7 Smart Ways to Maximize a Small Hallway

A small, narrow hallway doesn't have to be a bland pathway to your home's living areas. Although often overlooked, hallways provide an opportunity to introduce extra style, storage, or function between rooms, even if the space is tight. These small hallway decorating ideas will help you give it some character of its own. Learn how to trick the eye into thinking a hallway is longer, wider, or taller than it really is with these clever tips.

1. Use a mirror to make a small hallway look larger.

Adding a mirror is an easy way to make a small hallway feel more spacious. Because it reflects light, the mirror can make a cramped or dark space feel larger and more open. Hang one at the end of a short hallway or along one side of a narrow one to visually expand the space.

2. Brighten a small hallway with plenty of lighting.

Good lighting is key to making a small hallway feel intentionally designed instead of overlooked. Line a small hallway with stylish light fixtures that offer plenty of brightness. Since floor space is limited, opt for wall sconces or ceiling-mounted fixtures over floor or table lamps.

3. Make your hallway a focal point.

Small hallways are the perfect spot to take a risk with a bold decorating choice. Because the area is small and not used as a living space, a vibrant patterned wallpaper or dramatic paint color isn't likely to overwhelm. For a less permanent update, lay down a colorful rug or hang a piece of large-scale art to transform a small hallway into a stylish destination.

4. Turn a small hallway into a functional entry.

If your entryway consists of only a small hallway, employ a few design tricks to maximize the space. Boost organization with a small console or table that can offer hidden storage and serve as a dropzone for keys, purses, and more inside the door. A row of hooks above can hold hats, jackets, and scarves. Make sure to mount the hooks high enough that hanging items won't drag on the tabletop.

5. Create a message center.

Another way to take advantage of a hallway's length is to run a strip of a dry-erase board or a chalkboard along the wall for family members to write messages. This small hallway idea doesn't even require hanging anything; chalkboard paint makes the job easy. Sliding barn doors are another useful solution in tight halls since the door won't block floor space when open.

6. Choose space-efficient furniture.

If the idea of squeezing furniture into a small hallway has you skeptical, try a narrow console table. It provides extra storage and a landing spot for a few daily essentials like keys and wallets. Keep any accent pieces simple, like this vase, so it doesn't feel too crowded.

7. Pull the focus upward.

Draw the eye to the sky with a pattern or even a colorfully painted ceiling. Choose a wallpaper with a vertically inclined pattern if you want your ceilings to appear taller. Painting the hallway ceiling a bold color also works to instantly draw attention upward. If you choose to frame photos or art against a patterned wall, be sure to choose neutral, matching frames so they don't clash with the pattern.