How can I hide/decorate this ugly return air flow hallway box?

I have one in my hallway too. Just ignore it and be grateful you have it. You can't cover it as it will cause your system to malfunction. Sometime we just need to remember how lucky we are to have such conveniences and get over the design flaws.

I painted mine the same color as the wall. You can still see it, but it doesn't stand out as much. You shouldn't block or cover the vent. Good airflow is necessary for your HVAC system to function properly.

I agree with Leigh. You can only paint it the same color as the wall.

I would paint it a Bold color and Bling the Edges out lol. Cut strips of pretty wallpaper and put around the edges and the three strips in the middle. Since you can't cover, make it fun and part of your decor as it don't have to be Ugly😎🙏🤷🏽

Cut the back out of a cabinet with louver doors and place in front of it

Create a frame to go over it and stretch some pretty fabric inside the frame. You might even find some that looks like a painting. If you’re talented paint a design with fabric paint.

I have one like that and it is hideous. My plan is to buy a decorative metal sheet, like any of these, https://amzn.to/2Hd21p4 cut to size and then to frame it out and replace the standard one. I hope that helps!

I also paint mine the same color as the wall. As mentioned, air flow is not optional.

Cold air returns should never be covered over! Here are the expert reasons why not

https://aggressivemechanical.com/cold-air-returns/

https://www.valleyheating.com/blog/2017/april/dont-block-your-homes-cold-air-returns/

If you have the money, you could hire an artist to paint a mural that could incorporate it as a textured design in the art to help camouflage.

Hi Phyllis, ere are few ideas you can try to hide or camouflage that aircon - https://hvac.ninja/articles/hide-outdoor-ac/

Paint it the same color or find a vintage decorative grate to go over it. You can't cover it since it's an air return.

I painted mine the same color as the wall. I know if doesn't get rid of it but helps it blend in more so it less noticible.

You could paint it to match. Too you could assemble something with a frame and some decorative sheet metal that has a perforated design. Ultimately you can’t cover it but you can get creative and make your own.

Make a lift off box or frame around the wall and make a cupboard to hide it.

Make it blend in with the surroundings with some paint. I have registers in my floor and they are nearly the same color. They don't stand out at all.