Ideas for Maximizing Hallway Organization

• Add a small shelf above a doorway or window to organize and display knick-knacks, books, CDs, photos and more. If your hallway has a window, utilize the windowsill as a mini-shelf for storage or a display area.

• Tip: Choose shelving that will complement your existing entryway décor or will match molding. You can also paint to match.

• Above-doorway shelves are also perfect for storing practical items—such as notebooks, binders and paperwork—that are infrequently used or needed. It keeps these necessary items organized and out of the way, but not completely out of reach. Try it to improve your workspace and office organization too.

More than Molding
Molding can be more than ornamental and decorative in hallways. Use it to…

• Take your family growth chart to the next level. Apply chalkboard and/or magnetic paint on the molding of one side of a doorway—or both if you have a large family—and mark off inches and feet with labels. Use colorful chalk, unique magnets or your child’s picture to track each member and watch your family grow. Create the perfect growth tracker labels with our Picture-Perfect Magnets project. The way you choose to make your marks is up to your own family’s style and traditions.

• Tip: If you’d rather not paint the molding, get a piece of plywood cut-to-size at your local hardware store, then paint and mount it near a doorway.

Can’t Miss it Message Board
Take advantage of a high-traffic hallway by moving the family calendar or message board out of the office or kitchen and into a space for all to see.

• A hallway message board is an easy way to get the word out to everyone. Use it to leave notes or reminders and check schedules or to-do lists. Hang a bulletin board or try our Magnify Your Schedule project to keep your family organized and informed.

• Sometimes, it’s OK to write on the walls. Take advantage of hallway convenience and turn walls into a place for personal expression by using magnetic primer, dry erase paint or chalkboard paint to create an on-the-wall message board. Add molding around the painted surface to create a ledge for holding chalk, markers and pens that also adds a decorative touch. Read our article for ideas on how to Organize Your Life in Black and White.

• Tip: When creating a dry erase board or chalkboard on your wall, allow two to three days for paint to dry before using.

Wall-to-Wall Home Storage Opportunities
Whether it’s a large hallway or simply a nook, any space—big or small—can be used for home storage and organization. If your space is too small for functional furniture, like an armoire or cabinet, try these simple additions.

• Install a floating shelf on a wall or in a small nook to create extra organizing space or add a stand-alone bookcase for organization and display. Storage baskets or bins are perfect for smaller spaces and can complement your home décor. Keep your home clutter-free with personalized storage baskets for each member of the family.

• Tip: For an elegant touch, add glass shelving to display collectibles or photographs.

• Mount hooks on the wall to hang items when not in use for a whimsical look and smart storage.
• Who says movies and music have to stay in the living room and books have to stay in a library or office? Whether you’re a movie buff or a bookworm, use your hallway space adjoining the respective rooms to show off your hobbies.
• Get family trophies, certificates, medals and degrees out of boxes and drawers and onto the hallway wall. Show off your family’s accomplishments and free up storage space.
• Take advantage of space under the stairs by building cubbyholes for storage of coats, shoes, and other items.

As high-traffic areas, hallways are the perfect place to show off your family’s personality. Clear up the clutter in other rooms by utilizing these overlooked spaces for home organization and storage.