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A Hallway Makeover With Courtney

Transforming a tired hall into an inviting interior, this hallway makeover with Courtney shows how an overlooked space can become a highlight of the home. This hallway inspiration features hidden storage that makes the most of every alcove to keep clutter ay bay. You’ll also see how Courtney combined shaker-style furniture, panelling, and a timeless colour scheme for a hallway full of character, creating a hallway that’s full of character.

About Courtney

Courtney lives with her husband and two children in Manchester. Their 70s hallway was in need of a facelift, so the couple contacted their builder, who worked with Howdens to adapt their home for a busy family lifestyle.

The design goals

Courtney's aim

A lack of natural light and tricky L-shape layout meant Courtney’s hallway lacked a welcoming impression. She wanted a bright, welcoming space that had plenty of practical storage for coats, shoes, and pushchairs.
The final look

Opting for a light colour scheme has lifted the hallway and made it appear open and inviting. Meanwhile, secret storage under the stairs and hidden behind panelling keeps clutter out of sight.

Courtney

"We chose Howdens because they are a one-stop shop. We've been able to get everything for our hallway, which has made the process much easier."

The design details

Heritage Halesworth

The shaker style and wood-effect of our Halesworth collection brings classic character to a space. A timeless design, it will last for years to come.

See Halesworth kitchens
Bigger and brighter

The new sideboard is handy for getting ready before heading out. It matches the other cabinetry in a light porcelain tone that makes the hall seem spacious.

See porcelain kitchens

Concealed cupboard

Mouldings are used to conceal under-stairs storage – a clever hack for tidying a room. This design works well with shaker cabinetry, creating a classic look.

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Secret storage

Their designer added a surprise behind the tongue and groove wall panels, which open to reveal bespoke storage. This helps keep the space neat and tidy.

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Surface for sitting

The couple’s builder crafted a bespoke bench from a solid wood worktop - offering a place to perch. It’s durable too, which is a big tick for this busy family.

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Glazed doors

Courtney's dark hall needed brightening. Swapping to glazed doors made the space more inviting by letting light flow through Courtney's home.

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Making an entrance

A new front door in a bold black tone creates a striking first impression to guests, and offers a contrast to the neutral tones inside.

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Faux-wood floorboards

To get the look of timber for less, Courtney chose Oake and Gray vinyl flooring. Easy to clean, it adds warmth and natural charm to her hallway.

See Oake and Gray

Ornate touches

Decorative skirting gives the hallway a handcrafted appearance. This suits the room's shaker cupboards and period-inspired panelling.

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Stand-out spindles

Black metal spindles provide a modern touch, catching the eye in this classically-styled space. This dark accent helps Courtney’s hallway stand out.

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Courtney

“My favourite feature is the secret storage behind the bench. I love that we have it, it’s so practical and it’s nice to be able to keep things out of sight.”