Trompe-l’œil is an art technique that uses realistic imagery to create the optical illusion that depicted objects exist in three dimensions.

You might want to use a Trompe-l’œil mural to make the narrow hallway feel more spacious. More info: http://blog.laqfoil.com/2013/07/03/trompe-loeil/

Nice place. Clean and modern. It looks great.

I would say you need large scale art on the walls. And I don't like the TV there, though not being able to see the rest of the room it might be the only place for it.

Opening up the staircase could help as well - instead of the sheetrock half-wall you could use cable railing or glass to open it up to light.

Also some kind of architectural element in the dining room (?) part against the wall there. I was thinking shelves of some kind but you don't want too much volume there.

Good luck!

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Lots if artwork, in various sizes to add eye catching movement.

You can do all above. I would begin with the lights. This is inexpensive and comes in two sizes. It would be a good beginning to illuminate the area with something with a specific look. I like that these are long and narrow.

I would add large scale art on the wall.

I would paint that wall a great color and add a series of coordinated prints or one large piece of vibrant art.

I would do a gallery wall. Here's one with all mirrors but you could mix it up with personal photos and art work in addition to the mirrors. I really like that they used the whole wall from top to bottom.


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Thank you everyone for the advice! @JN3344, unfortunately the TV needs to stay on that side of the wall as the other side has our couch, as seen in the attached pic. @carolins, thanks for the visual! I never thought of painting the wall in front of the staircase because there was nothing there to break it up. Thanks!

I like carolins idea of painting a portion of the wall to break it up. Use a color from the art above the sofa.

Thanks everyone! If I did a gallery wall, should it only be by the staircase? Or the whole length of the wall into the dining area?

I would extend it into the dining area. May as well have an interesting piece there too.

Hows the budget look? I've always liked built ins in halls: http://houzz.com/photos/10898253. A rug would be great for sure. You can do a rich oriental runner with all the light and space you have. Above ideas all great.