HOW TO CREATE A WELCOMING HALLWAY

It’s the space that sets the tone for the rest of your home, but often the hallway gets completely overlooked, so we asked the experts to share their insider tips…

Does your hallway make a great first impression, or is it a jumble of clutter and coats? This area needs to work hard and look good – that’s a hard balance to strike. Here, style and design experts offer advice to help you max your hallway’s potential.

WHERE DO I START?

Jenna Choate, the co-founder of Interior Fox, says the hallway is an area of the home that should be tackled first. ‘There are so many ways to make the best first impression, even in a small entrance. Create a statement with a pendant or introduce pattern and colour with a striking wallpaper. If you like a minimalist look, make it feel light and airy with a strategically placed console and oversized mirror.’ Wil Law, home design stylist at John Lewis & Partners, adds, ‘Too often we treat the hallway as a practical space, or leave it to last, when it really should define your home – and your style.’ Paul Deckland, buying director at The Cotswold Company, agrees: ‘A well-styled hallway sets the tone for a home.’

HOW DO I MAKE IT LESS OF A TRANSITIONAL SPACE?

‘Think of the hallway as an individual room rather than just a place you pass through,’ says Jenna. Wil believes that, as this is not an area you dwell in, you can go bolder here than with other rooms. ‘Ensure it makes you smile,’ he adds. Paul stresses the power of the space: ‘The hallway holds a unique position as the first area you enter. This makes it the perfect canvas for personal moments and style alike.’

ANY ADVICE FOR CREATING A COHESIVE SCHEME?