Image: Clair Strong Interior Design

The hallway is an oft-neglected space, an undecorated haven for piles of muddy shoes and damp coats. It can seem like a really difficult part of the house to give some style to because it’s not quite a room (so you can’t fill it with furniture) and it can be an awkward shape.

I’ve had many people ask me how they can transform their bland, cluttered and boring hallways so today I’ve put together a little guide to making the most of yours. It’s the perfect weekend DIY project.

A Fresh Coat of Paint

Sometimes all it takes is a fresh coat of paint to really lift a space. Neutral colours are always a safe bet, particularly in narrow hallways, where lighter colours can help give the illusion of space.

That said, some of the most striking hallways I have ever seen make very clever use of bright colours, so don’t be afraid to show your creative side here.

Statement Flooring

The hallway is the first thing anyone sees when they enter your house so this is your chance to really make an impact.

Patterned tile is one of the most effective ways to wow. It adds interest, colour and depth without being overbearing and tile works equally well in both modern and traditional style homes. As a practical aside, tiles are easy to keep clean, which is ideal in a traffic-heavy entryway.

Smart Storage

Now it’s time to address the clutter that seems to find its way into every hallway. If you don’t already have a built in cupboard or closet, you may need a home for shoes, coats and bags. There are hundreds of options out there, from narrow, wall-mounted shoe storage to stylish all-in-one coat hooks and benches. It’s all about finding furniture that fits the shape and style of the space.