Décor dilemma
THE CHALLENGE
Ann Barr of Cape Town writes My daughter bought her house about two years ago and she has managed to paint it and upgrade the main bathroom. However, funds are now a little low and the hallway, which is 8m long and just over 1m wide, remains a bit of an eyesore.
There are two bedrooms on the left, a bathroom and an office on the right, and the main bedroom is situated at the end of the corridor. There are two different floor coverings, tiles and laminate, and these will have to stay for the time being, until funds become available.
Could you please give us a few tips on how to make this hallway look more inviting?
THE SOLUTION
Stylist Margaux Tait replies Hallways are high-traffic areas and although they’re usually left till last when it comes to renovations, they really shouldn’t be neglected as they often inform a visitor’s first impression of your space. Since you’re working on a tight budget, styling ideas rather than structural changes will have to do the trick. Here are a few suggestions:
1 CREATE INTEREST
Start by adorning the walls with art or photography. Create a pleasing visual rhythm by framing the artworks in the same way and with equal negative space around them. If you prefer a more quirky look, consider using a variety of frames; MRP Home stocks affordable frames in all shapes and sizes. If a collection of frames doesn’t appeal to you, use a simple picture rail. They’re cheap as chips to install and very handy. The hooks can be used to hang art, display vintage clothing or even hats if you wish. The possibilities are endless!
If your budget allows, replace the existing doors with detailed deep-moulded doors; they’re affordable and will go a long way in livening up the hallway.
2 LIGHTING
Select a light fitting that suits the style of your home. If you want to save a few rands, visit weekend markets, second-hand stores or even yard sales and you’re sure to find a bargain. Look out for mid-century light fittings – they’re timeless and right on trend. You’ll be amazed at the difference a light fitting makes; they’re like new handles that instantly update furniture!
3 FOCUS
Turn the wall with the main bedroom door at the end of the hall into a focal wall with a lick of paint in a different shade or colour. Use the space above the door in a creative way: old signage is fun or display a simple piece of driftwood if you’re after a more natural feel. It should be eye-catching with a bit of personality.
4 INSTALL PANELLING
You could also clad the bottom half of the walls for a stylish touch. Keep it simple and make sure all the panels are at the same height. You can use Nutec board with a tongue-and-groove finish (attach this to the wall using wooden strips), real tongue-and-groove pine (it’s more expensive) or consider the wide variety of polystyrene panels available from DAS products (find these at your local hardware store; even the ceiling panels will work well). Paint the panels in a slightly darker shade than the walls and see how they come to life. You can still create your gallery wall above the panelling.
5 FLOORING
Soften the two different flooring types with a runner until a new floor or carpeting is installed. Because the hallway is so long, you will likely need more than one – use identical runners to create continuity.
CONTACT mylifestyled.co.za