The Sunday Mail
DO you have that one hallway in your home that you are not quite sure how to decorate? Whether it is too long, too narrow, or it opens up to a doorway, awkward hallways are common in most homes.
Homeowners tend to underestimate or overestimate them when decorating. This, in turn, causes more decorating headaches than need be.
Hallways or corridors are supposed to take people through your home. Each hallway should be an experience rather than a tunnel. If you are looking for ways to address your awkward hallway, below are a few tips.
Do not overcrowd
If your hallway is at the entrance of your home, entrance of a stairway or leads directly into another room, do not to overcrowd the walkway. Consider using furnishings that “hug” the wall, rather than protrude into the valuable walking area. Also, utilise vertical wall space for decorative mirrors, artwork and wall lighting sconces. This way, you add decorative touches visually but do not overcrowd the walking area.
Awkward intersections
If your hallway leads to awkward intersections of adjoining rooms, stairs and entryways, be mindful of traffic patterns when decorating. If the hallway is narrow, opt for décor on the walls, instead of the floor. Consider decorating open floor plan rooms with furniture adjacent to the hallway. This way, the hallway does not look bare and, visually, it can borrow décor from adjacent spaces. The eye will be fooled, and your intersection will not seem as awkward.
Make it inviting
Whether your hallway is in the front entry, or it is at the back of the house leading to the garage, it can be made inviting with colour, instantly. For narrower hallways, use lighter colours to open up the dark corridor, and, conversely, use darker colours where there is ample natural light. Consider painting baseboard trim and door trim in a complementary neutral tone to bring out the colour of the walls.
If you have room, add a welcoming chair or a floor vase of natural elements, like bamboo for visual height.
Bare hallways are not always bad
If your hallway seems awkward because it does not have any décor in it, consider if there is a place for the eye to travel, naturally. Hallways that are adjacent to kitchens and landscaped outdoor views are often fine left alone.
Remember, your hallway should let a person arrive at the next space without thinking about the journey. If you feel uncomfortable while walking through a hallway, consider adding décor, colour or more natural light.
Awkward hallways do not have to be a decorating nightmare. Use these simple tips and see if you can turn an unpleasant transition space into an enjoyable one. Oftentimes, we think of our home as individual spaces with a hallway to connect them. Your hallway will seem less awkward if the flooring matches, and does not get broken up visually. — freshome
