Hallways can be tricky in small homes because they usually contain many doors, no outlets or windows. This can make the space feel cold and dark. Over the next month, we are working on making this space bright, cheerful and functional. And we are planning on doing that with paint, shelving, no-wire sconces, art, plants, and a thoughtfully chosen rug/ runner.
Before we get into the specific choices we are making for our space, I want to share some general tips about planning a hallway makeover. Let’s get into it!
Tips for Transforming a Small, Dark Hallway
First, take a look at the challenges of the hallway. Our hallways is about 12×3 with a low ceiling that has attic access. It has the entrance to the kitchen, plus it has 3 doors (2 doors lead to bedrooms and 1 leads to a bathroom). The only light fixture is at the end of the hallway, and it really isn’t very helpful there. In addition, there is a traditionally-sized floor vent in about midway through hugging the wall. All this to say that our hallway is a blank, dark space. In the winters, this little hallway feels even more dreary because I’ve yet to decorate it or put any love there at all.
Next, look at what the space already has going for it. I mean it! Really dig deep to see what small ways this space is unique or helpful. For us, it is that one end of the hallway is a bit wider than the other. Also, There are other 3 large sections of hallway where art can be hung. You see how I’m really stretching here to find any good qualities.
Next, measure to imagine the possibilities. This is key because it is the critical step to begin considering what can actually happen here. It can help you understand the size of furniture, art, rugs, lights, and other items you will eventually put into the space.
Then, consider a white paint. I’m a fan of dark academia styling. I love a moody library, dark paneling, a fireplace, and cozy atmosphere. However, I also love the sun, and Chicago can be so dreary and cloudy in the winter. Having a space that is bright and light can make a big difference in my mood. I recommend that if a space has no windows or natural light, then white paint is a great option. Joyfully Growing Blog has some excellent tips about how to choose white paint! I used Behr Ultra Bright White in the eggshell finish because I loved how bright it is, and I can buy it off the shelf at Home Depot.
Another idea is to paint the trim and doors in the same white paint, but I’ve seen some incredible interior doors in black or even pops of color. For example, I love Threads and Blooms “24 Hour Hallway Makeover.” She uses such unique colors in the small hallway to brighten it up!
Now add some light. Again, if there is no natural light coming in to the space, then some form of light should be in the space. But if you have a tiny hallway where no furniture (even a slim shoe cabinet) can fit, then you can consider a wall sconce. Actually, I think this is the best choice to keep anything off the floor that may make the space feel even more crowded and cramped. There are many excellent options for sconces online, and of course, there are hacks to turn a hard-wired or plug-in sconce into a battery-operated light. I will share what we are planning below.
Another point to make here is that if there is a hard-wired overhead light in the space, don’t count on it to make the space feel brighter. Overhead lights are notoriously too much, so adding a soft but warm sconce is definitely worth it.
Then consider what this space can do for your home, and add necessary pieces. Because we don’t have a linen closet in our house at the moment, it would be very helpful to use part of this hallway to store extra hand towels and other items, like extra toothpaste, etc. in baskets on some wall shelves. The section of our hallway that has a 9 inch recess may prove enough to get this done!
Next, add some plants! Live plants! Adding some green in the space will add some color, life, and warmth to an otherwise dark space. Think about if you want to put a plant on the floor, or up on a shelf, or even hang from the ceiling! Wild Creative Project has a post about plants that will thrive in windowless rooms. We are considering some options, but more on our top choice is below.
Next, consider how art can make this a happy space. My husband and I are very picky about what art we hang in our house, which is sometimes why we never hang anything. My husband only wants things on our walls that my daughters and I create or special photos from our life and travels. This makes buying stock art difficult or impossible. For me, I only want things on my walls that make me stop and smile or remember a special time. I am considering a few art pieces I have made for this space, but I’m also thinking about colorful photos from Texas summers here as well.
Lastly, think about the texture you want underfoot. Because of the small space, you can make this a fun, shaggy rug, or do something a bit unique that still threads with the rest of your house. I am trying to create a neutral and calm vibe throughout the house, and especially because our home is so small, I don’t want to add a rug that is too different from the rest of our spaces.
Our Game Plan for a Bright Hallway
As you can see from the visual, we are trying to create a calm space. We are starting with adding molding and paint to the doors this weekend, along with new doorknobs. We are still undecided on the doorknobs, but more on that in an upcoming post!
The following week, we will install wall sconces with the magic light bulb! We will also install the shelves.
Finally, we will lay down carpets, select plants, and add art and accessories. I can’t wait to share how this space unfolds here on the blog!
As usual, all the sources are linked above. If you want to see more of my ideas for brightening a dark hallway, check out my Pinterest board where I’m collecting tons of inspiration!