I have the same hall way, so really loved everyone's ideas! I have thought about clearing out a closet on one wall, removing the doors and putting a sleeping closet in there that stays open to the hallway to give it more width. It would only be cot sized because of the depth possibly with book shelves and a light looking like one of those European wall niches with a bed. Because I love rustic, I would layer it with a collection of wool blankets, fun pillows and maybe a pictures and/or old postcards. I have lots of guest and a child could sleep on the cot. Now, to figure out what to do with what is in the closet! What do you think of that idea? My hallway is actually the same color. I've also been thinking of running a 2 pieces of wood down the hall apart enough to hang pictures between them in an effort to make a more tidy gallery, but fear it would lengthen and skinny up the look of the hallway. If the ceiling was darker than the walls would it cause the widith to look wider? Here is a link that might be useful: Winchuck River Store

ditto on the runner that covers 3/4 of the length. a pattern that has 'stripes' going side to side will push the walls back. wide stripes work best. keep the bathroom door closed, paint it a strong color that goes with the runner, it will pull the end of the hall towards the viewer. with the door open you are making the 'tunnel' 6 feet longer. (this works on long narrow bathrooms too, where the tub is at the far end... a strong shower curtain pulls the far end towards you). don't hang things on the wall, you'll never be able to actually see the fronts, only the edges, which will make the space narrower.

If you want to improve lighting maybe you can get the ok from landlord to replace the light yourself, or you pay someone to do it, a handyman. You would have to leave it if you move out and not expect landlord to reimburse you for it. Maybe a light with directional lights like this: https://www.progresslightingexperts.com/lighting/18-465-746-0-352360/Progress_Wisten---Three-Light-Wall-Ceiling-Mount-P3361-20.htm?CAWELAID=1818687502&utm_source=google&campaignid=348224166&adgroupid=22972214766&adposition=1o11&keyword=&network=g&matchtype=&device=m&devicemodel=&source=googleshoppiNG&kw=ProgressDedicated-PLA_70;ProgressLighting-AllItems&ac=hurry&gclid=Cj0KCQiAq97uBRCwARIsADTziya29a4E-bQlph5L4SWygrT0j9A0a30qwkK8svt-arIXgXX9mlRMCcEaAtWWEALw_wcB

Have you considered entirely removing the door from the hallway entrance? That gives you more flexibility with sizes. I really prefer "C" but much will depend on what you can find that is ready to go, especially if you're looking at antique rugs. I would not worry if the area in front of the bedroom door were just flooring. Here's a company provided by "This Old House" for a squeak stopping kit. Check it out and see if your husband could work with it. Maybe someone you know could send it to you if they don't ship overseas.