In most homes, the hallway is a transient pass through space. Consequently, it's low on our decorating list, and many of us prefer to devote our cash and attention to more “functional rooms” such as family rooms and kitchens. When it comes to sprucing up the foyer, we seldom devise a legitimate course of action. Instead, we will often use whatever is left from other “more important” rooms. But consider this:  with a minimal investment in time and money you can select the right colors, lighting and furniture to take your entry from OK to WOW!

Hallway design tips
 • Hang a mirror in your hallway to reflect light and create depth.
 • Keep your hallway clutter-free at all times.
 • Choose narrow, streamlined furniture and keep it to a minimum.
 • Allow light to flow wherever possible: dark and dingy just won't do unless you’re going for a nuevo horror film look.


Hickory Manor House Regency Convex Mirror, contact us to order


Color your hall
A dark hallway says all the wrong things about your home. Use color to make the entrance as light and appealing as possible. The generally advice clients to steer clear of dark and bold colors.  But a dark traditional jewel tone color such as red, blue or green would add enormous impact in a large home or grand period home.


1920's D.C. Georgian rocks a red foyer

 
Some of our faux artistry against a deep red walls make a Leesburg,Virginia client's entry niche spectacular

However, if your hallway is narrow or small neutrals invariably work best.  By all means don't be tempted to use a dark color beneath a chair (dado) rail as it will make the walls look shorter and the space feel claustrophobic.

 Recently Installed Wrought Iron Balusters

Let in the light
If your hall has a low ceiling, uplights will give the impression of greater height. If you have lofty, high ceilings they're perfect for displaying feature lighting. Go for a luxe look with a beautiful chandelier. Maximize natural light wherever possible. If your hallway is dark, perhaps it’s time to consider replacing your solid wood front door for one with a window and/or sidelights. Windowed entry doors will allow the light to bounce into your hallway. You may also consider painting a dark staircase all or partially white.
Hinkley Casa Olde Black Sconce, contact us for pricing



Currey & Company Wunderlust Chandelier, contact us for pricing

Furniture
Only store the absolute essentials in your entry space. Anything other than the bare minimum will likely tilt you towards clutterdom. A narrow console table or chest is a good choices, and the chest can easily hide the mail, keys and such that tend to accumulate in entry spaces.

 The perfect hall chest:  Oriental Accent's Pandora Chest is available in our Marketplace

                                                                                                                ...or

Port 68's Madison Bombe chest, avialable in our store

...or

The slim, curvaceous Port 68 Zoe Half-round console, also available in our store.  All would look fabulous in most any foyer!