Design Secrets

Knowing a few tricks of the trade can easily make small rooms appear larger, simply by effective use of colour, furniture and accessories.

the best ideas to transform dark halls and entry ways quickly and effectively:

Decorate with light, welcoming colours to make a hallway seem as large as possible. Light colours are reflective and bright while dark colours absorb light, making this area seem smaller

Lamps will add life and atmosphere to dark corners but if space is too limited for a table lamp, standard lamps will work just as well

Candles can also be used effectively to illuminate dark corners of a hallway where there are no power sockets. Always observe candle safety, especially around children

Scented candles are a good choice and create fresh welcome to the home

Tealight candles in glass votives or lanterns are affordable and effective

Pillar candles can be stood in glass vases to prevent the flame from extinguishing in strong draughts

For instant brightness, light globes in over-head fittings can be quickly replaced with higher wattage bulbs. Dusty shades also restrict light so be sure to clean them on a regular basis

Mirrors give the illusion of a bigger space, filled with light as well as being practical for checking an outfit before leaving the house. Hanging or standing one large mirror, or grouping together smaller mirrors will have far more impact than hanging one small mirror on its own