- 11 March 2021
Winter Hallway Transformation: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide
Your entrance and hallway are the first areas guests see when they enter your home, making them crucial for creating a lasting impression. This winter, take the opportunity to transform these often-overlooked spaces into inviting and stylish areas that reflect your personal taste. Whether you're looking to brighten a dark hallway, make a narrow space appear wider, or simply refresh your home's look with modern hallway ideas, this guide provides all the steps and inspiration you need.
With the right paint choices and some thoughtful preparation, you can achieve a professional-looking result that not only enhances your home's aesthetic but also adds to its value. Our comprehensive DIY guide will walk you through every step, from selecting the perfect colour to applying the final coat. Plus, we'll share expert decorating tips to help you make the most of your hallway space, whether you're going for a contemporary look or a cosy, welcoming vibe.
Your shopping list
- Dulux® Wash&Wear® Low Sheen in your chosen colour
- Dulux Design Effects in your chosen colour
- Dulux Duramax® in your chosen sheen and colours
- Undercoat/stain blocker (if required)
- High quality synthetic brush for cutting in
- Medium nap (10-18mm) synthetic roller for walls
- Short nap (10mm) synthetic roller for furniture piece
- Paint pot – for cutting in
- Roller tray
- Roller extension pole
- Drop sheets
- Painter’s masking tape
- Cloth
Preperation Tips
How much paint do I need?
Use Dulux's simple, online paint calculator to determine the amount of paint you need.
Protect surfaces and furniture
- Remove furniture from the room.
- Lay down drop sheets to protect floors.
- Mask skirting boards, window trim, and electrical switches with painter’s tape. If painting the ceiling, tape around light fittings and vents.
Surface Conditions
- Already painted surfaces: If in good condition with no stains or mould, you might not need an undercoat. Ensure the surface is clean, dry, and free from dust, oils, and grease.
- Unpainted surfaces: Apply one coat of Dulux® 1Step® Prep. For bare plaster, use Dulux PRECISION® Sealer Binder.
Addressing Imperfections
- Cracks or holes: Patch with suitable filler or sealant like Selleys® Spakfilla®. Sand smooth, then apply Dulux 1 Step Primer Sealer Undercoat.
- Mould: Remove with Selleys® Rapid Mould Killer™ or a bleach solution. Clean thoroughly to prevent recurrence.
- Stains: Wash with Selleys Sugar Soap. Use a specialist stain blocker if stains persist, such as the Dulux PRECISION range.
Painting Guide
Walls
- Preparation: Follow the steps above.
- Cutting in: Use a brush to paint edges and areas a roller can't reach.
- Rolling: Load the roller with paint and apply in an ‘M’ pattern, starting from the light source. Use a light touch to avoid roller marks.
- Laying off: Using an unloaded roller begin in the top left corner of your wall and gently let the roller roll down to the baseboards in a straight line with no pressure. A lightness of touch will prevent new roller marks from forming. Repeat this action only this time, slightly overlap your last movement so your roller rubs away the line created by the previous stroke. Continue this across the area you have painted. This is called laying off.
- Second coat: Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying a second coat.
Drawers
- Preparation: Follow the steps above.
- Cutting in: Use a brush for edges.
- Rolling: Apply the first coat with a roller.
- Drying: Follow drying times on the label.
- Second coat: Apply with a roller and lay off lightly for a smooth finish.
Note: For a flat finish your project is complete. For a more textured finish, work while the paint is still wet. Use a wide brush, dry roller or muslin and drag the paint in a random, overlapping pattern. For a brushed finish, lay off lightly with a brush. A clear coat may be applied to protect the surface.
Shelves
- Preparation: Follow the preperation steps for spraying.
- Spraying: If using Dulux Duramax Endless Dusk Gloss, apply in multiple light, mist coats.
- Finishing: Follow after-spraying instructions.
Decorating Tips and Inspiration
Brightening a Dark Hallway
Brightening a dark hallway can dramatically change the feel of your home, making it more welcoming and spacious. Here are some effective strategies:
- Use Light, Reflective Colours: Opt for light colours like Dulux 'Terrace White' or soft pastels that reflect natural light and create a sense of openness.
- Add Mirrors: Position mirrors strategically to reflect light and give the illusion of a larger space. This is especially effective in narrow hallways.
- Install Adequate Lighting: Incorporate layered lighting with overhead fixtures, wall sconces, and floor lamps to ensure your hallway is well-lit at all times.
Making a Hallway Look Wider
If your hallway feels cramped, these tips can help make it appear wider:
- Horizontal Stripes: Painting horizontal stripes on the walls can elongate the space visually. Choose contrasting colours for a bold effect or subtle shades for a softer look.
- Light Flooring: Use light-coloured flooring to make the hallway feel more expansive. Rugs with horizontal patterns can also contribute to this effect.
- End Table or Console: Place a narrow table or console at the end of the hallway. This draws the eye through the space, creating a focal point that makes the hallway seem longer and wider.
Modern Hallway Ideas
Incorporating modern elements can update your hallway and make it feel fresh and contemporary:
- Minimalist Furniture: Choose sleek, minimalist furniture pieces that don't overwhelm the space. Floating shelves and slim consoles work well in narrow hallways.
- Bold Accent Colours: Use bold accent colours like Dulux 'Bondi' on one wall to create a statement. Pair it with neutral tones for balance.
- Geometric Patterns: Introduce geometric patterns through wallpaper, rugs, or artwork. This adds visual interest and a modern touch to the space.
Metallic Accents: Incorporate metallic accents in light fixtures, frames, and decor pieces for a touch of sophistication.
Final Touches
Admire your transformed hallway! A fresh look can make a significant difference in creating a welcoming entrance for your home.
For all your DIY painting ideas, from expert advice to the highest quality supplies, visit Mitre 10's Painting DIY Projects for further inspiration and insights. Let us help you transform your house into a beautiful home!
