoming spot.
Some hallway benches have space inside for shoes, while other slimline styles are designed to sit on when tying shoes. Don't forget to add cushions for comfort.
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