How to Make Tight Entryways and Hallways Functionally & Stylishly With Slim Hallway Furniture
The answer to the age-old question “What to do with a very narrow hallway?” is right here. And it’s slim furniture.
Narrow hallways and tiny, almost non-existent entryways are one of the most common layout challenges in apartments, small homes and often rentals. They can be long, dark, and awkwardly shaped, making them not only difficult to decorate without clutter but also making them functional.
However, here at Jayne Thomas, we have great news. With the right slim furniture, your hallway and even the smallest entryway can be beautiful and practical. Because you can put a table in a narrow hallway as long as you choose a compact console table or a wall mounted option. Both options won’t block the hallway and serve as storage or decor. But they are only the tip of the iceberg.
Here we have 12 of the best narrow entryway and hallway furniture ideas to help you maximise every inch. All of these fabulous choices are renter-friendly, affordable, stylish, and perfectly suited to hallways and entryways that need smart solutions.
Before we dive into these storage and layout solutions. It’s worth browsing a few decorated hallway ideas to help you visualize the style and direction you might want to go in. Explore some gorgeous inspiration in the guide to Decorated Hallway Ideas.
- Why Slim Hallway Furniture Makes Such A Big Difference
- 5 Things To Consider Before Furnishing A Narrow Hallway
- The 12 Best Slim Furniture Pieces For A Narrow Hallway Or Entryway
- 1. Wall Mounted Floating Console Shelf
- 2. Compact Console Table
- 3. Slim Shoe Cabinet. For Shoes & Storage
- 4. Peg Rail With Shelf
- 5. Over-the-Door Coat Rack
- 6. Narrow Storage Bench
- 7. Tall Vertical Shoe Tower
- 8. Slim Hallway Metal Console Table
- 9. Wall Mounted Organizer for Keys & Mail
- 10. Coat & Blanket Ladder
- 11. Shallow Floating Shelves
- 12. Radiator Cover Shelf (If you have a radiator)
- Quick Styling Tip For Narrow Hallways & Entryways (To Avoid Clutter)
- FAQ: Slim Hallway Furniture & Layout Solutions
- Yes, Even A Very Narrow Hallway Can Be Functional & Beautiful
Why Slim Hallway Furniture Makes Such A Big Difference
Hallways are high-traffic areas with very little space to work with. Which is why traditional furniture typically doesn’t fit. Slim hallway furniture is usually pieces that are around 10 inches but sometimes smaller. The transform a tight corridor without getting in the way by:
- Creating storage in a tiny space
- Adds personality to a previously empty hallway.
- Keeps everyday essentials organized in the entryway.
- Help to improve both the flow and function of your whole home.
- Perfect idea to add storage and personality to a rental apartment
5 Things To Consider Before Furnishing A Narrow Hallway
- Measure Your Hallway Carefully: Hallways don’t have a lot of wriggle room for errors to take accurate measurements, then measure again. Especially the depth.
- Don’t Forget About The Doors: Take into account how the doors open when measuring. If a door were to fly open, you don’t want it slamming into your console table.
- Prioritise Slim and Vertical Designs: Wherever possible, go for slim hallway furniture that uses height more than floor space.
- Use Hallway Decor Perfect for Renters: Wall safe solutions are ideal for both renters and homeowners. Command hooks, leaning ladders and no drill shelves are great to easily change decor.
- Don’t Overcrowd The Space: Even beautiful furniture and decor can overcrowd a space. Stick to a few smart pieces that fit.
The 12 Best Slim Furniture Pieces For A Narrow Hallway Or Entryway
Most hallways serve so many purposes without really being equipped for it all. They catch coats, shoes, bags, keys, mail and more. That’s why slim hallway furniture is truly a must have. It gives your storage without blocking walkways.
1. Wall Mounted Floating Console Shelf
A floating console shelf is a great alternative to a console table. It gives you a small landing spot for keys, mail and essentials without taking up any floor space.
2. Compact Console Table
Can you put a console table in a narrow hallway? Yes, a compact console table is perfect for entryways and storage in small hallways.
It’s a stylish and practical way to decorate and add organization to any narrow entryway or hall.
3. Slim Shoe Cabinet. For Shoes & Storage
A slim shoe cabinet is one of the smartest pieces of small hallway storage. They tilt open, great at hiding clutter and instantly make your hall and entry look cleaner.
Add a mirror, a cute bowl, and a plant and you have hallway decor that is perfect for anyone, including renters.
4. Peg Rail With Shelf
Take inspiration from an English country cottage with a peg and rail with a narrow top shelf. Or go modern and streamlined with a sleek design.
It’s one of the most versatile narrow entryway ideas as it adds vertical storage without any furniture.
5. Over-the-Door Coat Rack
In the way of slim hallway furniture, nothing can beat the footprint of an over-the-door coat rack.
Perfect for tiny entryways or if you only need a place for your coats and scarves, leashes, etc. Then a coat rack is the perfect option.
6. Narrow Storage Bench
If you have a longer hallway, a narrow storage bench is a game-changer for comfort and organization. giving you both seating a some small hallway storage.
7. Tall Vertical Shoe Tower
When space is tight, always go vertical. When it comes to slim hallway furniture, a shoe tower is the way to go.
For a more open feel, opt for a ladder or open style. Plus, it’s great for renters as it doubles as a table top and hallway decor.
8. Slim Hallway Metal Console Table
For modern and clean styling, a slim metal console table is the way to go.
It’s the perfect piece of slim furniture for the hallway, reducing visual heaviness and leaving space orfor decor to shine.
9. Wall Mounted Organizer for Keys & Mail
Even the narrowest entryway needs a spot for keys and mail. I communal drop spot.
A wall mounted organiser is perfect for not only storage in small hallways, but it also uses no floor space at all. The perfect combo for small homes.
10. Coat & Blanket Ladder
A blanket ladder turned coat ladder is one of the best narrow entryway ideas possible so far.
It has virtually no footprint, making it perfect for renters, offers great coat storage, and is also a great hallway decor piece.
11. Shallow Floating Shelves
Step away from looking for slim hallway furniture and think about using the walls.
Shallow floating shelves and picture shelves as a style, height and storage all while taking up as little space as possible.
They are a perfect catch-all while making a narrow hallway look styled and curated.
12. Radiator Cover Shelf (If you have a radiator)
Radiators in the hallway have been the bane of my existence since moving to Europe.
However, radiator cover shelves are the best idea for narrow entryways and hallways.
They create a great surface for storage and decor without affecting the heat flow. It’s honestly a tiny upgrade that makes a bit of difference.
They are also perfect for renters to create a surface without removing or adding anything permanently.
Quick Styling Tip For Narrow Hallways & Entryways (To Avoid Clutter)
Even with the right slim hallway furniture, measured and placed perfectly for maximum aesthetics and functionality. Styling makes all the difference.
Here are some quick ideas to help make your narrow entryway and small hallway look perfectly styled and not cluttered.
- Mirrors are your best friend: Use mirrors to reflect light around. Perfect for small spaces that have a tendency to be too dark.
- Minimal Color Palette: Light colored can help make the area feel more spacious. Give your hallway decor a chance to pop.
- Go For Vertical Lighting: It helps make a dark entryway feel bigger. Think wall sconces and slim pendant lights.
- Add A Runner Rug: Expand your space visually with a long runner rug.
- Hallway Decor. Less Is More: Avoid excess decor by choosing a few pieces you love and that reflect your style the best.
FAQ: Slim Hallway Furniture & Layout Solutions
Use wall-mounted pieces, vertical slim furniture that’s under 11 inches deep, and keep hallway decor minimal. Visually expand the space by using mirrors and lights strategically.
Absolutely, as long as the table is also narrow. A compact console table or ladder is perfect for any hallway.
Honestly, depending on the width of your hallway, a maximum of 11 inches (30 cm) will fit into most narrow hallways.
Take advantage of light colors, mirrors, and natural light. Plus, choose hallway furniture well. Go for slim hallway furniture and wall-mounted organizers and shelves to keep floor space clear.
Yes, Even A Very Narrow Hallway Can Be Functional & Beautiful
Choosing slim hallway furniture gives you a chance to create a functional, stylish and clutter-free entryway without messing with the flow of the house.
Whether you lean towards a minimal, rustic or cottage inspired aesthetic. These narrow entryway ideas and small hallway storage solutions will help you turn your hallway from a forgotten space into a wonderfully useful part of your home.