It’s been a long time coming, but the small upstairs hallway is finally getting the attention it deserves.
Our hallway makeover has been a slow, steady project—one of those spaces you tackle bit by bit. It’s not a room where you linger, yet it shapes the feel of the rooms it connects, so it matters. Over the years the space went from generic and beige to something that finally reflects the rest of the house.
About eight years ago the hallway felt dated: plain walls and a noisy attic fan centered in the ceiling that I could never love. It worked poorly for insulation, was loud, and honestly a little gross with the occasional spider surprise. Last year we removed the fan, which was a relief, but it left behind a large patch of repaired drywall in the ceiling that we’ve been staring at ever since.
We debated several ceiling treatments that would add character without overpowering the narrow space—beadboard, pressed tin, and more. Ultimately we chose tongue and groove planks. They’re subtle and classic, adding texture and intent to the ceiling while keeping the hallway feeling open. The plan is to run the planks over the attic access as well, so the access blends in rather than standing out.
I mocked up the look by placing images over a photo of the hallway, and the result exceeded what I had in my head. Seeing the concept come together visually made the decision feel right and gave us a clear path forward.
The Color Plan: Willowleaf Love Continues
After painting our foyer and staircase wainscoting in Sherwin Williams Willowleaf, I’ve been eager to bring that warm, soft olive tone upstairs. Willowleaf is moody without being heavy—fresh yet nuanced—and it felt like a natural extension to carry the color into the hallway.
To be sure of the choice, I used a digital visualizer to preview Willowleaf in the space. The mockup confirmed the cozy, elevated look I wanted, so we’ll paint the wainscoting and doors in Willowleaf while keeping the upper walls and ceiling crisp white. That contrast will maintain brightness and balance the deeper green.
Found Treasures and Design Surprises
I love a good secondhand find, and recently I scored a pair of vintage-style brass sconces that give the hallway a warm glow in the evenings. Lighting can completely change a narrow passage, and these sconces add personality without cluttering the space.
We’re keeping a large antique mirror found years ago—that piece is invaluable for bouncing light and adding a sense of history to the hallway. Mirrors are a simple way to enhance brightness and depth in small transitional areas.
For a pop of unexpected color, I’m bringing back the “unexpected red” idea I used in the foyer. A red vintage-style runner will run the length of the hallway to inject contrast and visual interest, cutting through the polished look with a touch of warmth and texture.
The Hallway Mood Board
To organize the plan visually, I created a mood board that pulls together materials, colors, and accessories for the hallway refresh. It helped clarify choices and ensured the elements would work together once installed.
Our Hallway Makeover Elements:
- Paint Color: Sherwin Williams Willowleaf for wainscoting and doors
- Ceiling Treatment: Tongue and groove planks
- Lighting: Secondhand vintage-style brass sconces
- Mirror: Large antique mirror to reflect light and add character
- Runner Rug: Red vintage-style runner for a bold accent
- Walls + Ceiling: Clean white to keep the hallway bright
- Greenery and Planters: Indoor tree and planter for softness and texture
- Additional Fixtures and Decor: Flush mount lights and simple vases to finish the look
I also plan to add a small gallery wall with art that complements the palette and keeps the hallway feeling layered and curated.
Next up is the tongue and groove ceiling install—fingers crossed it goes smoothly. I’ll share updates as we make progress, including the final styling once all the pieces are in place.
If you’re planning your own hallway update, small choices—paint, lighting, a mirror, and a runner—can create big impact without a major overhaul. Thoughtful, gradual changes allow you to test ideas and build a cohesive look.
More updates coming soon!
More Hallway Decorating Tips
- 8 Small Hallway Decorating Ideas to Make Your Space Look Bigger
- How to Replace an Attic Door String With a Hook
- How to Hide a Thermostat Without Affecting Its Performance
