How to Decorate a Hallway in a Small Apartment: 5 Successful Solutions

A hallway in a small apartment is one of the most challenging areas. Several square meters must accommodate a storage system, mirror, space for changing shoes, and yet not lose in aesthetics. And more importantly, this is where the impression of your home is formed, so it's important to decorate the hallway in a way that is both functional and beautiful.

We've gathered five designer solutions that work in real interiors. These are simple tricks to gain space, hide unnecessary items, and visually lighten even a cramped room.

Pop Art and Provocation

In a small apartment, designer Sarah Mikhailova transformed the hallway into a full-fledged art zone. White walls and furniture serve as a backdrop for vivid accents—fuchsia, black, and bright yellow. The entrance door and mirror frame are painted deep pink. A pouf with an animalistic print and a graphic banana painting add irony and reference the aesthetics of pop art.

Design: Sarah Mikhailova

For storage, a tall built-in cabinet with minimalist doors without handles is provided. The main provocation—a sculptural scratching post in the shape of a girl with a wig, which became both a decorative element and a functional item.

Design: Sarah Mikhailova

Brickwork and Smart Storage

Despite its modest size, the hallway immediately sets the tone for the entire interior. Thanks to rustic brickwork, the space gained character and texture—this is not just an entryway but a full part of the interior, connected to the kitchen and living room. Decorative brick here is not imitation but an actual handcrafted material, highlighting the aesthetics of American loft.

Design: Pavel Bakanov

A mirror with a vintage wooden frame reminds of antique finds from flea markets. It visually expands the narrow corridor. Below it stands a functional shoe cabinet with open shelves—compact yet spacious, perfectly suited for small apartments. Another similar element is placed by the window: behind it is a curtain hiding the utility block.

Design: Pavel Bakanov

Minimalism and Brightness

In a small apartment, designer Julia Pоздняк decorated the hallway functionally but without overloading the space. The base color for the walls was eucalyptus green, setting a fresh tone from the threshold. The walls are complemented with wooden facades of built-in wardrobes and a large mirror.

Design: Julia Pоздняк

The accent is a bright yellow pouf and a dark red round table where you can conveniently leave keys. Unusual candles highlight the personality of the apartment's owner and add individuality to the interior.

Design: Julia Pоздняк

Blue Color and Maximum Airiness

In a Khrushchyovka, designer Maria Kachkina completely rethought the cramped and outdated hallway, where there used to be pink walls, a dormer, and dark floors. The new look starts with deep blue color, which is painted not only on the walls but also on the ceiling and entrance door—creating an effect that increases height and gives the space expressiveness.

Design: Maria Kachkina

The contrast is created by light laminated flooring with a wood texture, and the minimal set of items—a black console, two hooks, and a mirror—makes the hallway light. The interior is enlivened by bright details: a graphic painting, a colorful rug, and a vintage chair with an accent upholstery.

Design: Maria Kachkina

Antique Mirror, Patterned Tile and a Phone from the Past

In the hallway, designer Natalia Chopenko combined elements of different eras to create a special atmosphere of comfort and timeless feeling, as if time had stopped. The accent wall is decorated with an antique mirror in a shutters-style frame—an item of character that immediately draws the eye. Its texture echoes with the vintage console and stool, while an old phone completes the composition by adding a theatrical note.

Design: Natalia Chopenko

The hallway background is built on a soft contrast: brutal concrete ceiling combined with delicate moldings, and the muted olive wall color complements the patterned tile on the floor.

Design: Natalia Chopenko

At the same time, the area remains functional: hooks for clothes are provided, the mirror is conveniently placed by the entrance, and a small rug adds warmth.