11 Ways to Add Value to Entryways, Hallways + Great Rooms

Your entryway, hallways and great room see a lot of action, so make the most of these high-traffic spaces with updates that add instant value.

By: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Photo By: Flynnside Out Prodcutions

Update Your Front Door

A new front door with sidelights and an overhead transom looks great from the curb and can help brighten your foyer, bringing sunlight into otherwise dark interior spaces.

Add Stylish Hooks

A coat rack hung just above eye level adds a bit of decorative flair and is an effective way to keep hats and jackets within reach as you're heading out the door.

Craft a Key Drop

If you're tight on space, don't stress. A shallow table or floating shelf hung 30 to 32 inches from the floor will do the trick. Add a small lamp and accessories for a perfectly pulled-together look. This can also be the perfect spot to drop your keys and mail when you come in the door.

Add a Durable Runner

A colorful runner not only adds personality to an entryway, but it also protects the flooring underneath from heavy foot traffic. In hallways near bedrooms and bathrooms, make sure it's soft underfoot. For areas near exterior doors, choose a runner made from a material that's easy to clean.

Hang a Statement Fixture

Adding affordable light fixtures that fit with the style of your home can be a great way to enhance an otherwise plain hall or staircase. Just make sure the light is hung so there are at least seven feet of clearance from the bottom of the fixture to the floor.

Let in Natural Light

You don't have to install large windows or skylights to bring in lots of natural light. Compact tubular skylights, priced around $200 per unit, are an affordable solution for dark rooms and hallways. Tip: Leave the install to the pros.

Swap in Neutral Hues

Lighter shades of neutral colors like taupe, gray and tan will help any space appear larger. Try Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter HC-172 for an appealing greige. If you prefer more subtle shades of green or blue, check out Sherwin-Williams Olympus White SW 6253 or Behr Wabi-Sabi T18-1.

Replace Your Flooring

Consider a durable, high-quality hardwood or tile in high-traffic areas. The beauty of real wood flooring makes a good first impression and can be refinished which costs a lot less than a total flooring replacement. Just make sure your flooring is durable enough to handle kids and pets.

Utilize Wall Space

A long hallway is the perfect opportunity to make a statement with your favorite art and gives the illusion of more living space.

Update the Staircase

Many new-construction homes come with contractor-grade staircase railings and stairs covered in cut-pile carpet and basic trim. You can create a high-end, designer look by replacing the carpet with a patterned sisal runner and either staining the banisters and rails to match the floors or incorporating shades of semigloss paint to match the walls.

Add Unexpected Storage

If you have space, adding a console or chest of drawers on the landing is a great way to add stylish storage in an unexpected way. Add a mirror into the mix to help bounce light and keep the area feeling spacious.