AD | Collaborative post
Organising storage in hallways or entryways is essential for creating an inviting entrance while keeping clutter at bay. The hallway needs to be a functioning part of the house rather than simply a passageway from one room to another. Here are some practical ideas from self storage solutions to humble coat racks and loads in-between.
Functional Storage Solutions
In hallways or mudrooms, consider installing built-in cubbies or modular shelving systems, or hooks and pegs for outdoor clothes, bags, and shoes. Cubbies with individual compartments, especially for children, can help everyone keep their belongings separate and easily accessible. Hooks mounted at varying heights can accommodate items of different sizes, such as coats, hats, and backpacks. Shoe racks or benches with storage underneath are also options for keeping footwear organised and off the floor if you have space.
Baskets and Bins
Incorporating baskets or bins into hallway storage systems adds a touch of style and helps keep everything hidden on open shelving. At the same time they provide handy storage for smaller items like hats and scarves, gloves, dog leashes and harnesses, or sports equipment. Labelled baskets can help family members quickly find what they need and encourage them to return items to their designated spots.
Multi-functional Furniture
Choose entryway furniture that serves multiple purposes while helping you use the space efficiently. For example, a bench with built-in storage can provide seating while also offering a place to stow shoes or other items. A console table with drawers or shelves can hold keys, mail, and other essentials, while also serving as a decorative focal point.
Mirrors and Lighting
Including a large mirror into the entryway not only serves a practical purpose for last-minute outfit checks, it also helps to make the area look bigger and bounce reflected light around. As well as mirrors, make sure there is adequate lighting. Try incorporating wall sconces or a statement pendant light for a dash of style and to make the hallway feel bright and welcoming. This is particularly beneficial through the winter when it gets dark so early.
Wall Organisation Systems
If you haven’t got room for free standing storage systems, opt instead for wall mounted solutions. A simple pegboard loaded with hooks, trays or baskets can help make the most of vertical space while providing handy storage for a variety of items. It could, for instance, double as a letter rack, a place for keys, somewhere to hang the dog lead and other smaller items we drop as we come into the house.
Seasonal Rotation
If you find your hallway is constantly under siege from items you’re not using, ask yourself why you’re even keeping them at home. Space is at a premium for lots of us, and a self storage rental nearby could be an ideal solution. As well as seasonal clothing and footwear, extend the concept to tools, gadgets and appliances that often end up cramming any understairs cupboards. It all helps keep the hallway clear and neat as well as attractive and welcoming for visitors or family alike. It’s very quick and easy to swap items in and out of your self storage unit as either the season or your needs change.
Decorative Touches
Make the hallway feel like an integral part of the house by including decorative elements such as artwork, plants, or personal ornaments and photos to add personality and warmth. A stylish rug could also define the space and help link the hall with the other areas of the house.
Traffic Flow
Consider the flow of traffic in and out of the entrance door (whether front or back) when you’re choosing or arranging furniture and storage in an entryway, hall or porch. Make sure there are clear pathways, that doors open comfortably and that there’s enough space for people to move around, take off coats etc. without navigating obstacles. You may find that a humble coat rack is all you have space for, in which case choose a really nice one and don’t overcrowd it.
Family Command Centre
Create a centralised area in the hallway for managing schedules, appointments, and household communications. This could include a bulletin board, calendar, or whiteboard where family members can leave messages or notes for each other.Entrances are often neglected areas of the house when it comes to furnishing and stylish hallway décor, and it means we ignore what is often quite a large area. By putting it to better use, making it welcoming as well as practical, we can discover loads of extra space to make everyday living just that little bit more pleasant.