M ost homes have a hallway, and, most often than not, that corridor-like space is often wasted.
Try these nine ways to make the most of your hallway:
Show off your bold streak
The space is small enough to ensure that the bold touch — be it black paint or a red lacquer console — is contained.
After all, a few steps further and you’re into another living space.
Put up a statement piece
Statement pieces don’t have to be confined to living areas like the lounge, dining room or master bedroom.
A statement piece such as a chandelier, mural or even a mirror will ensure that the most boring area in your home gets a makeover.
Bring in some seating
Add more interest, along with seating space, to the narrowest of hallways. A thin bench or slender sofa can provide you with a place to put your things when hurrying in and out of the bedroom.
Aim for hidden storage to get more bang for your buck.
Make it a family wall of fame
Bring dead space alive by overloading on the family photographs. Sketches, caricatures, snapshots and polaroids: bring them all out to display in an eye-catching manner.
Stencil on a pattern
A tub of paint, some brushes and a stencil will add visual interest and style to the space.
Choose from simple stripes, florals or the on-trend Moroccan trellis.
Work on the ceiling
Most often than not, the ceiling tends to be neglected across the home.
Set that wrong right by working on the hallway ceiling. A coat of paint, bright wallpaper, a stencil pattern or wooden strips, they will all pull the eye upwards.
Consider a mirror, or two
Try a large full-length floor mirror at the end of the hallway or one mounted on a wall. Nothing works better than a peep window — a mirror positioned in front of a window to reflect in light.
Create stylish storage space
Take your inspiration from mud rooms, a staple in homes abroad. A bench, with storage for regular-use shoes tucked in, a series of hooks to hang up bags and jackets, and a small table to leave keys and other odds and ends – that’s all you need.
Transform into a small study
A wide hallway can be put to double duty, either as a mini-library or a small study.
Keep the furniture as light as you can — a slim desk-and-chair set for the laptop and you, and plenty of floating shelves for the books , magazines and journals.
