Is your hallway dull? Bright and beautiful hallways are what we all strive for, but it’s not always possible to make those hallways functional and striking as well. In Britain most of the average homes are made with the smallest entryway possible. This is because space is quite scarce. We have the living spaces like the lounge, dining room, kitchen etc., downstairs. The bedrooms and bathrooms are usually upstairs. The stairs and the space surrounding it are generally as small as possible. Whatever space you have – big or small- here are some ways you can add function and charm to your entryways or hallways.

Get rid of your dull hallway

functional-entryways

Our hallway (looking from the front door)

A small table

A simple table inside your front door can hide a multitude of sins. Just get a long table cloth which complements your decor and store baskets or boxes under the table (or on shelves if there are any). Gloves, hats etc., can be stored in these boxes/bins/baskets so you’ll have them at hand when going out. Best of all, they won’t be seen by visitors because they’re hidden under the table.

Recycle an old shelf

Revamp or recycle an old shelf. Place a row of hanging hooks under the shelf and store everything out in the open. You can use shoe boxes covered in pretty wrapping paper (or baskets) to keep hats, gloves and keys. As long as these compliment your wall or decor, they should look lovely and rustic. Best of all, it’ll be clutter-free and functional.  Don’t forget to add a row of hanging hooks kids’ height if you’ve got children. You can also add a shelf just off the floor and give each child a colour coded bin for hats, scarves, gloves etc.

Re-purpose kitchen tables

Don’t be limited by kitchen tables (with drawers). They’re not just for kitchens. If you find the right one in the right size you can paint it to match the rest of your entryway and use it there. Drawers are especially useful for keys, handbags etc.

Don’t throw out your old bookcases

Narrow bookcases work great for functional entryways. Just flip the bookcase on its side, add legs (this is easily done with a few screws and legs purchased from any furniture shop). Paint it to suit your decor and add baskets or boxes for storage (see more in storage here) in the sectioned areas. You can even add a covered sponge to make a seat, or just some cushions to brighten up and beautify the area. Don’t forget that if the bookshelf is too long, you can always cut it to size. Add a few hooks above your flipped bookshelf, and you have a charming, functional entryway.

Divide your space

If you don’t have an entryway, and your door opens into your living room/lounge, why not divide the area with a bookshelf (the ones without backs that allow you to see through to the other side) or a room divider. Your bookshelf can double up as a divider and storage space for your functional entryway.

Mirrors are a must for beautiful and functional entryways

Whatever you do, don’t forget a mirror. Even if you buy a second-hand mirror, use one for your entryway. Mirrors attract light and make small spaces feel and look bigger. A mirror placed in the right place can literally make your entryway/hallway look twice the size it actually is.

See our entryway and under-stairs makeover for more information.

Is your hallway dull? Have you done some work to your hallway lately to make it more functional or striking? Please share your thoughts and tips in the comment section below. If you enjoyed ‘Functional Entryways’ please share it on your social networking sites. Thank you.