The Stunning Home Design Solution For An Unused Empty Hallway

While most rooms in your home probably have clear defined purposes that make them easy to decorate and use, hallways can be a bit tricky. It's easy to think of them as just passages to get from one room to another, leading us to ignore them. However, your hallway doesn't have to be a forgotten and unloved space. Instead, with a bit of work, some basic bookshelves, and some trim and paint, you can transform your empty hallway into the dark academia library of your dreams.

Before you get to work creating your library and filling it with dark academia decor though, it's important to take some measurements and choose shelves that won't block your hallway. This should be easy if you have a wide corridor, but for narrower hallways, you may need to either opt for a shallow bookshelf that doesn't stick out from the wall too much or locate your books at the end of your hallway (ensuring that you never block any doors). For longer hallways, multiple bookshelves next to each other may be the best way to take full advantage of the space. Once you've measured your space and found a bookcase or bookcases that are a good fit, you're ready to assemble them according to the instructions and set them up in your hall.

If you want a similar look as what's shown in the YouTube video above, purchase the BILLY corner bookcase from IKEA. Once the bookcase is in your hallway, transforming it into the ornate home library of your dreams is all in the details. If your bookcase has adjustable shelves, start by using spackle to fill in any unused holes in the bookcases. Then, use safety brackets to secure your bookshelves to the wall. Next, add trim to the bookcases to disguise the brackets and hide any empty space above or next to the shelves. Continue the trim through the hall to help unify the space and give the impression that the bookcases are built-ins. You can also add rounded arches to the top corners of the bookcases, too.

Once all these pieces are attached, you're ready to add primer and paint. Dark walnut or chestnut could be perfect colors if you're going for a dark academia aesthetic in the space. Once the paint dries, your library is technically ready to use. However, before you rush to fill up your bookshelves, adding in a few extra details will take your hallway library to the next level. Install some remote-controlled accent lights on top of each bookcase to illuminate the space. The two-pack of battery-operated Skairipa Picture Lights on Amazon could be a great choice. Elements like luxurious jewel-toned rugs and vintage photographs and art will also help tie together your space and turn your hallway from an ignored corridor into the heart of your home.