First impressions count - so make a great entrance to your home with your hallway.

Leslie Geddes-Brown, author of Hallways, Corridors & Staircases, says nowadays every spare inch of space is vital and so halls can either be a stunning area to walk through with displays of photos or paintings or can be used for a multitude of purposes with the addition of seating, maybe a desk tucked under the stairs, or clever storage areas.

FLOORING

Think flooring before walls as it has a dramatic effect, especially in a hallway where the eye is naturally drawn downwards and to the key feature - usually the stairs.

Don't rush into a flooring choice, mistakes can be expensive and it is more costly to change than paint or wallpaper.

As a guide, using the same flooring for hall, landings and stairways helps create a cohesive feel in a home.

Hard flooring, such as wood or ceramic tiles is practical and attractive for hallways. Trendy choices are industrial-style rubber flooring, or cork tiles which have made a comeback.

CARPET

Create a subtle contrast between a staircase and a hallway by using different carpeting on each. Choose a striped runner for the stairs, which picks up the colour of the main carpet which should be plain or textured.

Ensure both carpets are a wool mix for durability. John Lewis has an excellent selection of carpeting to suit all budgets. Choose carpets which are suitable for heavy traffic areas.

The Carpet Foundation offers advice on how to choose carpets. (0845 601 2200 / www.carpetfoundation.com)

Brighten neutral carpeting, or even cover worn patches with colourful rugs. Ikea has one of the best priced ranges of rugs around.

COLOUR

Halls are often narrow, and can be dark which makes colour choice challenging. Neutral shades generally work best for walls, and woodwork looks good either painted lighter or darker.

Take inspiration for colour from a painting, or a collection of plates which can be displayed in the hall. Pick out one or two shades and echo them in wall and woodwork colours.