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joan_ollendorf

Need advice on entry/hallway table for narrow hallway

10 years ago

I'm very much in need of advice regarding a hallway table and have included 4 photos from different angles which I hope will illustrate my problem sufficiently. (This is not my actual house since it is not yet finished but it is the identical model built for another family).

I am planning to decorate in an arts and crafts/mission/prairie style and am looking for a hallway table that fits this look but is narrow enough for my hallway, which is only 4 feet 4-1/2 inches wide (wall to wall) with molding at the baseboard that is probably 1 inch on each wall. The table needs to fit between the two single windows that are 56 inches apart. Ideally, I would like it to have two drawers on top and a shelf on the bottom to put some interesting decorative touches. In addition, any table more than 14 inches deep creates a walk-through space of less than 3 feet, which I was told is the narrowest a hallway should be to walk through it comfortably. Sticking to this rule and only using a table 14 inches deep or less really limits me in choice of hallway table when I look on line.

Also, further down the hall, toward the great room, there is a 10-1/2 foot span of wall and just where the entry to the great room begins is a double window (to the left of the fireplace). On this wall I was planning to hang a large tapestry. I figured that between the table (with mirror and lamp) plus the tapestry, the long hall would be "well dressed."

However, I can't find a nice-looking, nice quality table that fits these criteria and allows adequate room to pass through. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated regarding tables that would work (not sure if you can give specific name brands/styles on Houzz) or any other/different ideas for filling this long hallway so that it doesn't seem like a 20- foot long boring and empty tunnel. Thanks in advance!

Comments (40)

  • 10 years ago

    Forgot to mention that I am considering having a custom table built by an Amish builder but these are really more than I had hoped to spend, although I know the quality is beautiful.

  • 10 years ago

    Christopher lowell used to do this and i think it is really a good idea for you. i would cut a table apart, but part of the table and 2 legs attached to the wall by the door, you really have a small space there.

    Joanie123 thanked havingfun
  • 10 years ago
    I can appreciate that you would like a narrow table for your hallway and yet I think the best thing would to have something at either end of the narrow space. Perhaps something of interest aside your front door, then use a long, as wide as possible, colorful runner to bring you into the living room area. Then on either side of the fireplace, matching low upholstered benches. This would allow a "destination" of sorts for the eye whether you are headed towards the front door or opposite into the living room. The use of a runner and upholstered benches would visually warm that long expanse.
    Having said that, if you still want a narrow table between the two windows - perhaps consider a ledge with corbels and some art above it. Best wishes in your new home.
    Joanie123 thanked spraguec
  • PRO
    10 years ago

    I agree. How about ottomans on either side of door

    Amelia Nailhead Storage Ottoman, Blue stripes · More Info

    Joanie123 thanked User
  • 10 years ago

    I appreciate the comment about the vertical piece of artwork. However, I was already planning to put a tapestry in the hallway on the 10-1/2 foot long wall so thought more artwork on the 56-inch wall wouldn't do much to break up the long corridor, since both pieces would be "flat" on the wall. Am I thinking about this incorrectly? I thought I needed a table or some piece with more depth to break up the hallway length and add more interest than just things on the walls.

    Also, the ottoman idea is interesting, but if they're on either side of the door, I'm not clear as to what that would do to visually improve the long hallway and would appreciate clarification.

    Thanks to all who have made comments so far. I need all the help I can get!



  • 10 years ago
    I don't think a table is necessary. Maybe a built in shelf on the wall next to the door. Add wall decor on the hallway walls and maybe a long entry rug
    Joanie123 thanked Chelsea Barnum
  • 10 years ago

    I think that once you put up curtains, you will find that a table will be too much in that area, and the vertical picture would work just fine. Your home does not scream art and crafts/mission/prairie style to me. It looks more contemporary.

    Joanie123 thanked shirlpp
  • PRO
    10 years ago

    I suggested the Ottomans to create an entry way since you don't really have space for a table. A rug with ottomans to place things as you walk in door or spot to remove shoes. I don't think the walkway is a good spot for anything substantial. Perhaps a very narrow console but after reviewing your pics and dimensions for that hallway even that looks tight.

    Joanie123 thanked User
  • PRO
    10 years ago

    I don't know your dimensions for the door wall but perhaps even a round table in the corner where window is with the ottoman tucked under and/or on other side of door. Keep the hallway a hallway rather than cramming furniture in there.

    Joanie123 thanked User
  • PRO
    10 years ago

    Joanie123 thanked User
  • PRO
    10 years ago

    If full round table too large, try half moon table. What are the dimensions of the wall space between door on window side.

  • 10 years ago
    This is a dilemma. I agree with the idea of a long, interesting runner, as wide as will fit the space. Anything narrower than the full width will accentuate the narrowness of the hallway. You could take a medium-tone color from the runner and put it on the stair sidewall to unify the area. Any furniture, even very narrow, would be in the way. The only thing I would add would be a painting or print or two on the window wall, or even a nice mirror.
    Joanie123 thanked felizlady
  • PRO
    10 years ago

    For the hallway wall


    Joanie123 thanked User
  • 10 years ago

    The hallway seems too narrow to add a table

    Joanie123 thanked SewingLadyDi
  • PRO
    10 years ago
    I love your home, I wouldn't put a table there but instead a colorful runner and a couple of pieces of art that match less is best.
    Joanie123 thanked Designs by Pictra
  • 10 years ago
    Similar to S Mistry's idea, Room & Board has this 40" W, 8"D Slim console. Comes in a variety of colors.
    Joanie123 thanked Lori East
  • 10 years ago
    Too long/narrow - the proportions would be off if a table were added. Art work is ok but keep the floor clear.
    Joanie123 thanked capeeliz
  • 10 years ago
    last modified: 10 years ago

    Changing this home to look arts and crafts is dilemma enough! Generally, furniture in that style is quite chunky, spaces are quite small and intimate, as well as heavily paneled. You'll probably get more bang for your buck by installing an arts and crafts stairwell and lighting, if you're determined to go that direction. It will visually fill your space and no table will be needed.

    Arts & Crafts · More Info

    5126 Fairglen · More Info

    Cassique Residence · More Info

    Arts & Crafts 1 · More Info

    Joanie123 thanked decoenthusiaste
  • PRO
    10 years ago

    I honestly feel like any table in that long, narrow hallway will detract from your entry. Opt for artwork on the stairs and maybe an interesting mirror on the hall wall between the two windows, or maybe even another piece of art. In spaces this small, art can bring in character and warmth without closing in the hallway.

    Joanie123 thanked Pamela Qarbaghi
  • 10 years ago
    Where did you get those lamps (kitchen) love them, beautiful house
    Joanie123 thanked sseg
  • 10 years ago

    These are not photos of my home but one just like it, so unfortunately I can't answer your question.


  • 10 years ago
    I have a hallway similar in size...not quite as long, but just as narrow. I used a piece of header trim salvaged from an old house as a shelf. I put it at eye level. I can sit pictures on it and I've attached hooks to it to hang more photos from the piece. Adds dimension without encroaching on the space.
    Joanie123 thanked Leslie Brooks
  • 10 years ago

    Great idea! Thank you. Would you happen to have a photo of what it looks like?

  • 10 years ago
    You can probably get something made from an etsy vendor for far less than the Amish company that you are looking at. But I suggest moving in first, getting your other furniture in place, and seeing how everything looks. You can then repost on houzz if it is still bugging you, but I think that with other empty areas filled in, you won't have the bowling alley feeling that you are getting now. Please keep us posted as things progress!
    Joanie123 thanked oxfordcomma
  • 10 years ago

    Thanks so much. Without any experience at furnishing a new home it is a bit overwhelming and hopefully will be easier once we're in.

  • 10 years ago
    I can't get a good picture. It is a terrible angle so you can't really see anything.
    Joanie123 thanked Leslie Brooks
  • 10 years ago

    Sorry, it's the best I could get. These pics are not taken by me since my house isn't ready yet. I'm using photos taken by someone else of the exact same model as my home.

  • 10 years ago
    I have to add my vote for no table too. A floor runner and some beautiful art with drapes for the Windows would look lovely and uncluttered. Make your statement in the entry :). Good luck!
    Joanie123 thanked eaw 513
  • 10 years ago

    Oops! Sorry Leslie, I thought you meant my photos. Now I realize you meant your shelf.

  • 10 years ago

    I found this on Houzz. They say it's a coat rack but I think you could use it as just a wall shelf. It's 58" long and only 6" deep so it wouldn't encroach on your space. Add photos or other decorative objects to it to create a focal point for your wall.

    Joanie123 thanked katinparadise
  • 10 years ago

    Love the idea. Thanks so much.

  • 10 years ago

    You're welcome. Congratulations on your new home!

    Joanie123 thanked katinparadise
  • 10 years ago

    Thanks. Can't wait to get in so I can finally start putting things together!

  • 10 years ago

    Joanie123, when are you moving in?

  • PRO
    9 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Congratulations on your new home! If you tend to lean towards lighter colors, here is one of our transitional carpet runners in your space.

    Reference Rug No. 80183 | Size: 02'03 x 26'04

    If you prefer darker colors, let me know and I'll search our Extra Long Carpet Runners and Photoshop it in your space.

    Best,
    Esmaili Rugs and Antiques, Inc.

  • PRO
    9 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Here is one of our vintage Oushak carpet runners that Erica Evensen Design used in one of her client's homes. The entry is narrow and has light color wood floors. Look how she paired the entry table with the red/gray/black Oushak. LOVE how it turned out!

    Esmaili Rugs and Antiques Collaborates with Erica Evensen Design · More Info

    Esmaili Rugs and Antiques Collaborates with Erica Evensen Design · More Info

  • PRO
    9 years ago

    That Oushak is gorgeous!

  • 7 years ago

    Reading all the advice has been so helpful. I also have a long, narrow entry hall and currently have a small 12" deep table there, with a small lamp and a framed picture above it. However, it has always looked insignificant & 'postage stamp' size to me and it truly is in the way. There are no windows for visual interest. Only a staircase. A doorway that leads into a powder room is off the entry hall too, so a long runner interferes with opening the doorway so I have to keep the runner off-center and that also looks stupid. I'm now looking for a shorter runner, and a matching rug for in front of the front door instead. Like the person posting her question, my entryway hall has always looked boring and incomplete. It is a true dilemma!!! I'm anxious to see if she posts pictures of how she completed her entry hall.