7 Things You Should Never Have in a Hallway

What are the 7 Things You Should Never Have in a Hallway? Let’s take a look.

Why Hallways Matter

A hallway might seem like just a pass-through area in your home, but it’s actually one of the first spaces people see when they enter. It’s the introduction to your home’s vibe, so it’s worth putting a little thought into what’s there (and what’s not). That said, hallways can be tricky. They’re often narrow, sometimes poorly lit, and can easily become clutter magnets. If you’re not careful, they can go from functional to frustrating in no time.

So let’s talk about the things you should never have in a hallway – and how to avoid those pitfalls.

7 Things You Should Never Have in a Hallway

Cluttered Shoes

First up, shoes. Lots and lots of shoes. We’ve all been there: you walk into someone’s house, and the hallway is practically a shoe graveyard. Sneakers, boots, flip-flops, you name it, all piled up right where you’re supposed to walk. It’s not just messy; it’s a tripping hazard. Nobody wants to do an obstacle course to get to the living room. If you’re dealing with limited space, invest in a slim shoe rack or a closed cabinet. Something that keeps the footwear out of sight but still easy to grab when you’re rushing out the door. And for the love of neatness, try not to let it overflow – it’s about quality over quantity here.

Overflowing Bags

Speaking of clutter, let’s talk bags. Handbags, backpacks, gym bags, totes… they all seem to congregate in the hallway. Before you know it, you’ve got a pile that rivals Mount Everest. Not only does it look chaotic, but it’s also a pain to navigate. Hooks on the wall can be a lifesaver here. Better yet, designate a spot in another room for the bulkier bags and only keep your daily essentials in the hallway. Trust me, your space will feel so much calmer without a mountain of bags greeting you every time you walk in.

Oversized Furniture

Now, let’s get into furniture. The hallway is not the place for oversized furniture. I get it, sometimes you want to squeeze in a console table or a bench, but if it’s too big for the space, it’ll only make the hallway feel cramped. Hallways are meant to be functional – you’re supposed to move through them with ease. If you’re constantly bumping into furniture or squeezing past it, it’s too much. Stick to slim, narrow pieces or consider wall-mounted shelves instead. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re not knocking your hip into that chunky side table every day.

Dark or Heavy Wall Colors

Here’s another thing that can ruin a hallway: dark or heavy wall colors. Now, don’t get me wrong, I love a moody color palette in the right space. But hallways are usually narrow and don’t get a ton of natural light. Slapping a dark paint color on the walls can make them feel even more like a cave. Unless you’ve got a particularly wide hallway with great lighting, it’s best to stick to lighter shades. Whites, creams, pastels, or even light grays can make the space feel brighter and more open. And if you really want to add some personality, go for bold artwork or a patterned runner instead of dark paint.

Poor Lighting

Lighting, or the lack of it, is another big issue in hallways. It’s amazing how many people overlook this, but poor lighting can make a hallway feel gloomy and uninviting. And let’s be real: nobody wants to stumble around in the dark trying to find their way. Overhead lights are a must, and if you’re feeling fancy, you can add wall sconces or even motion-sensor lighting for a modern touch. Mirrors can also help reflect light and make the space feel bigger. Whatever you do, just don’t leave the hallway dimly lit – it’ll drag down the vibe of your entire home.

Fragile or Obstructive Decor

While we’re on the topic of decor, let’s talk about fragile or obstructive items. Delicate vases, oversized sculptures, or anything that sticks out too far from the walls can be a recipe for disaster. Hallways are high-traffic areas, and it’s only a matter of time before someone knocks over that fancy vase with their bag or elbow. Keep decor simple and streamlined. Wall-mounted artwork, mirrors, or even a gallery wall can add personality without taking up floor space. And if you’re really set on having decor in the hallway, make sure it’s sturdy enough to withstand a bump or two.

Loose or Unsecured Rugs

Now, let’s talk rugs. Rugs can add warmth and style to a hallway, but loose or unsecured rugs? That’s a big no. They’re tripping hazards waiting to happen. If you’ve ever had a rug slide out from under you, you know what I’m talking about. To avoid this, use non-slip rug pads or invest in a runner that’s specifically designed for high-traffic areas. Bonus points if it’s washable because hallways tend to see a lot of dirt and mess. The right rug can really tie the space together, but it’s got to be practical, too. Take a look here for some great hallway ideas.

Too Many Coats

Finally, let’s address the elephant in the room: coats. Or rather, too many coats. It’s easy for a coat rack to get overloaded, especially in colder months. But when your hallway is buried under a mountain of jackets, it’s not exactly inviting. Limit the number of coats you keep in the hallway to just what you’re currently using. Store the rest in a closet or another room. If you’re short on storage, consider a wall-mounted coat rack or even a hidden cabinet. A neat, streamlined coat solution can make all the difference.

Finding the Balance

So there you have it: seven things you should never have in a hallway and how to fix them. The key to a great hallway is balance. It should be functional but also welcoming, tidy but not sterile. With a little thought and some smart solutions, you can turn your hallway into a space that’s both practical and stylish. And really, who doesn’t want that?

“When one door closes another opens but all too often there is a long hallway in between.” – Rick Jarow

7 Things You Should Never Have in a Hallway

Why Hallways Matter