Banish the Bland: 8 Inspiring Ideas for a Handsome Hallway

When you redecorate your home, don't neglect the hallway! Draw on these inspired examples to dress up those drab, narrow spaces and turn them into points of interest.

By Jennifer Noonan | Updated Feb 22, 2019 10:00 AM

Hang Hooks and a Chalkboard

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Hallway Hooks

Mount a series of hooks to create an easy drop-off center for coats and bags as you come through the door. Paint the walls with chalkboard paint, and your hallway now doubles as a message center or a place to record daily inspiration.

Design Sponge

Set Up a Library

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Hallway Library

A long hallway with a high ceiling is perfect for housing a library. This supremely practical solution makes a stunning visual impact. Add a library ladder to make the top shelves easily accessible—and for the occasional spontaneous ride.

Christies International Real Estate

Throw Some Rugs

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Hallway Rugs

Transform the end of a long hallway into a destination by deploying a series of small throw rugs that lead up to a dramatic piece of art. Add a trunk, a throw, and a pillow, and you'll have a place to stop and rest after your journey, or to mull over your next book selection.

afamily.vn

Make a Reading Nook

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Reading Nook

Creating a cozy nook for reading or quiet contemplation makes good use of a boring, unappreciated hallway. The combination of a recessed wall of bookshelves and a bench seat lined with throw pillows is both understated and comfortable.

Houzz

Mount a Mirror

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Hallway Mirrors

Adorn the wall of a blah hallway with a large mirror, which can increase the impact of a lighting fixture or an architectural feature like stairs by reflecting it back into the space. If your hallway is home to a utilitarian radiator cover, use it as a display for seasonal decor and homey candles.

Homestyle Diary

Construct Built-Ins

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Built-In Storage

Bring life to a long hallway with built-in shelves for storage and display. A series of focal lighting fixtures illuminates photos, and an arched beadboard ceiling is a beautiful counterpoint to the rich wood flooring.

House or Home

Install Floating Shelves

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Floating Shelves

Arrange a series of floating shelves to make an otherwise dull hallway delightful. Embellished with photos, mementos, and flowers, the shelves bring a dynamic element to the space. Simple bins on the floor below serve as practical but attractive storage.

House to Home

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