The $70 hallway fix that makes a huge first impression

Hallways tend to get overlooked, but they’re one of the first spaces people see when they walk into your home—and one of the easiest to elevate on a budget. With around $70, you can completely change the feel of your hallway without major renovation or fancy materials.

It’s all about small, high-impact updates that make the space feel intentional, not forgotten. These upgrades brighten, organize, and polish the area so it gives the right impression the second someone steps inside.

Add a runner rug

A long, low-pile runner instantly adds warmth and color to a hallway. It anchors the space, hides scuffs, and makes it feel finished instead of bare.

You can find good-quality runners for around $50–$70 online or at discount stores. Choose something with a pattern—it hides dirt better and adds personality without overpowering a narrow space.

Install better lighting

Dim or harsh lighting can make even the cleanest hallway look dull. Swapping an outdated fixture for a modern flush mount or adding warm LED bulbs brightens everything.

For under $70, you can find stylish lights that feel high-end. A warm color temperature (around 2700K) gives your hallway a welcoming glow that sets the tone for the rest of the house.

Paint the trim and doors

Repainting trim or interior doors in a clean white or soft neutral instantly refreshes the space. It gives structure and makes everything else look more intentional.

You don’t need much paint—one quart can usually cover an entire hallway’s worth of trim. The crisp contrast against your walls creates that “new house” feeling without breaking the budget.

Add wall hooks for function

If your hallway doubles as an entryway, a few sturdy wall hooks can make all the difference. They help keep bags, coats, and hats off the floor while looking organized.

Choose metal or wood hooks that match your home’s finish and space them evenly for a clean, uniform look. It’s a small touch that adds both practicality and polish.

Hang matching frames

A simple gallery wall made from matching frames can make a hallway feel like a design choice instead of a pass-through. Stick with black, wood, or brass finishes for consistency.

Print family photos, landscape shots, or black-and-white art for a cohesive look. You can get inexpensive frames in packs online, and the result looks far pricier than it is.

Upgrade the entry mat

If your hallway starts at the front door, a clean, durable mat is a must. Worn or mismatched mats make an instant bad impression.

A coir or low-profile rug in a neutral tone feels intentional and traps dirt before it spreads through the house. It’s one of the most practical ways to spend under $70.

Add a mirror to reflect light

A mirror is a designer trick that makes any hallway look bigger and brighter. It also gives guests (and you) a quick check before heading out.

Hang a medium or large mirror opposite a light source to bounce brightness around. Even an inexpensive framed mirror can make your hallway feel more open and polished.

Bring in greenery

A touch of greenery brings life to narrow or dark hallways. A small potted plant, wall-mounted planter, or faux trailing vine can do the trick.

Stick with low-maintenance options like snake plants or artificial greenery if the hallway doesn’t get sunlight. It softens the space and adds a natural focal point.

Use peel-and-stick wallpaper or paint an accent

If your hallway feels plain, try adding a pop of color or texture to one wall. Peel-and-stick wallpaper or a bold paint shade can transform the whole space.

Look for patterns that add depth without overwhelming, like subtle stripes or tone-on-tone textures. You can easily complete this upgrade in a single afternoon.

Add motion-sensor night lights

Practical lighting can still look high-end. Motion-sensor lights that plug into wall outlets are great for hallways, especially if you have kids or guests.

They turn on automatically when someone walks through, making the space feel smart and well thought out. Plus, they add a warm glow that feels inviting at night.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.