A Narrow Hallway Wider

If your hallway is long and narrow, chances are it feels a little dark, cramped, perhaps even uninviting. Doors leading into unseen rooms and a distant glow at the far end can conjure up a slightly eerie vibe… like the start of a thriller. But whether you're planning to sell, rent, or simply enjoy your home more, this space deserves attention.

With a few smart tweaks, and no need for a full renovation, you can make your hallway feel brighter, wider and far more welcoming.

1. Clear the Clutter

First things first: declutter. Remove bulky furniture, busy rugs, and excess wall art. Anything that interrupts the natural flow or makes the hallway feel crowded should go. This isn’t about making it bare — it’s about replacing quantity with quality. A streamlined space instantly feels more spacious and elegant.

too much or too little?

2. Bring in the Light

Lighting plays a starring role in any hallway transformation. Switch out warm globes for cool white ones — closer to daylight and much brighter. If possible, consider a tubular skylight. They’re compact, relatively easy to install, and deliver surprising natural light even to interior corridors.

a focal point and uplifting lighting

3. Paint for Illusion

Paint is your best friend here. Stick to a light colour that connects to your home's overall palette — ideally the same tone as your living room, but one or two shades lighter. This helps reflect light and unify spaces.

Here’s a designer’s trick: tall ceilings in a narrow hallway can make it feel even tighter. By stopping the wall colour 15–20cm below the cornice, you visually 'lower' the ceiling and make the walls appear further apart. Adding a slimline cornice at this line will complete the effect beautifully.

making the ceiling area seem wider

4. Choose the Right Furniture

Scale matters. That antique dresser may be charming, but not in a tight hallway. Opt instead for slimline pieces with narrow legs that leave more floor visible. The more floor you can see, the bigger the space will feel.

5. Style with Intention

Keep styling minimal but impactful. A mirror can work wonders, bouncing light and opening up the space visually. Artwork can draw the eye forward, but avoid overcrowding — choose simple, light frames and space them generously. On your console or shelf, opt for a few well-chosen decorative objects that don’t protrude beyond the edge.

Your hallway doesn’t have to be the forgotten space between rooms. With just a few thoughtful changes — declutter, brighten, scale back and style smart — you can turn it into a feature rather than an oppressive space. And that’s design magic anyone can achieve.

James Treble is an ambassador for Planet Ark and firmly believes in sensible purchasing, recycling and creative re-purposing. James has three decades of accumulated experience in the Building Industry, Real Estate and Interior Design and regularly shares his knowledge and experience in adding value to properties through effective design & styling. Watch his free videos on YouTube, and follow him on Facebook and Instagram for more free information. Learn more from James' knowledge via his FREE online shows James Bought A House (a renovation) and James Bought A Guest House (a brand new build).