Hallway Progress

It's been a few weeks since we posted about the Pinterest projects we've completed lately.  One of those was a sneak peak of our downstairs hallway update.

In the spirit of getting things done on the cheap we tackled the hallway knowing that: 
A) it was a project that could be done in a day
B) it would be affordable - some trim wood and a can of paint

The goal was to try and use this space as a place to add personal touch that doesn't need a commitment - like a piece of art.  And it could not included frames that need to be taken apart and put back together, that didn't fall into our definition of easy.  

The first order of business was paint.  We took home three samples and Matt ended up winning with his choice of Benjamin Moore Lacey Pearl.  An off white with a light gray tint. 

This is where we started: 

And here is where we ended up:

A huge difference!  I've been hesitant to use cool colors next to our natural wood trim in the Bungalow, but to my surprise, they are all working.  We also switched up type of paint we bought.  We've been purchasing Behr Premium Plus for $35 a gallon.  This time we bought regular Behr paint for $27 a gallon and it's no VOC.  I was extremely happy with the quality and will use it again.  It also only took one coat!  I'm sure that's due to such a light original color, but overall the coverage on the first coat was fantastic. 

Back to the art:

This project was very easy thanks to the router table we inherited from my Dad - thanks Dad!  We purchased high grade pine 1x4 and Matt used the router to add a detail the the bottom and the low profile photo ledge. Then we sanded and stained the wood gray.  For the most part the photos stay up unless you run by quickly.  Yes we're adults, and yes we run around the house sometimes...But it's nothing a little scotch tape can't handle.  Currently the wall is filled with favorite photos, cards, and postcards from friends.  Someday I see this becoming the aspiring child artist gallery wall as well!

The rug is from Target and I love the modern take on plaid.  Our master bedroom is just off this hallway and it has a rustic design element going on. I think the stained wood ledges and plaid are a perfect transition from an eco kitchen to a rustic retreat of a bedroom.  

The only item left on the hallway list to make it complete is a new light fixture. 

Do you treat your hallway as a "room" and have a decor theme for it?  Or what about your fav photos and cards, do you have them on display anywhere?

Time to make dinner - stay tuned for another 18 Preston original recipe soon!