Your hallway might not be the first place you think to decorate — some people don’t even see it as a ‘room’ at all. But it’s the gateway to your home, and the space that sets the tone for everything beyond.
From small hallway wallpaper ideas to clever tricks for brightening up dark corners, there are endless ways to give this overlooked area the glow-up it deserves. With a little creativity, your hallway can be just as stylish and inviting as any other room.
Read on for fresh hallway decor ideas, plus expert tips from Caroline Woolmer, Head of Product Design at I Love Wallpaper.
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What to consider when choosing decor for a hallway
Before you fall in love with a wallpaper pattern or piece of furniture, it’s worth thinking about how it will work in the space. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
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Size of your hallway — Smaller or narrow hallways benefit from lighter colours and subtle wallpaper patterns to keep things feeling open. Larger spaces can handle bolder prints, darker shades, or statement furniture without feeling too cramped.
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Light levels — Got a dark hallway? Opt for brighter tones, metallic accents, or mirrors to bounce light around. If you’re lucky enough to have lots of natural light, you can afford to be braver with deeper colours and richer finishes.
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Colour scheme — Think about how your hallway connects to the rest of your home. Matching or complementing tones will help create a cohesive flow from room to room.
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Scale and proportion — Big, bold patterns or oversized furniture can overwhelm a small hallway. In tighter spaces, stick to slim furniture, delicate lighting, and wallpaper with subtle textures. Larger hallways, on the other hand, are the perfect place to go big with statement pieces.
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Practicality — Hallways are high-traffic areas, so durability matters. Hardwearing flooring, wipeable paint finishes, and sturdy wallpaper will all stand up to daily wear and tear while still looking stylish. To learn more, read our guide on how to clean walls without damaging wallpaper or paint.
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What’s already on your walls — Take stock of your starting point. If you already have wallpaper or paint on the walls, think about whether it complements your new hallway decor ideas. For example, a neutral painted wall could be elevated with a patterned wallpaper feature wall, or existing dark wallpaper might be swapped out for a lighter shade of paint.
Updating your walls might take a little extra time, but it’s definitely a DIY-friendly job. Stripping old wallpaper and prepping the surface properly makes all the difference. A smooth wall is the secret to a flawless, long-lasting finish. Need help? Our blog on how to remove wallpaper walks you through every step.
- Your personal style — Above all, your hallway should feel like you. Whether that means wallpaper with timeless stripes, bold artwork on the walls, or a pop of colour in your accessories, pick pieces that make you smile every time you walk through the door.
Hallway decor ideas and tips
Add storage
@caradiseblog styles Banana Leaf in Monochrome
Start by decluttering your hallway to create a clean, inviting space. Stylish storage doesn’t just keep things organised; it also adds character. Wall-mounted shelves and decorative hooks make clever use of vertical space, while also giving guests a spot to hang their coats. You could even use shelves to display plants, books, or art prints, adding personality and colour without crowding the floor.
Don’t forget about shoe storage. A slim bench with hidden compartments or a neat rack keeps everyday essentials tucked away while doubling up as a practical seating spot.
Caroline says: “It’s the little details like clever hooks, shelves, and shoe storage that make your hallway feel considered, comfortable, and ready to welcome people into your home.”
Create flow into the rest of your home
“When you’re decorating your hallway, don’t see it in isolation,” explains Caroline. “Think about the spaces you can see from it, like the kitchen or living room, and pick colours or patterns that complement them.”
This doesn’t mean everything has to match perfectly. Instead, look for subtle ways to carry a theme from one space to the next. A colour picked out from your kitchen cabinetry, a finish echoed in your living room, or even a texture used elsewhere in your home can be introduced through wallpaper, paint, or accessories in the hallway.
Caroline adds, “If your kitchen has navy cabinets, for instance, a wallpaper with a subtle navy detail or the same-coloured furniture in the hallway will instantly tie the two spaces together. It’s a simple way to create flow and make your whole home feel more cohesive.”
This thoughtful approach ensures your hallway feels like a natural extension of your home, rather than a separate or forgotten space.
Add a console table
@house_of_chadwick styles Classic Wood Panel Wallpaper
A console table is one of the most versatile additions you can make to your hallway. Slim and elegant, it doesn’t take up much space but instantly adds both style and function. Use it to showcase your favourite ornaments, candles, or photo frames. It’s small touches that make your hallway feel more personal and inviting.
To maximise practicality, choose a console with drawers or a shelf underneath for everyday essentials like keys, mail, or baskets for storage.
Caroline says: “Think of a console table as your hallway’s welcome station. It’s the perfect spot to add character with decorative pieces, but to also keep the things you grab on your way out neatly to hand.”
Statement lighting
@nicolassavvyhome styles Lux Textures Chenille Wallpaper in Ivory
A statement light can completely change the look of your hallway. Whether you go for a chic pendant, a vintage chandelier, or more modern wall lights, the right piece will brighten your entrance and add instant style.
“Don’t just think about function when it comes to hallway lighting,” explains Caroline. “Lighting can really make a big impact and the space feel warm and welcoming.”
“I always suggest layering lighting. Pair a ceiling pendant with wall sconces or even a little lamp on a console. It instantly adds depth, and when you use warm bulbs, it brings out the texture in wallpaper beautifully, especially metallic or fabric finishes.”
Mirror magic
@lifeatnumber_.10 styles Beadboard Panel in Ivory
“A mirror is one of the easiest ways to transform a hallway,” says Caroline. “It reflects light to brighten the space and creates the illusion of depth — perfect if your hallway is narrow or on the smaller side.”
“The beauty of mirrors is that they add elegance without taking up any floor space. You can hang one on the wall or style a smaller one on a console. For the best effect, I always suggest placing a large mirror opposite a window or near a light source to really maximise the brightness.”
Round or oval mirrors help soften the look of a hallway and bring a contemporary touch, while a floor-length design makes a bold, dramatic statement. If you want something more playful, try creating a gallery wall with smaller mirrors. It adds character and reflects light from different angles.
Try colour drenching
Caroline says: “Colour drenching — using the same shade across walls, ceilings, and even woodwork — is a clever way to make a hallway feel bigger. By keeping everything in one tone, you remove harsh lines and contrasts that can break up a space. Instead, the eye flows smoothly around the room, which naturally opens it up and makes it feel less narrow. You can even use wallpaper in a similar tone to add subtle texture while keeping that seamless look.”
To learn more about how to use this decor trend in your home, read our guide to colour drenching.
Play with neutral tones
@housetohome_59 styles Lux Textures Chenille in Ivory
Caroline says: “Neutrals are anything but dull — they’re timeless, versatile, and a great foundation for hallway decor. They might feel like a safe starting point, but they’re also endlessly stylish.”
“You could begin with a neutral wallpaper in soft ivory or beige, maybe with a touch of texture or metallic detail for added depth, then build the look from there. Add drama with darker accents like black-framed mirrors or bronze fittings, or keep it light with pale woods and metallic touches.”
“To bring in warmth and character, layer in details like a runner rug, woven baskets, or even greenery. The kind of finishing touches that make a neutral hallway feel well put together.”
Don’t forget the stairs
Your staircase is more than just a way to get from A to B; it’s a design opportunity waiting to be styled. With the right touches, it can become a focal point that creates real personality in your hallway.
A statement runner in a bold colour or pattern can add style, as well as comfort underfoot. It’s also a clever way to bring in texture and pick up tones from your wallpaper or accessories. Don’t forget the bannisters! A fresh coat of paint, wood stain, or even a seasonal garland can make them feel thoughtfully styled.
You can also use the vertical space creatively. A gallery wall running up the stairs draws the eye upwards and tells a story as you move through the home. It’s also a good idea to carry your paint or wallpaper up the staircase wall, as it creates a sense of flow from the hallway.
The key is to choose accents that tie back to your wallpaper and overall scheme, so the staircase feels like a natural extension of your hallway rather than an afterthought.
Lean into horizontal lines
“Horizontal details are a clever way to make a narrow hallway feel wider,” explains Caroline. “Whether it’s wallpaper with linear patterns, panelling, or even a striped stair runner, these lines naturally draw the eye along the space and create the illusion of width. It’s a simple designer’s trick, and you don’t need to go bold either, because even subtle lines can have a big impact.”
Take a seat
“If you’ve got the space, adding seating to your hallway is a simple way to combine comfort and style,” recommends Caroline. “A bench or an upholstered dining chair can instantly make your entrance feel more welcoming. Plus, seating creates a handy spot for visitors to comfortably remove their shoes.”
“If your hallway is narrow, a stool or slim bench can work without taking up too much room.”
Don’t forget the ceiling
Caroline says: “Ceilings are often overlooked, but they’re a brilliant design opportunity in a hallway. Painting them in a light, soft tone can add warmth and, if you use the same shade as the walls, it can even make the room feel bigger.”
“I also love using wallpaper on the ceiling. It’s unexpected and adds personality. You can even run the same wallpaper from the walls up onto the ceiling for a seamless, cocooning look that feels really stylish. Whether you keep it subtle with a pale neutral or go bold with pattern, it’s a detail that can completely change the feel of the space and make your hallway look more considered.”
Frequently asked questions
What are the best colours to paint a hallway?
The best colour for your hallway depends on the mood you want to create.
Light neutrals such as ivory and cream are timeless choices. They’re especially effective in darker hallways, as they reflect light and instantly make the space feel brighter.
For something modern yet calming, greys and muted blues work beautifully. These cooler tones add a sense of sophistication without overwhelming the space.
If you prefer warmth, earthy shades like taupe, sage green, or soft terracotta can make your hallway feel cosy and inviting. These tones pair especially well with natural textures, like wood, rattan, or stone.
When choosing paint colours, it’s also important to consider your flooring and stairs. For example, warm neutrals or greens complement wooden flooring, while pale grey paint may suit darker wood tones.
If you have a stair carpet, consider whether your wall colour balances or contrasts with it. For instance, neutral walls paired with a soft beige carpet will create a calm, seamless look, while crisp white walls against a bold patterned carpet will make the stairs the star of the space.
What are the best small hallway wallpaper ideas?
Caroline says: “In small hallways, lighter wallpaper designs are your best friend as they help the space feel open and airy. Soft neutrals, pastels, and textured wallpapers with subtle patterns all work beautifully. Horizontal lines are another clever trick, as they draw the eye across the space and create the illusion of extra width.
“It’s best to avoid very busy prints in compact areas, as they can feel overwhelming. But if you love bolder designs, try using them on a feature wall instead of every surface. You’ll still get that statement look without overpowering the hallway.”
What kind of wallpaper is best for a hallway?
Hallways are high-traffic areas, so durability is key. Textured, washable, or wipeable wallpapers are smart choices because they’re easier to keep clean and can withstand the knocks and scuffs that come with daily life.
When it comes to style, think about the space you’re working with. In smaller or darker hallways, lighter tones and subtle patterns will help brighten and open things up. If you’ve got more room, you can afford to be bolder. Deeper shades or striking prints can add drama and personality without making the space feel cramped.
How can I brighten a dark hallway?
The simplest way to lift a dark hallway is to choose wallpaper in paler shades such as ivory, cream, light grey, or pastels. These lighter tones reflect more light and instantly make the space feel fresher and more open.
“Mirrors are one of the most effective tricks for brightening up a hallway,” says Caroline. “By reflecting both natural and artificial light, they bounce brightness around the space and stop darker corners from feeling gloomy. A large mirror opposite a window will double the effect of daylight, while smaller mirrors placed near lamps or sconces can spread a warm glow across the walls.”
Accessories also play a big role. Lighter-coloured furniture, rugs, and artwork will keep the space from feeling heavy, while glass or gloss finishes can help reflect light too. Even small touches, like a pale runner or a painted banister in a lighter shade, can make a noticeable difference.
What colours will lighten a dark, narrow hallway?
Soft neutrals like ivory or beige are ideal, as they reflect light and make the space feel larger. Pastel tones such as sage green, blush, or pale blue also work beautifully, adding a hint of colour without making the hallway feel closed in or too dark.
How can I visually widen a narrow halfway?
Horizontal lines are a designer’s trick for making spaces feel broader. Try striped wallpaper, panelling, or even a striped stair runner to draw the eye across the hallway. Lighter wall colours combined with mirrors on the side walls will enhance the effect.
