Why Hallways Matter: How A Dull Corner Can Turn Into A Stunning First Impression

Why Hallways Matter: How A Dull Corner Can Turn Into A Stunning First Impression

Why Hallways Matter: How A Dull Corner Can Turn Into A Stunning First Impression

Interior design expert shares tips on maximizing the impact of your home’s first impression

Key Findings:

• Home styling expert says as the first space you see, hallways are a key aspect of interior home design
• Playful tiling, statement storage pieces, stylish runners, and a work-from-home nook are some of the ways to elevate your hallway
• Expert talks about the trend of maximizing small spaces and how to work with your hallway’s layout

Think hallways don’t need interior design? Think again! 

“Every space inside your home should have at least some thought put into the interior decor, even hallways,” says Daniel Ulfland, co-founder of Flitch, an online interior styling platform. “Hallways are often overlooked, but the front hall is often the first space you see when entering a home, so it should have a visual impact and set the tone for the rest of the house.”

Daniel lists several ways to make a hallway impactful and transform this often-overlooked area into a welcoming and functional space.

Lay A Stylish Runner

Runners are long, narrow, and often rectangular rugs that are typically seen in hallways. A runner can bring warmth and texture to a hallway, but it’s also a practical way to keep your feet warm while removing your shoes. Use textures and patterns that suit the width and length of your hallway. For a cohesive look, match the runner with elements from adjoining rooms, so that it blends in seamlessly.

Merge Indoor And Outdoor Aesthetics

Soft greens, earthy browns, or sky blues can mirror the tranquility of a garden, making your space feel more expansive and inviting. To strengthen this connection, add botanical prints or using materials like stone or wood that reflect the outdoor environment.

Experiment With Playful Tiling

Your hallway offers a unique opportunity to be adventurous with flooring. Choose tiles that make a statement—whether it’s through color, pattern, or texture. A bold geometric pattern or an elegant traditional design can draw the eye and lead it through the space, creating a sense of movement and interest. “Tiling both enhances the aesthetic of your hallway while also offering durability in a high-traffic area,” Daniel says.

Choose Statement Storage Pieces

Select storage solutions that serve as both functional and decorative pieces. A beautifully crafted console table, an ornate coat stand, or stylish cubbies can transform your hallway into a space that’s both more organized and visually appealing. Look for designs that fit the scale of your hallway but stand out through their material, color, or unique design.

Create A Work-From-Home Nook

You can transform a quiet corner of your hallway or the space under your stairs into a compact yet practical workspace. This can be particularly useful in homes where space is at a premium. Equip your new WFH space with a streamlined desk, comfortable seating, and adequate lighting. 

Ensure A Cohesive Color Scheme

Extend the color palette from your main living areas into the hallway to create a visually seamless transition throughout your home. This doesn’t mean everything needs to match perfectly, but a harmonious blend of shades can enhance your home’s overall flow and feel. “Consider using a lighter or darker shade of the colors in adjacent rooms for a subtle yet effective connection,” Daniel explains.

Pick A Statement Art Piece

Use your hallway’s natural architecture and lighting to highlight a statement piece of art to make your hallway visually attractive. Use strategic placement next to windows or in niches to highlight the piece and create interest. “Art also doesn’t always need to hang on the walls,” Daniel says. “Consider leaning pieces on console tables or integrating them into shelf arrangements for a dynamic setup.”

Daniel Ulfland, co-founder of Flitch, commented:

“In recent years, we’ve seen a significant shift towards maximizing small or underutilized spaces within the home, turning them into areas that are both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. This trend is particularly important in hallways, which are often overlooked during the design process yet offer valuable real estate. 

“When it comes to hallways, implement design solutions that complement rather than compete with the existing space. For example, instead of crowding a narrow passageway with bulky furniture, opt for streamlined, built-in solutions that blend into the walls, or under-the-stairs niches that can be transformed into compact workspaces or storage areas. Utilizing vertical space for shelving or incorporating slender, unobtrusive furniture helps maintain an open, uncluttered feel.

“The choice of color and lighting is also a huge part of how spacious a hallway appears. Light hues and strategically placed mirrors can make a small area feel larger and more inviting, while good lighting will elevate the overall ambiance and functionality of the space.”

About Flitch

Flitch is an online interior styling platform that offers a personalised furniture shopping experience tailored to individual tastes, budgets, and requirements. Founded by Uriel and Daniel, who aimed to revolutionize the furniture shopping process, Flitch promises ease and convenience by handling the search and comparison across 100+ UK retailers. Additionally, the company contributes 10% of all profits to charity, reflecting its commitment to social responsibility.