Features of narrow shoe racks in the hallway

One of the reasons for the clutter in the hallway is the lined up or randomly scattered shoes. This spoils the impression of the room and steals valuable square meters. This issue can be solved by purchasing a shoe rack. Therefore, it is worth considering the features of this product, as well as the proposals of leading manufacturers and selection criteria.

The presence of a shoe rack allows:

• avoid deformation of shoes left in the hallway;
• to achieve uniformity of its drying;
• organize space more rationally;
• move freely around the room;
• solve the problem with choosing the right shoes.

Besides, a narrow shoe rack in the hallway will not take up much space. At the same time, its installation will reduce the number of objects in the field of view. And if the structure is equipped with a seat, mirror or other accessories, its functionality is increased.

It is important to take into account that the shoe rack requires more frequent cleaning. Especially in the spring-autumn season, when it is impossible to come from the street in clean shoes. In addition, if the hallway is too narrow, you will have to be more careful when choosing a mechanism for opening the doors. Otherwise, it will be difficult to use the product.

By design, shoe racks are divided into built-in and cabinet ones. The first option is convenient to organize if there is a niche in the corridor or it is possible to equip it. In other cases, the choice falls on body products.

In this case, the user can choose one of the options.

• Open construction. It is attractive because of its good ventilation. As a result, the footwear placed in it dries well, which eliminates problems with unpleasant odor and fungus. However, open shelves do not protect against dirt and dust, which is considered a disadvantage.

• Closed shoe cabinet. It is comfortable because it protects the shoes from dust and dirt from the outside, as well as from the teeth and claws of pets. However, lack of ventilation can cause a musty smell. Therefore, dry shoes should be placed in a closed shelf. If possible, it makes sense to opt for a model with a built-in ventilation system.

• Slim, which is a narrow vertical shoe cabinet with shelves up to 20 cm wide.

Angular and wall models are becoming unusual options for shoe racks. The first option is suitable if the hallway has a free corner sufficient to accommodate a shelf. Such structures are usually characterized by good storage capacity, which is combined with space savings and a lightweight appearance. The second option is used in confined spaces, combined with a hanger.

The mirrored surface of a closed shoe cabinet is useful from several points of view. First of all, such a solution visually enlarges the space. And also a glance in the mirror before leaving the house will help to re-evaluate the chosen image or correct any shortcomings.

If the height of the shoe rack is at the level of the pedestal, its upper part is made in the form of a seat. Such a functional combination is useful for people who, due to their age or other characteristics, wear shoes while sitting. For added convenience and aesthetics, some use pillows and removable covers that change according to mood or season.

Instead of a regular shoe rack, you can consider other pieces of furniture for storing shoes.

• Multifunctional cabinets, in addition to shoe racks, including cabinets for hats, hangers, umbrella stands or drawers for small accessories.

• Models combined with a dryer and an ultraviolet lamp. As a result, the shoes located there are dried and disinfected. It is worth remembering that such a device requires a power source. In addition, each pair of new shoes will have to be checked for compatibility with mechanical drying, so as not to accidentally spoil.

• Shoe racks. Swivel designs can take up floor-to-ceiling space. It is convenient for a large family. However, here you need to take into account the low stability, dimensions and dust settling on the shoes, if the structure is open.

The place for storing shoes can be made of different materials.

• A metal that gives the structure strength and durability. The surface of such products is usually coated with a layer of paint or chrome-plated. This protects the iron parts from negative external influences, and also gives the shelf an aesthetic appearance. Metal shoe racks are easy to care for, odorless and can be easily combined with different styles. So, forged products are the optimal addition to the classic interior. However, when buying a model made of metal, its weight should be taken into account.

• Wood that combines strength and durability with an exclusive look. Due to the value of the material, the prices for such products are quite high. In addition, wooden shelves make them bulky and heavy, which is impractical in a narrow hallway.

• Chipboard, which allows, due to the low cost, to create budget options for shoe racks. At the same time, the products also do not differ in high quality and durability.

• Plastic that gives the shelf an attractive appearance combined with low weight. It should be borne in mind that the material is fragile, therefore it requires careful handling. Plastic shoe racks often adorn hallways decorated in modern styles.

• Thick fabric. Such models rarely go on the mass market. They are more often made to order.

Since the first impression of a home is received by the visitor, finding himself in the hallway, this part of the house also requires a decent stylistic design. The chosen design determines the parameters of the furniture, including the shoe rack.

• For classic style forged models are suitable, as well as products from valuable wood species (ash, beech, walnut or wenge). Intricate decor will also be appropriate here.

• Provence assumes the use of vintage models with a simplified design. In this case, the best solution would be to buy a wooden or rattan wicker bookcase.

• For loft-style interiors products with stricter and more coarse textures will be required. The best solution would be metal, MDF or chipboard. Artificial aging and combination of the body with a leather seat look spectacular here.

• For country retro models made of light, poorly hewn wood are suitable. Simple geometric shapes are welcome here, comfort and functionality are appreciated.

• Scandinavian style allows the installation of a shelf for shoes made of light wood, frosted glass, as well as glass-metal combinations.

• For hi-tech laconicism, geometric consistency and versatility of furniture are important. The color gamut is limited to black, white and various shades of gray.

Many factories that produce cabinet furniture are engaged in the manufacture of shoe racks. Famous manufacturers include the following brands:

• "Alina" - manufactures products serially and to order, including models of non-standard sizes;
• "Monolith" - works with cabinet furniture, customers appreciate the design and speed of work;
• "Sofia" - attracts with interesting design, quality and periodic discounts;
• "Victoria" - the advantages of this Moscow factory are called impeccable work, from service to delivery;
• Dial - the policy of the factory assumes the quality and durability of products, as well as attention to all complaints from customers.

The purchase of a shoe rack is determined by the needs of the family. Therefore, when choosing the appropriate option, several criteria must be taken into account.

• The type and quantity of shoes that will be stored in the shoe rack. So, for low boots, a lower shelf height is required than for high ones. It should be borne in mind that a shelf with a seat or a curbstone can only contain products for one season. To accommodate the entire shoe collection, you will need a taller and more spacious version.
• Hallway options. In narrow rooms, it is impossible to comfortably accommodate wide overall products. Therefore, you will have to take measurements before going to the store in order to choose the option of the desired width. The depth of the shelves in the shoe rack can be 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20.25, 40 cm.
• Expected effect. If you want the shoe shelf to be less visible, it is worth buying a small and low model designed for several pairs of shoes. If spaciousness and functionality are at the forefront, you will need a large structure, complemented by a mirror, an umbrella holder and other useful features.
• Ease of maintenance. The surfaces of the product should not deteriorate in contact with dust and dirt. The product must be easy to clean.

A shoe rack in the hallway can be an unobtrusive piece of furniture, eliminating the chaotic arrangement of shoes. Or become a key figure in the interior thanks to its beautiful and original design. Here are some examples.

• This option is attractive because it does not take up much space. Dark wood gives the product a noble look. The design contains a small box for small items. At the same time, the shoe rack is inconvenient for people who prefer to wear high boots in autumn and winter.

• This model is intended for storing shoes for the season for a small family. There are two shelves on which you can put any products without any problems. Small size allows you to place the product in a limited space.

A shoe rack in a modern interior is seen as an item that helps to save space, keep the hallway tidy and promote comfort. Therefore, the main requirements in choosing a product include compliance with the size (width, height, depth), capacity, ease of care.