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Design: Sara Tramp for EHD, Photo: Tessa Neustadt
Chances are, you've put a lot less effort into decorating your home's hallways than you have the actual, well, rooms in your house. And it's understandable: cramped, poorly lit, and sparse, they're not exactly the most inspiring stretches of square footage. Or at least, that's what we used to think, before these awe-inspiring, high-impact hallways and entryways changed our opinion forever.
In spite of their limited footprint, each hallway is bursting with personality, practical storage options, and—yes—bright, inviting light. These spaces show that no nook or cranny should be overlooked when decorating your abode, because it's often the least expected design "moments" that have the most impact—both on your guests, and even on your home's inhabitants when they groggily wander down the hall for a quick glass of water at night. (You'd be amazed how much of a mood-lifter a well-decorated hallway can be.)
Click through to see the hallway and entryway designs that have revolutionized the way we think about these in-between spaces.
Green Space
Hallways and entryways are prime spots for plant life, provided they get enough light. For darker corridors, go ahead and opt for convincing fakes—we won't tell.
Some great low light plants include pothos, rubber plants, and peace lilies.
Tight Turn
In close quarters like this, there's really no room for anything off-the-wall—but this space still makes a very striking impression through its use of paint and floor covering. Punch up even the smallest hallway by painting trims a high-contrast hue, and selecting tile or carpet (or both, as seen here) that have plenty of personality. The final touch? An on-trend round mirror to, ahem, round out the space.
The Skinny
Some narrow hallways just are never going to fit a cozy bench, no matter how you slice it. But this little runway proves that wall space can be your best friend when it comes to storage. Sculptural wall hooks and sleek shelf boxes make a home for decor and necessities, while a bold runner rug and statement light fixture brighten things up.
Off The Ledge
Don't talk us down—we're loving this ledge arrangement that accommodates even the most fickle art lovers. Simply swap pieces in and out as the mood strikes—this way, super-short hallways with limited wall space can show off double or triple their normal allotment of masterpieces throughout the year.
Seeing Spots
Talk about making every inch count. This creative space uses its limited square footage to the fullest extent, both visually and functionally. Maximalist wallpaper and two-tone walls coexist brilliantly, while an occasional table with store-beneath ottomans and a leaning blanket ladder (in the side hall) offers space to perch, hook, and hang.
The Full Picture
Sure, a little mirror for checking your lipstick and making sure there are no stray spinach bits in your teeth is nice, but don't we all *really* want to see our whole head-to-toe looks before dashing out the door? A full-length mirror not only gives this little hallway a wide-open, spacious feel, but it lets you make sure that, yes, you're wearing matching shoes before you head to that morning meeting.
In For The Long Hall
Super long hallways can feel like a chore to walk down, but not when you're encouraged along by a smattering of different touchable textures like in this high-contrast corridor. The wall hanging, runner, and light fixture all feel similar yet different enough to create visual interest and make the journey that much more enjoyable.