10 decorating ideas for long, narrow corridors
The decoration of long, narrow corridors is often neglected. Yet, with a little creativity, they can become functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces. By optimizing lighting, choosing the right colors and using mirrors, for example, you can transform these passages into veritable design galleries.
Discover our 10 decorating ideas for your long, narrow corridor: you’ll be able to make them more spacious and welcoming.
Placing mirrors face to face in a hallway creates the illusion of infinite space, increasing the perception of depth and width. It’s a simple yet effective technique for making your hallway appear much larger than it really is.
Vertical mirrors draw the eye upwards, giving the impression of a higher, more open space. Choose mirrors with elegant frames to add a touch of sophistication. For example, the Duplum red ceramic wall mirror by Raawii or the Zodiac Large wall mirror by Jean-Baptiste Fastrez are perfect for this purpose.
Opt for light hues and pastel shades to decorate your long, narrow hallway. Colors such as off-white, beige, pale blue or mint green reflect light and visually enlarge the space. These hues also bring a sense of freshness and tranquility that are perfectly suited to this type of space.
Using contrasting colors for the base is a decorating trick that creates an effect of depth. Painting the lower part of the walls in a darker shade and the upper part in a lighter shade can give the illusion of a wider, higher space.
Wall-mounted storage frees up floor space, which is particularly important in a narrow hallway. Use coat hooks and shelves to keep your hallway uncluttered and functional. Muuto’s The Dots ceramic coat hooks or Broste Copenhagen’s Tenna shelf are particularly stylish solutions.
For corridors without natural light, opt for sconces, pendant or ceiling lights that diffuse soft, even light. Org Small by DCW Editions or Pochette Up/Down by Flos are excellent options for enhancing the decor of your long, narrow corridor.
Vary your light sources to create a warm atmosphere. Don’t hesitate to use dimmable bulbs to modulate the lighting to suit your needs. Adding accent lamps, such as string lights or table lamps, can also contribute to a welcoming atmosphere.
Dress up your walls with objets d’art and posters to bring character to your hallway. Choose pieces that reflect your personal style and complement the rest of your decor. For example, the Jaime Hayon x The Wrong Shop poster can be an excellent choice.
Add elements that are both decorative and practical, such as cubbyholes to organize your keys and change, and rugs. Your hallway will then be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Rugs can add color and comfort, while cubbies are perfect for organizing small items.
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Use mirrors to visually enlarge the space, light colors to illuminate the hallway, and wall-mounted storage units to optimize floor space.
Avoid dark colors that visually narrow the space. Instead, opt for light, luminous hues.
Arrange the pictures at eye level, aligning the frames for a more harmonious effect. You can create a wall gallery with frames of different sizes and styles.
Choose wall sconces, ceiling lights and pendants that give off soft, even light. Use dimmable bulbs to modulate lighting to suit your needs.
Add decorative elements such as rugs, artwork and plants. Vary light sources to create a warm atmosphere, and use light colors to illuminate the space. By following these tips, you can transform your long, narrow hallway into a functional and aesthetically pleasing space.
