Experts reveal the one furnishing that will instantly make a small hallway feel bigger

It's the question that never fails to spark fierce discussions amongst interior designers and homeowners alike – how do we make small hallways look bigger? Certain colors, wallpaper, and even flooring may create the illusion of space, but now experts have suggested that the key may lay in one important furnishing – a chandelier. 

Yes, when looking for new hallway ideas, the figures at the very top of the interior world suggest looking towards a chandelier. The furnishing creates an illusion of space and injects an unrivaled ambiance into the setting. No matter the size. 

So, the time has come to delve into the elegant world of the most luxurious furnishing of them all because first impressions count, after all. 

How do chandeliers make a small hallway look bigger?  

(Image credit: Owen Pacey home, photography by Graham Atkins Hughes)

See: How to make your hallway feel happy by interiors expert Michelle Ogundehin

Don't be afraid to opt for a statement chandelier in smaller spaces,' states Jane Rockett, Co-founder at Rockett St George. 'Chandeliers come in a range of sizes but opting for a bigger, bolder design not only adds more light to the space but also helps establish a central focal point and sense of grandeur in smaller hallways and entrances.' 

Antique specialist and Founder of Renaissance London, Owen Pacey, also encourages us to experiment with a chandelier in small hallways to ensure it has a 'serious wow-factor' that steals your guest's attention. 

'A great way to level up your hallway is with a grand, statement chandelier, whether that's an ornate, rococo-style, gilt piece or a contemporary sputnik globe,' he suggests.

How to style a chandelier in a small hallway

(Image credit: Buster + Punch)

Curate the lighting levels with a dimmer

While using the chandelier as a large source of light and a striking focal point instantly improves the feel of a small space, Jane suggests accentuating the lighting's indisputable power 'Make sure you fit a dimmer so that the central chandelier twinkles and sparkles, rather than dazzles and glares.'

(Image credit: Rockett St George)

Pair the chandelier with a large wall mirror

The only thing better than one chandelier is two chandeliers, by pairing the light fixture with a mirror you can enjoy the glory of two fittings in one quick move. 

'A trick for small hallway spaces is to combine your chandelier with a beautiful wall mirror,' says Jane. 'The addition of a mirror reflects light back into the room to create the feeling of extra space, and the trick of the reflection reveals the luxe illusion of two chandeliers instead of one.' 

Don't be scared to go bold with an oversized fitting 

(Image credit: Owen Pacey home, photography by Graham Atkins Hughes)

See: 8 best wood beaded chandeliers: embellished beauties, big on boho style

Owen Pacey also urges us not to shy away from introducing a statement chandelier in our small hallways and suggests styling the light 'in proportion to the area'

'In smaller hallways, you can create a real impact by using an oversized chandelier, or perhaps a flush-style ceiling lamp where ceilings are lower.' 

Is this the ultimate small hallway tip? We're willing to invest in an abundance of chandeliers to test this theory out – and we hope everybody will follow our cue.