Hallways are basically corridors where you can find buildings and many homes. These are common spaces that give you access to other rooms. They can be of many different sizes, depending on the space available in your home interiors. In most cases, hallways are narrow and long. However, you must keep in mind that it is a space that will receive high traffic. Hence, adequate space should be left for your hallway entrance design accordingly.
The hallway dimensions will ensure people can move easily. You do not have to worry about the space getting too crowded when you host parties. However, it is more important that you choose the right dimensions in an apartment building. This is because multiple people will use the hallway, especially during an emergency.
Always remember that the hallway width cannot be chosen randomly. You will have to take a lot of factors into consideration before finalising your decision. For instance, the type of building has a huge influence on the size of the hallway. This will allow you to create the right hallway size. Whether you are designing a home interior or a building, it is always better to choose a wider hallway instead of a narrow one.
The minimum hallway width experts suggest is 36 inches (approximately 91 centimeters). It is ideal for only one person to walk freely. If another person comes from the other direction, they will not be able to cross each other comfortably. Only one person can move in one single direction at a time. It appears narrow.
You can also get a wide hallway entrance design for your home or building if sufficient space is available. This will ensure that your hallway does not appear cramped. The minimum width suggested for this by experts is 42 inches or 107 centimeters. It will ensure that the hallway is wide enough to appear slightly spacious.
Average Hallway Size
Choosing at least the standard width is very crucial while designing your hallway. The standard width suggested by experts is set after taking various factors into account. For instance, it ensures that the hallway is easily accessible, has sufficient space, and can accommodate a few things. You can go above the minimum width (36 inches) if more space is available.
Most people do not like a 36 inch wide hallway. They prefer slightly bigger hallways. The average hallway width you will find in most homes is 42 inches or 107 centimeters. However, it can extend to 48 inches or 122 centimeters as well. Some people are not satisfied with a 48 inch wide hallway. In such cases, you can create a hallway 60 to 68 inches wide, depending on the free space.
If you are choosing a 60 to 68 inch wide hallway decor design, it cannot be considered narrow anymore. These hallway entrance designs are two-way hallways. This means two people walking in opposite directions can cross each other without any discomfort. However, these hallway designs are not very popular in residential homes as people do not require so much free space in the hallway. You will mostly find such wide hallway designs in offices, apartments, and various public spaces.
How wide Should a hallway be?
The size of the hallway varies from home to home. It strictly depends on the needs and preferences. However, it should never be less than 36 inches or 91 centimeters, as mentioned above. It is the minimum size, and people cannot walk in a hallway comfortably narrower than this. Also, handicapped people may find it difficult to access a lobby narrower than 36 inches. In countries like the US, you will strictly have to follow this rule while designing a hallway.
Some people have larger homes. Hence, you do not have to stick to the minimum size. A larger home can accommodate a larger hallway. 48 inches or 122 centimeters are considered ideal for slightly larger homes. These hallways can accommodate small furniture pieces and decor items. As a result, they are more appealing and functional. However, you can only fit narrow furniture pieces if you want a smooth flow of traffic.
Some people are blessed with large homes. They can afford to go for expansive and grand options. You can choose a hallway decor design anywhere between 54 to 72 inches for such homes. They appear large and will ensure traffic can flow smoothly, even when there are more people using the hallway. You can get furniture pieces, like a console table, for your wide hallway. It will not appear too big. Even a chaise lounge can be fitted in your hallway for storage.
If you want to opt for an even larger hallway, you can choose an L-shaped hallway. They are very popular in large homes. The L-shape design appears more inviting. Just ensure that you add sufficient lighting fixtures to keep the space well-lit.
