Most houses have some sort of an entrance. They come in different shapes and sizes, but are usually the first thing you and other people see when they enter your home. It is also used to store a lot of things for the sake of convenience or lack of other storage solutions. That’s why it’s important to make the most of this, often very small, space. Here are some tips that should help you with this problem.
Declutter
Rule number one of every makeover or attempt at improving the conditions is to get rid of all the things you don’t actually need. So, before you anything else, let go of the unnecessary first. You’ll then have a much better idea what elements need to be included in the design and how to organize them.
Consider the size
Some people are lucky enough to have a large hallway and can store more things in it. They might even install an all-in-one storage solution, with units that can hold coats and shoes, for example and there is still enough space to install an element to sit on while putting on your shoes or taking them off.
Think outside the box
While there are many great ideas for storage solutions in residential facilities, why wouldn’t you consider those mainly used for commercial purposes? After all, such industrial storage solutions have been extensively tested to provide reliable and efficient answers to the problem of storing stuff, including the heaviest objects.
Have designated areas
It’s quite important to have simple, yet efficient solutions for storing smaller items that you often need, usually many times a day. For example, your keys should always be placed in the same spot and you can even add a console table where you can keep all of them. The same goes, for example, for dog leads. Everything you need for walking your dog should be conveniently stored and easily reached.
Use the height
Hallways provide much more than just the floor and walls. If your ceiling is high enough, you can even install a bike rack or hanger so that your bike doesn’t prevent you from walking through the hallway. Also, if possible, install shelves about your head height, so that your books can be kept there without interfering with normal passage.
Under-stairs storage
One of the most popular and convenient storage solutions in the hallway is definitely the space under your stairs (if you have them, of course). You can install deep drawers for shoes, dog-walking equipment or some other essentials. Alternatively, you can use the space to store your vacuum-cleaner, mop and other things you need to keep your house neat and tidy.
Shelves above the door
Another great tip is to use the space between the doorway and ceiling and install one of two shelves there. That way you’ll get some extra space for the things you don’t need every day, but would like to know where they are at all times. This space is often overlooked by homeowners, but in small hallways it can provide great help with storing things. Just make sure the shelves are strong enough to carry the weight and you don’t keep anything you need often on them, since it can be tricky getting that stuff and putting it back every time.
Organizing storage solutions in the hallway can be one of the trickiest tasks for each designer or homeowner. Usually, there isn’t much space and the shape of the hallway is another limiting factor. Still, with some careful thought and planning, you can make the most of what you have without affecting the purpose of the hallway and its esthetic role.
