Should you panel a small hallway?

Author: Dr. Raymundo Olson Sr.  |  Last update: Friday, March 21, 2025

Although paneling works in many rooms, the idea of using wall panels in a hallway can not only make the space more interesting, but actually look more spacious. Plus, since it's a short space, you can get a little wilder than in other areas, since you're less likely to tire of it.

Can you panel a small hallway?

Installing wood panelling in a hallway is an easy way to elevate an entrance or create a captivating corridor. Whether you want a full-length or half-feature, these contemporary styles transform high-traffic areas into stunning spaces.

Does panelling make a room look small?

Vertical panelling can create an illusion of height, making a small room feel larger. And overall, it helps to create a streamlined, sleeker look.

How do you make a small hallway look expensive?

Rethinking lighting fixtures. Add some drama to the hallway by the addition of a new overhead chandelier or you can find a pair of perfectly detailed sconces. A statement piece. It can a patterned rug, a tufted bench, or even a pair of matching console tables. Avoid overcrowding the hallway. Add some art.

Is wall panelling outdated?

Wood wall panel is an old but practical decoration that people have recently become popular with to make their space look beautiful and sophisticated.

Wall Panelling SECRET TRICK Guide - My DIY Step-by-step Guide - Hall Renovation Series

Is panelling still on trend in 2024?

Is Panelling Still on Trend in 2024? Yes, wall panelling is absolutely still on trend this year! In fact, it's seen a surge in popularity for its ability to add both style and functionality to a space. Modern wall panels with clean lines, neutral tones and rustic vibes offer a fresh take on this classic element.

What are the cons of paneling?

Wall paneling disadvantages:
  1. More costly than drywall.
  2. Takes more time to install than drywall.
  3. Susceptible to warping if not installed correctly.

What color makes a small hallway look bigger?

Opt for lighter shades to make narrow hallways look bigger

The lighter the colour, the more it reflects available light – the darker the colour, the more it will absorb the light. So if you want to make a hallway seem larger you will need to go for lighter shades,” explains Justyna Korczynska, senior designer at Crown.

How do you make the most of a small hallway?

Decorate a small hallway with matching tone on tone décor, this will help the space appear bigger. Try to avoid decorating with dark colours, which will make the hallway feel smaller. Instead, decorate with light and airy colours to maximise the flow of light and make the hallway appear larger.

How do you make a narrow hallway look good?

How to make a narrow hallway look bigger. Mirrors make a small and narrow space appear larger, and let you see into adjacent rooms. Materials with reflective surfaces such as glass and metal, help in bringing light in too. Place multiple mirrors in different shapes and sizes for an artistic look.

Should panelling be lighter or darker than walls?

Your panelling doesn't always need to be darker than your walls. In fact, having your wall a darker shade compared to the panelling, or painting both the same colour, can give any room a touch of depth and texture.

Does wall panelling add value?

The value of your house will depend on a variety of factors, one of which will be its interior. Wall panels, particularly PVC wall panels such as those from National Plastics, can really help to improve and enhance the look and feel of your home, which in turn can contribute to an increase in value.

Does shiplap make a room look smaller?

Horizontal shiplap has an optical illusion effect just like vertical shiplap does. It can make a room look wider than it is. So, if you want to make a room look or feel larger than it is, horizontal is the way to go.

Does panelling make a room look smaller?

Floor to ceiling panelling is a great way to make a room feel taller and using one continuous colour will enhance this. Using a single colour creates a relaxing, inviting feel to a room and allows you to add additional colour and texture with furniture and artwork. Half height panelling can add depth to a room.

What is the best height for hallway paneling?

Installing your wall panelling at around the 2 metre height will suit most rooms with a standard height ceiling. If you have taller ceilings in your home, you could raise this height a little.

What is the standard size of a small hallway?

It's generally recommended for hallway widths to be a minimum of 90cm or 36 inches wide, but if you ask us, that's very light on! A hallway that's 1m or 40 inches wide minimum is much more practical, although still not nearly enough to make a statement.

What flooring makes a hallway look bigger?

Light flooring is great as, similarly to lighter walls, it reflects the light and makes your hallway appear larger. However, don't be afraid to use dark flooring. The right dark flooring can also make your room appear bigger if partnered with the right cool-toned wall colour.

What's the smallest a hallway can be?

The width of a hallway shall be not less than 3 feet (914 mm). ❖ Hallways must be a minimum of 3 feet (914 mm) wide to accommodate moving furniture into rooms off the hallway and for safe egress from the structure.

How do I make my hallway look luxurious?

Consider finishes such as matte black, polished chrome or brass to complement your chosen door style. Hallway floors take a beating. Opt for durable materials like hardwood, tile, or laminate. For a touch of luxury, consider a patterned runner rug that complements your overall design scheme.

Does panelling make a hallway look bigger?

Horizontal panelling can make a room seem wider, which works well in narrow rooms or hallways. Horizontal shiplap or tongue-and-groove panelling can also make the walls look longer. Keep the panelling light-coloured and use simple furniture to avoid clutter.

What is the most welcoming color for a hallway?

Another way to sink into pure peace is to slather your hallway walls in blue. Along with imbuing a sense of tranquillity, blue has a friendly quality to welcome guests and makes kicking your shoes off all the more satisfying.

Should a living room and hallway be the same color?

If there is no natural break between a hallway and a living room, you should definitely paint them the same color. In this case, paint both rooms a neutral wall color like off-white or lighter gray. You can add an accent wall color in your hallway or living area to add a pop of color.

Is paneling on walls outdated?

The style of paneling is dependent on the interior style of the room, however, we always like to add a unique contemporary element,' says Alexander Shepel, founder of SHEPEL. 'Wall paneling is utterly timeless, and this decorative feature always adds a unique elegance to a room.

Is it cheaper to use drywall or paneling?

While it primarily depends on lumber costs, presently, wood paneling costs more than drywall.

Does paneling increase home value?

While these are undoubtedly impactful, one overlooked strategy that can significantly increase home value is the application of wall paneling. A subtle yet profound design element, wall paneling infuses style, charm, and character into any home, making it an appealing prospect for potential buyers.

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