15 Long Entry Hallway Ideas That Make a Narrow Space Feel Wider

Narrow hallways don’t have to feel cramped or uninviting. With a few clever design tricks, you can create a spacious, welcoming vibe that makes your long entryway shine. From paint colors to furniture choices, here are 15 ideas that will help transform your hallway into a place that feels wider and more inviting.

Add A Runner Rug

A runner rug can be a simple yet effective way to enhance a long entry hallway. In the image, the runner rug stretches down the center, guiding the eye and creating a sense of flow. The intricate design adds character without overwhelming the space.

Choosing a rug that complements the hallway’s color scheme can make the area feel more inviting. In this case, the warm tones of the wood floor and the soft hues of the walls work beautifully with the rug’s pattern. This harmony helps to visually widen the narrow space.

Runner rugs also serve a practical purpose. They protect the floor from wear and tear while providing a cozy touch. Plus, they can help absorb sound, making the hallway feel more serene. Whether you opt for a bold pattern or a subtle design, a runner rug is a great addition to any entryway.

Use A Mirror To Brighten It

Mirrors can work wonders in narrow hallways. They reflect light and create an illusion of space, making the area feel wider and more inviting. In the image, a stylish mirror is placed on the wall, enhancing the brightness of the hallway.

The round mirror with a sunburst design adds a touch of personality. It draws the eye and serves as a focal point, breaking up the long stretch of the hallway. This design choice not only brightens the space but also adds a modern flair.

Pairing the mirror with a light color palette, like the soft whites and light beige seen here, helps to amplify the effect. The combination of natural light from the door and the mirror’s reflection creates a warm, welcoming vibe.

Consider adding a console table beneath the mirror, as shown. This provides a practical space for decorative items or everyday essentials, making the hallway functional and stylish.

Create A Gallery Wall

Creating a gallery wall is a fun way to make a narrow hallway feel wider and more inviting. The image shows a beautifully arranged collection of framed artwork and mirrors along one side of a long hallway. This setup draws the eye along the space, making it feel less cramped.

Using different frame styles and sizes adds character and interest. The mix of art pieces, from photographs to abstract designs, creates a personal touch. Mirrors, like the ones in the image, can also help reflect light, enhancing the feeling of openness.

To start your own gallery wall, gather your favorite pieces and lay them out on the floor first. This way, you can play around with the arrangement before committing to the wall. Remember to leave some space between frames for a balanced look. Hang them at eye level for the best effect, and don’t shy away from mixing in some decorative elements like small plants or sculptures.

Install Wall Sconces

Wall sconces are a fantastic way to brighten up a long entry hallway. In the image, you can see how the sconces are placed on either side of the walls, creating a warm and inviting glow. This lighting choice not only illuminates the space but also adds a touch of style.

Using sconces helps to draw the eye along the hallway, making it feel less narrow. The soft light they emit contrasts beautifully with the darker elements, like the door and the rich wood flooring. This balance can make a long, narrow space feel more open and welcoming.

Another great aspect of wall sconces is their versatility. They come in various designs, so you can choose ones that match your personal style. Whether you prefer modern, traditional, or something in between, there’s a sconce that will fit right in.

When installing sconces, consider the height and spacing. Placing them at eye level creates a more inviting atmosphere. Pairing them with mirrors, as shown in the image, can also enhance the light and make the hallway feel even larger.

Place A Slim Console Table

A slim console table can work wonders in a long entry hallway. It adds style without overwhelming the space. The image shows a beautiful example of this idea. The table is sleek and fits perfectly against the wall, leaving plenty of room to walk.

On the table, you can see a few decorative items like a vase and candles. These touches bring warmth and personality to the hallway. The mirror above the table not only serves as a functional piece but also creates an illusion of more space, making the hallway feel wider.

Adding a plant next to the console table introduces a bit of nature, which can brighten up the area. This combination of elements helps create a welcoming atmosphere right from the moment you step inside.

Add Baskets Under The Console

Narrow hallways can feel cramped, but adding baskets under a console table is a smart way to create both style and storage. In the image, you can see a sleek console table with a few charming baskets tucked underneath. This setup not only keeps the space organized but also adds a touch of warmth.

The baskets come in different materials and colors, which can complement your hallway’s decor. They are perfect for stashing away items like shoes, hats, or even pet supplies. This keeps the area tidy and makes it easy to grab what you need as you head out the door.

Using baskets also helps to break up the visual space. Instead of a long, empty stretch, the baskets add texture and interest. This simple addition can make your hallway feel wider and more inviting. So, if you’re looking to enhance your narrow space, consider adding some stylish baskets under your console table!

Paint With A Light Neutral Color

Choosing a light neutral color for your hallway can work wonders. This approach creates an open and airy feel, making narrow spaces appear wider. The soft tones reflect light beautifully, enhancing the overall brightness of the area.

In the image, you can see how the light neutral walls complement the elegant decor. The subtle shades allow the natural light from the front door to fill the space, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This is especially important in long hallways, where darker colors can make the area feel cramped.

Pairing light colors with stylish furniture, like the sleek tables shown, adds character without overwhelming the space. The combination of light walls and carefully chosen decor can transform your hallway into a welcoming entry point.

Add One Accent Wall

Creating an accent wall is a smart way to make a long, narrow hallway feel more inviting. In the image, we see a hallway with a striking dark blue wall that draws the eye. This bold choice contrasts beautifully with the lighter beige walls, adding depth and character.

The accent wall serves as a focal point, breaking up the monotony of the space. It helps to visually widen the hallway by directing attention towards the end. This technique can make the area feel less cramped and more open.

Incorporating artwork or decorative elements on the accent wall can enhance its appeal. The framed pictures on the side walls complement the accent wall, creating a cohesive look. Adding plants, like the one seen in the image, can also bring life to the space and make it feel more welcoming.

Use Hooks For Daily Items

Hooks can be a simple yet effective solution for organizing your entryway. In the image, you can see a stylish setup that makes the most of a narrow hallway. The hooks are perfect for hanging bags, jackets, and hats, keeping everything within reach.

Using hooks not only saves space but also adds a personal touch to your hallway. You can choose hooks that match your style, whether it’s modern, rustic, or something in between. This way, your entryway feels welcoming and functional.

Incorporating hooks helps to clear clutter from the floor, making the space feel wider. When everything has its place, it creates a more open atmosphere. Plus, it’s a great way to showcase your favorite accessories or seasonal items.

Add A Bench If Space Allows

Adding a bench to your entryway can really change the feel of a narrow hallway. It provides a place to sit, making the space more functional. In the image, you can see a stylish bench that fits perfectly in the area, creating a welcoming vibe.

The bench not only serves a practical purpose but also adds to the overall decor. With soft cushions and a sleek design, it enhances the look of the hallway. The round mirror above it reflects light, making the space feel larger and brighter.

Next to the bench, a tall plant brings in a touch of nature. This greenery can make the hallway feel more inviting and fresh. A well-placed bench can be a great spot for putting on shoes or just taking a moment to relax.

When choosing a bench, think about the style and color that will match your hallway. A simple, clean design like the one in the image works well in narrow spaces. It keeps the area open while still providing comfort and style.

Use Tall Plants

When it comes to making a narrow hallway feel more spacious, tall plants can work wonders. In the image, you can see a bright, airy hallway lined with lush green plants. These tall beauties draw the eye upward, creating an illusion of height and openness.

Positioning these plants along the sides of the hallway adds a touch of nature and warmth. The vibrant green leaves contrast beautifully with the clean, white walls, making the space feel inviting. Plus, the natural light streaming in enhances the overall brightness, further contributing to a more expansive feel.

Using tall plants is not just about aesthetics; they can also improve air quality. Whether you choose a striking fiddle leaf fig or a graceful bird of paradise, these plants add life and character to your entryway. They can be a great conversation starter, too!

Hang Floating Shelves

Floating shelves are a fantastic way to utilize vertical space in a long hallway. They add style without taking up floor space, making the area feel more open. In the image, you can see how the shelves are arranged on either side of the hallway, creating a balanced look.

These shelves can hold plants, photos, or decorative items, adding personality to the space. The warm wood tones contrast nicely with the white walls, enhancing the overall brightness of the hallway. This setup not only provides storage but also serves as a mini-gallery for your favorite pieces.

Consider varying the heights of the shelves for a more dynamic look. You can mix and match items to keep it interesting. With a little creativity, floating shelves can transform a narrow hallway into a stylish and inviting area.

Keep Doors And Trim Clean And Matching

A clean and matching look can make a narrow hallway feel much wider. In the image, the doors and trim are all in a crisp white, which creates a seamless flow. This uniformity helps to visually expand the space, making it feel less cramped.

The rich brown door stands out nicely against the white trim, adding a touch of warmth without overwhelming the area. Keeping doors and trim in similar colors can create a cohesive look that draws the eye down the hallway, enhancing the feeling of openness.

Notice how the light fixtures also complement the overall design. Their simple yet stylish appearance adds to the clean aesthetic. When everything matches, it not only looks good but also creates a welcoming atmosphere.

Add A Statement Light Fixture

When it comes to making a narrow hallway feel wider, a statement light fixture can work wonders. The image shows a stylish pendant light hanging from the ceiling, casting a warm glow that brightens the space. This kind of lighting not only illuminates but also draws the eye upward, creating an illusion of height.

Choosing a fixture with a unique design can add character to your hallway. The light in the image features a chic, modern look with a touch of elegance. Such fixtures can serve as a focal point, making the hallway feel more inviting and less cramped.

Incorporating mirrors, as seen on the walls, can enhance the effect of the light fixture. They reflect light, making the space appear larger and more open. Together, these elements can transform a simple hallway into a stylish entryway.

Style The End Of The Hallway

Styling the end of your hallway can make a big difference in how spacious it feels. In the image, we see a long, bright hallway that feels inviting and open. The light colors and clean lines create a sense of flow, making the space appear wider.

At the end of the hallway, there’s a door that leads outside, which adds depth and draws the eye. This is a great way to create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. The use of artwork along the walls adds personality and charm, while the lighting fixtures provide warmth.

Incorporating a console table with decorative items, like vases and books, can also enhance the end of the hallway. It breaks up the long stretch and gives a focal point for visitors. Consider adding a mirror, as it reflects light and creates an illusion of more space.

Overall, styling the end of your hallway not only makes it more functional but also adds character. With thoughtful design choices, you can transform a narrow space into a welcoming area that feels much larger.