Working with small hallways

Added: 08-05-2012 13:09:22

We all know how impressive a grand entrance hall can be in a property. The double height ceiling, the sweeping stair case, the gorgeous feature walls with beautiful wallpaper and the large window with sumptuous flowing drapes framing it, these entrance spaces make a big statement. Creating an impression is easy when you have loads of space to work with but how do you create a wow factor when you’re working with a small space?

When working with a small hallway the first thing is to try and make it feel as big as possible. Remember that light colours recede and dark colour proceeds. So keep the bases of your hall light and bright to create the illusion that it is bigger than it really is.

Use light cream or taupe coloured paint on the wall and keep flooring bright with cream tiles, neutral carpet or lighter wood toned wood flooring like oak or maple.

With your hall looking as big as possible it is time to inject a little personality and wow factor. Wallpaper can be one great way to add that great impression as you enter your home.

One wall papered in striking design can add a much-needed injection to a boring hall.

Simply wallpaper the wall opposite the door as you enter, so it can be seen upstairs and down stairs. Remember the space is low so limit it to one wall and choose a paper that is bright and maybe has a light reflective metallic detailing, to help make the space feel bigger.

Maximising the space under stairs can be another way to create a big impression in a small space. You could sit a feature chair under there or stencil one of the walls under the stairs, this will draw your eye into this underutilised space and make it feel bigger.

If you have a window in your hall remember to make the most of it. One of the most impressive things in a large entrance hall is its grand window dressings, so do not neglect your windows either. Voluptuous drapes on a beautiful pole for the entrance would single handily make your home feel luxurious as you enter. If you feel your windows are too small for curtains you could do the same principle with a roman blind with some beautiful trimmings.

Despite the fact your hallway is small you could still use art work as feature in your space; just remember to not overdo it. Use one or two key pieces as show stoppers and then leave the rest of your walls plain.

So use the small and compact excuse no longer, the small hall has a lot potential just waiting to be unleashed. At The Fabric centre we have the perfect wallpaper, curtains, roman blinds and fabrics to turn your hall into an impressive entrance space. (The Fabric centre, Port Road, Letterkenny, Tel:074 9167858, www.fccurtaincompany.com)