Decorating Hallways: Bedroom Transitions, Creative Ways

Hallways are often overlooked, but they are important spaces that can be spruced up with a few decorating tricks. Since hallways tend to be narrow, the walls are an important feature. Opt for a warm paint colour, elegant wall panelling, or patterned wallpaper to lend the space character. You can also add wall lights or sconces for a gentler glow than overhead lighting. Hallways are also great places for gallery walls or statement art pieces. If your hallway is narrow, avoid using vertical stripes, as these can make the space seem longer and more narrow. Instead, go for horizontal stripes or a colourful rug to make the space appear wider. You can also add a console table, a bench, or some clever storage options, such as floating shelves or a coat rack.

Gallery walls

Choose a Colour Scheme

Pick a colour that you love and make it the focal point of the gallery wall. Opt for different frames or art pieces in a single hue to create a dramatic effect. This could include family photos that feature your chosen colour or simply include it in some capacity. The more emphasis on one colour, the more striking the end result will be.

Mix Old and New

Instead of choosing solely modern, abstract paintings or traditional-style art, get a mix of both. This creates an interesting dynamic and allows each piece to shine without distracting from the other art. Keep it cohesive by choosing an even number of each art style.

Get Personal with a Photo Wall

Think of this gallery wall as a display of your life and what you admire. Include family pictures, important tickets, postcards, or other mementos from special moments. This is a great way to showcase your personality and highlight what you love to your guests and family members.

Black and White

Black and white art pieces and photographs ensure the gallery wall matches the existing design of your home. This bold choice can give your hallway a classic, old-Hollywood look or, if you prefer a more modern aesthetic, opt for neutral paintings for a chic, colourless design.

Vary the Sizes

When hanging your gallery wall, it is advantageous to select a variety of frame sizes. A good rule of thumb is to choose two larger items and then fill in the rest with smaller pieces. This adds interest and keeps the wall from looking too cramped. If you have less space in a narrow hallway, simply use smaller picture frames to create a mini gallery wall.

Repeat Colours

Unless you are going for a monochromatic look, it is best to keep your gallery wall cohesive by repeating the same handful of colours throughout your pictures. This will create a unified and elegant display.

Space Your Pieces

Don't bunch all your artwork together. Instead, give each piece about 3 inches of space on all sides. It doesn't have to be perfectly spaced or uniform, but this negative space will keep the gallery from looking overcrowded.

Statement mirrors

When choosing a statement mirror, consider the size and style that best suits the space. For a bold and dramatic look, opt for an oversized mirror. A large nickel-plated swirl mirror or a sunburst mirror can be a stunning focal point. Alternatively, you can group together a collection of smaller mirrors to create a unique and eye-catching display.

If you want to make the hallway appear larger and brighter, a minimalist approach with a slim-edged, black-framed, oversized mirror is a great choice. This simple design will add interest, texture, and light to the space without overwhelming it.

To make the area more functional, consider placing a console table or a bench beneath the mirror. This provides a practical space for when you're coming and going, while also creating a stylish and organised hallway.

Bold colours and patterns

Hallways are often overlooked, but they are important transitional spaces that can be spruced up with bold colours and patterns. Here are some ideas to decorate a hallway between bedrooms:

Wallpaper

A bold-patterned wallpaper can be a great way to make a statement in your hallway. Consider a large-scale pattern if your hallway is long, or a tone-on-tone pattern for a less dramatic look. You could also try a tropical wallpaper design, or a floral pattern with muted shades of green, white, yellow, and blush pink. Alternatively, a simple striped wallpaper can create the illusion of more space and make your hallway appear taller.

Paint

If you prefer paint to wallpaper, you can still experiment with bold colours. A confident use of a bright colour like yellow can create a welcoming and vibrant space. You could also try a deep shade of blue or green, or a combination of colours like pink, green, yellow, and blue. If you're feeling really adventurous, try an ombre effect with multiple hues.

Flooring

Your choice of flooring can also impact the overall look of your hallway. Pale wooden floors or light-coloured laminate can create the illusion of more space and enhance the sense of openness in your home. Alternatively, tiles or wooden floors with a hallway runner can be a stylish and comfortable option.

Art and Accessories

To complement the bold colours and patterns in your hallway, you can add some eye-catching art and accessories. A gallery wall of colourful artwork or family photos in simple frames can be a great way to showcase your favourite pieces. You could also try a tapestry instead of traditional framed art, or add some decorative objects like mirrors, lamps, or vases.

Furniture

When it comes to furniture, consider a slim console table or a narrow dresser to provide storage and a surface for decorative items. You could also add a statement chair or a bench, providing a functional spot to sit and creating a cosy atmosphere.

With these ideas in mind, you can create a bold and vibrant hallway that makes a lasting impression.

Creative storage

To enhance the sense of space and introduce a decorative element, mirrors are a great option. They reflect light and make the hallway feel larger. You can hang a single statement mirror or create a gallery wall with a set of smaller mirrors for an eclectic look.

Another way to optimise storage is by utilising wall space. Hang hooks for everyday essentials like jackets and bags, and incorporate storage baskets to keep smaller items organised. If you have the room, a wall unit with a bench and cubbies can be a great way to designate storage for different family members.

Finally, don't forget about lighting! Statement lighting fixtures, such as a Moravian star pendant or sleek pendant lights, can brighten the space and serve as eye-catching focal points.

Lighting

The lighting in a hallway is very important, especially if the space is narrow or dark. A combination of natural and artificial lighting can be used to create a well-lit and inviting space.

If your hallway has windows, maximise the natural light by using light curtains or blinds, or even leaving the windows bare if privacy allows. You can also add a mirror opposite a window to reflect light and make the space feel larger.

For artificial lighting, consider a combination of overhead lighting and wall lights. A row of sconces can add drama and interest to the space, especially if you choose intricate designs. Just be mindful of the projection of the sconces if your hallway is very narrow. Lanterns and Moravian Star lights are also great options for hallway lighting, adding a sculptural element to the space.

For a gentler glow, opt for wall-mounted lights or picture lights above artwork. You can also create a cosy atmosphere with table lamps placed on console tables or benches. And don't forget the power of candles for a soft, warm light.

Finally, don't underestimate the impact of a statement light fixture. Whether it's a chandelier or a playful, colourful design, a unique light fixture can become a focal point and add a touch of whimsy to your hallway.

Frequently asked questions