To make a small or narrow hallway look bigger, paint the hallways a lighter paint color like white or off-white.
If your hallway is small and narrow but you want it to feel more open and expansive, choose light colors like whites, neutrals, and pastel hues. If you want a cozier look, deep colors like blues, reds, and greens will feel inviting.
'Painting your hallway in an off-white shade is a timeless and effective way to give the space a brighter look and enhance the light in the narrow room. In turn creating the feeling of a larger space, as the light bounces off the walls,' Michael at The Paint Shed says.
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.
To make a small or narrow hallway look bigger, paint the hallways a lighter paint color like white or off-white.
So, choose a shade that will help the space feel light and airy. A light grey like Rock Salt will lend your hallway a contemporary feel, like you might find in the reception of a boutique hotel. In fact, any kind of pale neutral would work well.
'There are no rules about painting the hallway and living room the same color but it is a really interesting new trend that creates a smooth, inviting visual flow from one room to the other and can make both spaces appear larger by association,' says Marianne.
Hallway ideas: decoration
Since hallways, especially in city houses, tend to be narrow, the walls are an important feature. Opt for a warm paint colour, some elegant wall panelling, or a patterned wallpaper to lend the space character. Also consider adding wall lights, for a gentler glow than an overhead light.
Choose Light-Colored Wallpaper
Whites, creams, pastels, and light greys are all great choices for hallway wallpaper. Avoid dark, bold colours, which can make the hallway feel smaller and more enclosed.
Opt for lighter shades to make narrow hallways look bigger
If you're looking for small hallway ideas to create the illusion of a bigger space, opt for lighter paint shades on doors, ceilings, and walls.
Orange: the warm hallway paint colour
Orange is a brave choice, but it's also really fun. A splash of orange adds instant warmth. It's so uplifting and vibrant that it gives an instant energy boost. A pop of bright orange is enough to do the trick.
White paint colours are ideal for hallways that are usually poorly lit during the daytime and can offer some beautiful contrast if you have a dark wood front door or artwork to hang on the walls. Navy blues and similar dark colours add some interesting depth to the living space, elongating the hallway in the process.
“Art makes most boring long hallways or small spaces pop with interest and personality,” the designer says. “A strong piece of art or an interesting collection of wall-hung objects, and/or a gallery wall, are fantastic ways to decorate hallways.”
One of the most popular vintage hallway mirror styles is the oval-shaped mirror with an ornate frame. It is a classic piece that can work in any decor style. Another popular antique hallway mirror style is the arched mirror with a wooden frame.
Start small and smile at him, say hello to him. See if he smiles back or says hello back. If he does then try to bump into him more or maybe one day, if possible, stop him and compliment him (on anything- his shoes, smile, shirt, whatever).
In general, lighter colours will make your hallway appear bigger with the illusion of more light and open space. Small, narrow hallways tend to suit a white, cream, or pale grey colour scheme, whereas darker shades are often used in larger, wider hallway entrances to add warmth and depth.
Light colors make it easier to pinpoint the room's corners and can make them feel farther away, creating an open, elegant ambiance. Small foyer entryway paint colors include white, pale gray and muted or pastel colors. These shades work wonders in small spaces, making the room feel more open.
Create An Illusion Of Space
Paint hallways with light, airy colours to widen the space visually. Steer clear of dark and warm colours for your hall as these will make the space seem smaller. Lay any directional flooring running toward the source of light in your hall – which may be the front door itself.
Grey is the perfect choice for a calming space. Timeless and elegant, light grey works well in all hallways, helping the area feel bright and airy. Alternatively, a dark grey hallway is ideal for a dramatic look, making the adjoining rooms feel more spacious.
Patterned wallpaper can add depth and intensity to a wide hallway. If you want to stick with light or neutral walls and flooring in your hallway, adding dark furniture or pictures can create a striking contrast. Use similar styles of art and decorations throughout the hallway to enhance the flow of your home.