Before & After: 'Our dark, moody hallway feels like a private members’ club'

Hallways are often overlooked spaces in a home, but they present significant opportunities for design and personalization. Designers emphasize transforming these transitional areas into engaging parts of the house. Jonathan Senner, a Washington interior decorator, advocates for classic hallway designs featuring neutral walls and salon-style galleries. In contrast, Seattle-based blogger and designer Cassandra LaValle encourages bold approaches, including patterned wallpaper and unique lighting, viewing hallways as spaces to inject fun and personality. Both agree that while rooms should maintain a cohesive flow, hallways can serve as distinct design statements. One of the primary advantages of decorating hallways is that it requires minimal effort to achieve a significant impact. Simple additions like fresh paint, a stylish runner, and well-placed frames can lead to a complete transformation. Long and wide hallways offer additional possibilities, such as incorporating built-in bookcases or a small writing desk. For entry-adjacent hallways, a bench can be a practical addition for shoes or coats. Senner suggests using large artwork over a bench, arguing that a substantial piece can act as a wall itself, creating a luxurious effect, rather than being limited by visual distance. Creative flooring options, such as Flor’s Suit Yourself rug, which is made of durable sisal tiles, offer both practicality and an unexpected visual element with its zigzag shape. LaValle highlights that hallways are ideal for quirky design choices, and the modular nature of sisal tiles allows for customized configurations. Picture ledges, like the Davis Zinc Wall Shelf, provide a versatile way to display rotating galleries of art, family photos, travel souvenirs, or collected mementos. LaValle also recommends using minimal console tables, such as CB2’s Mini Mill Console Table, to avoid clutter and maintain an open feel. Senner cautions against over-styling, advising restraint in furnishing these narrow spaces. For longer hallways with an end space, Senner suggests creating a vignette with a bench, a piece of art, a stylish table, or a cabinet, possibly against a contrasting wall color. This draws attention and invites exploration into the space. Mirrors are another effective design tool in hallways; large mirrors like the handcrafted Acacia Wood 40-Inch Mirror can reflect light, create an illusion of space, and serve as functional elements for quick checks before leaving home. Patterned wallpaper, such as Kelly Ventura’s Wild Grass designs for Chasing Paper, can introduce visual interest. These removable panels are practical for renters or those who frequently change their decor. For managing clutter, lidded baskets like the La Jolla Baskets from Serena and Lily offer a stylish storage solution. Lighting in hallways can serve multiple purposes: guiding paths, grounding patterned wallpaper with symmetrical sconces, or highlighting artwork. Senner prefers practical yet elegant picture lights for illuminating art, with cordless options available for ease of installation. Salon-style galleries are a classic approach, and LaValle advises starting with a matching set of frames and gradually adding personal pieces. Services like Minted can assist in creating curated gallery walls. Lighting can also be a statement piece; while tall ceilings can accommodate pendant rows, shorter ceilings are better suited for recessed or flush-mount fixtures like the Thurman light fixture. Given that hallways are high-traffic areas, durable runners are essential. Persian-style or kilim rugs, paired with thin rug pads, protect floors and prevent tripping hazards. Senner advises ensuring the runner leaves an equal amount of exposed floor space on all sides, creating a framed effect. For hallways that also serve as catch-all areas, storage furniture like the hardwood Windham Entryway Bench provides practical solutions with seating and cupboards. Adjustable tabletop lamps, placed on a console, can create a calming atmosphere, especially with dimmers for evening mood lighting. Finally, demilune tables, such as Gabby’s Chelsea Demilune, offer storage without obstructing movement, emphasizing the importance of keeping furniture tops clear to avoid clutter. Stools can also add interest and functionality, serving as plant stands or small item drop-off points. Even without built-in options, a two-shelf bookcase can be accessorized to create a functional and aesthetic display. The most common mistake with runners is selecting one that is too short; custom rugs or generously sized options, like CB2’s Tweed Dark Brown Linen Runner, are recommended. Ultimately, lighting in hallways can prioritize form over function, with decorative fixtures like star-shaped flush mounts enhancing the aesthetic without needing to provide intense task lighting. #HallwayDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #SpaceUtilization #PersonalizedDecor #LightingDesign #StorageSolutions #AestheticAppeal

Moving into a college residence hall can be a challenging experience, marked by the logistical hurdles of transporting belongings and the emotional transition into a new living environment. This account details the move-in process and highlights the notable features of Black-Diallo-Miller Hall, a newly constructed residence hall at the University of Georgia, specifically catering to first-year students. The move-in day, August 12, was characterized by careful planning, including early arrival to avoid crowds and effective use of moving carts, despite an unexpected 30-minute rain shower that morning. The initial impression upon entering the hall was dominated by the smell of fresh paint and cleanliness, signaling a new and well-maintained facility. Key aspects of the move-in experience included the ease of navigating the building due to fewer people during an early time slot, and the practical benefits of the room's design. The high ceilings in Black-Diallo-Miller Hall were a particular advantage, allowing for comfortable movement and activities such as sitting upright in a lofted bed without hindrance, a feature often absent in older dormitories. The process of setting up the room involved arranging personal items, organizing snacks, and a final trip for necessary supplies, culminating in the bittersweet departure of parents, marking a significant step into independent college life. The spaciousness of the room was noted as a factor that would make living with a roommate more comfortable. Beyond the move-in logistics, the article emphasizes several distinctive features of Black-Diallo-Miller Hall that contribute to an enhanced living experience for its 525 residents. The large windows and high ceilings are presented as significant improvements, with the windows providing ample natural light that makes the rooms feel larger, compensating for their relatively narrower width. Prospective residents are advised to seek rooms facing east on the fourth floor or higher to enjoy views of Sanford Stadium and the Tate Student Center. The ceilings are notably taller than those in Russell and Brumby Halls, facilitating daily tasks like making beds and allowing for more comfortable study or relaxation in bed. The rooms are also two feet longer than those in Russell Hall, providing additional space for movement and furniture arrangement. Storage solutions within the residence hall are also a highlight. The built-in closets are described as practical, offering substantial space for clothing and personal items. The inclusion of ladder chests provided by the university further enhances storage options, accommodating shoes, towels, and other necessities, thus mitigating concerns about limited space typically associated with dorm living. The bathroom facilities, often a source of concern in communal living arrangements, are presented as spacious, clean, and private, featuring individual stalls with full doors, ensuring comfort and privacy for residents. Furthermore, the provision of a Microchill refrigerating system by the university eliminates the need for students to bring their own microwaves or mini-fridges, simplifying the move-in process and equipping students with essential amenities. The presence of a quad in front of the hall offers outdoor recreational opportunities, making Black-Diallo-Miller Hall a comprehensive and supportive environment for first-year students at the University of Georgia. #BlackDialloMillerHall #ResidenceHall #MoveInDay #UniversityOfGeorgia #StudentHousing #DormLife #CollegeExperience #CampusLiving #RoomFeatures

This article details the transformation of a previously dark and uninviting home office in Newtown, owned by Dana and Anthony Sticca, into a chic and functional work-from-home (WFH) space. The renovation was spearheaded by designer Jenna Prenger of Audrey Willa Studio, who aimed to revitalize a room that Dana, a healthcare professional, actively avoided due to its dated aesthetic and poor layout. The original office featured dark woods and an inefficient arrangement, prompting the Sticcas to seek a complete overhaul that would make the space more appealing and conducive to productivity. Prenger's design strategy centered on retaining the structural integrity of the room, including its built-in shelves, while introducing a fresh color palette and modern elements. The new design incorporates pale pinks and deep blues, utilizing bold artwork to create a central focal point. A significant enhancement was the removal of existing window coverings, which allowed natural light to flood the room, instantly brightening the space. Another key feature highlighted by Prenger is the new light fixture, strategically chosen to draw the eye upward and complement the room's illuminated ambiance. Functionality was a primary consideration for the redesigned office. Prenger integrated two distinct workspaces by introducing a spinning chair, enabling Dana to easily switch between looking out the window and facing a deep blue wall where her wired computer screen is positioned. This innovative solution offers versatility and practicality within a single office area. The decorative elements were also carefully curated; only a few family photos were retained from the original setup, with Prenger handpicking new objects that align with the Sticcas' preference for bold colors and the overall clean, white aesthetic of the updated office. The article also touches upon Prenger's creative use of color and illusion. Despite her personal inclination towards simplicity, Prenger was captivated by a Blu Dot rug from Design Lab, which she described as a worthy exception to her typical design approach. This rug serves to integrate the various colors present in the room, including whites, pinks, and blues. To further enhance the room's visual appeal and create a sense of spaciousness, Prenger painted the wooden backs of the built-in bookcases to match the deep blue wall. This technique creates the illusion of floating shelves and a seamless continuation of the wall, making the white built-ins visually pop against the vibrant background. Prenger advises other work-from-home individuals in Cincinnati to consider the desired atmosphere of their home office before embarking on a redesign. She emphasizes the importance of aligning the space's vibe with one's professional attitude and personal style, suggesting that the environment should reflect whether one aims for creativity, executive presence, or a calming and cozy ambiance. This tailored approach ensures the office not only looks good but also supports the individual's work preferences and productivity. #HomeOffice #InteriorDesign #AudreyWillaStudio #WFHSpace #OfficeDecor #JennaPrenger #HomeRenovation #ColorTheory #CincinnatiDesign

The author, an integrative interior designer and Feng Shui expert, recounts a unique project: helping her son, Connor, a rising sophomore, set up his room in his fraternity house at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. This task presented an interesting challenge, given the typical condition of a frat house room and Connor's desire for his space to reflect his fraternity's motto: "Pi Kappa Alpha's members strive to be Scholars, Leaders, Athletes and Gentlemen, and they seek excellence in everything they do." The initial assessment of the room revealed a less-than-ideal environment, prompting the author to approach the design with both practical cleaning and Feng Shui principles in mind. Accompanied by her husband and daughter, the author embarked on transforming the room into a peaceful sanctuary. The process began with addressing the windows, which represent one's eyes and connection to the outside world. They were thoroughly cleaned, and unnecessary fixtures were removed to let in more light. A patchouli-scented candle was introduced to create a pleasant and masculine aroma, contributing to relaxation and focus, aligning with the idea that pleasing scents enhance well-being. Next, the focus shifted to the floor, symbolizing the foundation of existence. Despite the fraternity's rules against removing the old, stained carpet, the author meticulously vacuumed and shampooed it. A vibrant red and orange area rug was then added, chosen for its grounding, energizing, and uplifting qualities. The bed, representing rest and rejuvenation, was outfitted with a cardinal red comforter to evoke feelings of power and protection. A red sheet was also placed between the box spring and mattress to maintain Connor's ch'i (life force energy) and keep him grounded. The walls, which metaphorically contain one's spirit, were dealt with by scrubbing away dirt, chips, and peeling paint. Since painting was not permitted, large, inspiring pictures, posters, and flags were hung to cover imperfections and introduce bright, elevating colors into the room. Addressing clutter was a critical step, as it can cause distraction and anxiety. The author organized Connor's tiny closets for maximum efficiency using Command hooks and fastener strips. An old chest of drawers was refurbished, and under-bed storage systems were implemented to manage the remaining clothes and items, despite traditional Feng Shui advising against under-bed storage, due to space constraints. Finally, the placement of design elements, particularly the desk, was considered in relation to the commanding position. As the room's layout prevented the desk from directly facing the door, a small mirrored ball was placed on the desk. This ingenious solution allowed Connor to metaphorically see behind him, alleviating any potential anxiety from not being in a commanding position. The article concludes with the family collectively sending blessings for Connor's successful and harmonious sophomore year. The transformation proved successful, with Connor being happy, actively involved in fraternity leadership, and his revitalized room receiving positive feedback from his frat brothers, who considered it "awesome." #FengShui #InteriorDesign #FraternityRoom #CollegeLiving #RoomTransformation #HomeDecoration #SpaceOrganization #WellnessDesign

The article details the transformation of a “dark” Craftsman bungalow parlor into a brighter, more inviting space by stager Sarah Reed. The original parlor, typical of Craftsman-style homes, suffered from a lack of natural light due to its architectural design and placement. Reed's primary objective was to counteract this inherent dimness by strategically using color, furniture arrangement, and textiles to enhance the room's luminosity and perceived spaciousness. The initial state of the parlor presented challenges common to older homes, including limited light and potentially outdated decor that contributed to a heavy, dark atmosphere. Reed began the transformation by implementing a thoughtful color palette. Instead of relying on stark white, she chose soft, light neutral tones for the walls, which effectively reflected available light and created a sense of openness without making the room feel sterile. This choice was crucial in setting the foundation for a brighter environment. Furniture selection and placement played a significant role in the parlor's metamorphosis. Reed opted for pieces that were not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional in enhancing the room's brightness. The sofa was chosen in a light gray hue, contributing to the overall airy feel. Complementing the sofa, two accent chairs in white were introduced, further brightening the seating area. The arrangement of these pieces was carefully considered to maximize open floor space and light flow, avoiding clutter that could absorb light and make the room feel smaller. Textiles were another key element in Reed's staging strategy. A cozy rug, featuring a blend of white and gray, was selected. Reed emphasized the importance of rug size, noting that an 8’x10’ rug was appropriate for the room's dimensions, allowing both the sofa and accent chairs to rest comfortably with their front legs on it. This thoughtful detail helps to anchor the seating arrangement and prevent the space from feeling disjointed. Additionally, chunky light neutral textiles, such as throw pillows and blankets, were incorporated to add texture and warmth while maintaining the bright aesthetic. The combination of these design choices—light wall colors, carefully selected light-colored furniture, and coordinating textiles—resulted in a parlor that feels significantly lighter and more spacious than its original state. The transformation successfully addressed the challenge of inherent dimness in the Craftsman home, creating an appealing and comfortable living area. The article concludes by noting the effectiveness of Reed's staging, as the house went under contract shortly after being listed, indicating the positive impact of her design work on potential buyers. #HomeStaging #InteriorDesign #CraftsmanBungalow #RoomTransformation #BrighteningSpaces #NeutralDecor #HomeRenovation #RealEstateStaging