28 Stylish Staircase Ideas That Make the Most of Every Step
Make your staircase the star with looks for every home.
Most people think of the staircase purely in terms of function. But according to pros, the stairs are an often-overlooked space where you can infuse some personality into your home. We’ve collected our favorite staircase design ideas that make the most of this space. Experts share ways you can use paint, wallpaper, rugs, artwork, furniture, and other elements to create a statement-worthy staircase.
In addition to giving the stairs, railings, and walls themselves a makeover, pros also shared ideas for how to better utilize the space under the stairs. You can turn this awkward area into a cozy reading nook, an extra storage area, or a small home office.
Many of these ideas are easy to DIY. Something as simple as applying a fresh coat of paint can be done in a single weekend. Adding some greenery or a stylish new runner can be even quicker. While these projects aren’t time-consuming, they can make a major visual impact.
Ahead, check out our favorite staircase design ideas for every home. For more inspiration to help you make the most of your home’s landing, read up on the small entryway ideas designers love and clever mudroom ideas to keep your home organized.
Painted Railing
Upgrade your banister with a fresh coat of paint, whether you stick to a neutral shade or go for a bright hue. Here, interior designer Kate Lester chooses a playful baby blue.
Simple Runner
For this L-shaped staircase, Studio Munroe adds a subtle geometric runner rug to bring texture to this bright entryway.
Unfinished Wood Treads
To achieve a clean, natural aesthetic, interior designer Emily Henderson sticks to white walls, then layers in reclaimed wood treads and a vertical black railing.
Sleep Nook
Craft a cozy corner beneath the stairs, filling it with plush throw pillows and blankets. Designed by Ashley Gilbreath, this light-filled nook is the perfect place to rest or read.
Moody Florals
It's surprisingly simple to paint your stair treads. Stick with a solid shade or tackle a pattern, portrait or landscape — like these vintage-inspired flowers.
Striped Wallpaper
If you don't want to upgrade your stairs, elevate the entry with a fresh wallpaper pattern — like this red and white stripe design.
Wrought Iron Railing
Create intrigue with an ornamental wrought iron railing, like interior designer Amy Sklar does here with a unique swirled design. For a perfect pairing, she decorates with an iron lantern-style pendant in the foyer.
Window Seat
If you have the space, your staircase landing is the perfect place for an adorable window seat. Go for a wooden settee, tufted bench or set of sleek stools to complete the space.
Black Spiral Staircase
This sleek interior, designed by BHDM Design, features a glossy black spiral staircase that serves as the focal point of the room. Keep in mind: if you're in a smaller home or apartment, spiral staircases take up less space.
Statement Lighting
Probably the most obvious way to upgrade your stairwell is with a show-stopping chandelier. Take a note from interior designer Reena Sotropa and find a fixture that doubles as art.
Reading Hideaway
Make use of an awkward space by building a quiet reading nook under your curved staircase. Interior designer Bria Hammel adds built-book shelves and a bench, then sprinkles in a mix of modern and antique decor.
Staircase Screen
Not only does this timber staircase screen by Teass | Warren Architects create a sense of privacy and separation, it also serves as a safety precaution. Now, it's impossible to fall to the right of this sleek staircase.
Antique Details
Layer in vintage pieces, whether that's in the form of artwork, furniture or tabletop decor. One example: this historic desk at the foot of the stairs paired with a set of heirloom table lamps.
A Touch of Greenery
From the floral wallpaper and gallery wall full of mirrors to the fresh green garland draped down the banister, this bright entry takes a maximalist approach. While we often associate garland with holiday decor, we love this idea for year-round use!
RELATED: Best Christmas Staircase Decorations to Beautify Your Holiday Home
Winder Stairs
With a triangle-shaped landing, this winder staircase is brought to live with a classic stripe runner rug. Designer Amy Sklar keeps the banister, railing and stair risers white to create balance.
Dark Wood Versus White
Here, designer Mary Patton plays with the contrast of rich wood stair treads and a wrought iron railing against bright, white stair risers.
Terracotta Tiles
Adorned with handmade terracotta tiles from Tabarka Studio, this staircase exudes a fun, playful energy. Designer Michelle Lisac mixes three graphic tile designs and creates a pattern as you move up each riser.
Oversized Wall Art
Make any staircase feel grand with striking artwork, especially a black-and-white display that covers the majority of the wall. Recreate this look from designer Maggie Griffin and consider a triptych.
Extra Storage
Whether it's with built-ins or narrow cabinets, storage at the bottom of the stairs is a great way to maximize space. Don't forget the details though. Sleek brass door hardware can add a touch of luxury to the setup.
DIY Runner
With a little inspiration and elbow grease, you can install your own patterned runner. According to this blogger, it's best to go with an indoor/outdoor rug made out of polypropylene or a wool rug — and definitely avoid cotton.
Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) leads Good Housekeeping’s gift guide strategy. She writes and edits commerce content, where she analyzes lifestyle trends, shopping data, and works closely with the Good Housekeeping Institute to recommend top-tested products. Previously, she was the associate lifestyle editor for GH and wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, BobVila.com, and Unique Homes Magazine. When she’s not tracking down buzzy products, you can find her walking her dog, Skye, around Jersey City.
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