Guide to Hallway Decor
November 28, 2019When you think about the design and decor of your custom home, the hallways are probably not one of the first things to come to mind. But, these areas offer plenty of opportunities for decoration and style that support the overall look and feel you want to create in your home. Use the tips and ideas in this guide to hallway decor to inspire you:
1. Think About Storage
Storage may not be the first thing you think about when you think of hallways, but it’s an important consideration. Coats, toys, shoes, and more can easily end up as tripping hazards in a hallway, especially if it’s a hallway near an entry or exit. Instead of creating an area that could attract clutter, spend some time thinking about storage.
Simply having a storage closet nearby is often enough to keep the clutter under control and out of the hallway. Depending on how much space you have available in the connecting rooms or even the hallway itself, you could include a gorgeous wooden chest of drawers, bench, or another storage unit that enhances the look of your home while also providing a valuable function.
2. Keep Movement and Flow in Mind
Hallways are navigational elements of your home, which means they’re going to get a lot of foot traffic. One of the biggest tips when it comes to a guide to hallway decor is to keep movement and flow in mind.
You don’t want the decor you include in your hallway to inhibit movement, create tripping hazards, or increase the probability of someone running into things. You have a little more freedom with a wider hallway because there is more room to move, but you still don’t want to go overboard.
3. Less is More with Hallway Decor
In general, it’s a good idea to follow a “less is more” theme with hallway decor. Because you tend to want to keep the floor free of obstructions, hallway decor is usually focused on the walls. Hanging prints, getting creative with different types of trim, using paint strategically, and more can all elevate your hallways with decor while also keep a more minimalist look to them.
4. Consider the Size of Your Hallway
Another important tip in any guide to hallway decor is to consider the size of your hallway. The way you approach decor in a narrow hallway will be a little different than the way you approach it for a wide hallway. Here are some ideas you can use for decorating each type of hallway:
3 Ideas for Decorating a Narrow Hallway
A narrow hallway certainly limits the possibilities for decor because of its size. But, there are still plenty of things you can do to add some decor to a narrow hallway. Here are a few ideas for decorating a narrow hallway:
1. Add a Gorgeous Carpet Runner
One of the easiest ways to decorate a narrow hallway is to add a carpet runner. There is a seemingly endless number of options available from colors to patterns and more, so you’re bound to find the right fit for your narrow hallway. And, because there are so many options available, you’ll be able to find a carpet runner that matches the rest of your interior design theme – no matter what it is!
2. Get Creative with Trim and Lighting
Narrow hallways are a great place for you to get creative with trim and lighting. There are several lighting choices available to help illuminate a narrow hallway like recessed lights, wall sconces, and more. Not only does the right illumination ensure you can find your way around in the dark, but it also tends to help open up the space.
Trim can also help you decorate a narrow hallway. Wall trim like wainscoting can add texture to your walls without taking up a lot of space. A chair rail can do the same. You can even combine types of trim for a more interesting look like adding a chair rail and then putting beadboard underneath it. Although it’s a small touch, you can also add a stylish flair with your baseboard or with crown molding.
3. Hang Some Pictures
Another easy way to decorate a narrow hallway is to hang up some pictures. If you use thinner frames, you won’t need to worry about them sticking out far enough to cause an issue with people running into them. Family pictures, your favorite photos, fun prints, and more can all be hung up in a narrow hallway to add some decor and life to an often-neglected area.
3 Ideas for Decorating a Wide Hallway
Because there is more space available, you have more opportunities for hallway decor with a wide hallway. In addition to everything you can do in a narrow hallway, here are a few ideas for decorating a wide hallway:
1. Build in a Bench with Storage
If you have enough space available in your wide hallway, you can create a built-in bench for seating with storage cubbies or cabinets underneath. Not only does this add some extra storage to your home, but it also provides a functional space that gives you more opportunities to add some hallway decor.
After all, every bench needs a cushion and some pillows or some type of covering. Plus, the extra storage it adds can be used to display books, store things needed for rooms nearby, and more. If it’s open storage, you can also use decorative baskets or bins to add an interesting touch while also providing something useful.
2. Include a Fancy Cabinet or Chest
A wide hallway gives you the space to add furniture to this area. Long chests, tables, benches, or cabinets are popular furniture choices for wide hallways. You can also go with something fancier like a high-quality curio cabinet or storage chest. These items often add an interesting piece of decor while also providing other functions.
3. Feature Sculptures, Trinkets, or Large Artwork
A cabinet full of trinkets, a series of pedestals featuring sculptures, and large prints or artwork are all great options for a wide hallway. You can also play around with more ornate frames since you don’t have to worry as much about how far from the wall they protrude. As with any hallway decor, you don’t want to go overboard, but you certainly have a bit more freedom in a wider hallway.
Whether you’re decorating a narrow hallway, a wide one, or something in between, following the tips in this guide to hallway decor can help you figure out what works best for you. Decorating your hallways is just one of many ways you can personalize your home.
With a custom home, every detail is personalized and built to suit your tastes, lifestyle, and needs. If you’re ready to talk about bringing the home of your dreams to life, contact Custom Home Group at 717-284-4090!