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The tops of individual stairs (the part you step on) are called treads. Vibrant colors are hardly the only way to decorate a visually interesting staircase. Here, intriguing patterns and textures—all in neutral colors—add up to a satisfying space that's not wanting for more. A ladder is a cute and quirky addition to any home that instantly builds charm. Be sure to include deep-enough risers at not too steep intervals so that climbing the ladder is as easy as any other staircase.
Solid Wood Staircase
Its simple design doesn't draw attention away from the soaring ceilings and plentiful windows. A dark paint color on the risers and stringer of this staircase matches the rest of the trim in the foyer. The dark base helps both the wood on the staircase and the art above to stand out against the white-painted walls.
The Benefits of Paragon’s Metal Staircases
Painted balusters are an easy, do-it-yourself way to add color to a white stairwell. Here, Will Taylor of Bright Bazaar used shades of blue and gave the design a dynamic layout by pairing two spindles in the same hue on adjacent treads (instead of on the same level). This stunning staircase by Istanbul-based design studio Sanayi313 features a black-and-white patterned custom carpet, as well as a unique looking handrail, which is made from silk rope. In her previous home, Shannon McLaren of California’s Praire needed to redesign her floating stairs to ensure they were up to code and kid-friendly. Because she loved the airy effect of the original setup, she chose to pay homage to that design and worked thick, see-through glass spindles into the mix. McLaren finished off the staircase with a custom walnut railing and green Missoni carpeting.
Styles & Designs
There are several types of stairs, including straight, floating, L-shaped, U-shaped, curved, spiral, and bifurcated. The three key elements to consider when deciding the kind of stairs for your remodel include the series of treads (the part where your foot rests), the riser (the vertical part), and the shape. A good staircase design can enhance the overall aesthetic of your home. Here are some popular types of stairs to know for your new build or remodel.

A Romantic Entryway
This unique staircase design by Prestige Railings & Stairs Ltd. incorporates a custom-made metal railing with an organic, flowing shape that adds a touch of artistry to the space. This staircase by Dynamic Property Services, Inc. features a floating design with glass panels and wood treads, creating a modern and elegant look. The use of lighting under each step adds an extra layer of interest and safety. You can modernize an existing staircase with a new paint job, a colorful stair runner, or a new handrail. If remodeling or designing a staircase feels overwhelming, look to this timeless design, which features mid-tone wood treads and railings and white paint everywhere else.
The most magnificent stairways often look more like works of art, such as this serpentine piece that coils as it rises. Building these stairs combined the skills of various artisans who work with wood, metal, and drywall. This shapely staircase gently widens as it meets the grand foyer, creating a smooth transition between levels. Decorative molding applied to the walls throughout the foyer blends well with the dramatic look of the staircase. Spiral staircases are not only gorgeous, but they’re a clever solution if you’re remodeling a narrow space like this one.
This approach won't produce the staircase's grand and sophisticated signature look. The downside of these stairs is that they are the most challenging to design and build, making them an expensive design choice. This farmhouse-inspired entryway features dark wood steps framed by an eclectic gallery wall that leads to a loft space upstairs. Do us a favor and go take a look at your staircase head-on—what do you see?
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For this L-shaped staircase, Studio Munroe adds a subtle geometric runner rug to bring texture to this bright entryway. Embrace raw authenticity with an industrial mesh railing flanking your staircase. Born from the gritty essence of factories and warehouses, this design brings rugged charm to contemporary spaces. This design marvel doesn’t just connect levels; it celebrates space and volume. The expansive verticality, often punctuated by tall windows or art pieces, transforms the act of climbing stairs into a grand affair.
Wood-and-White Stairway
The warm tones of the wood, paired with the gentle creak underfoot, tell tales of generations past and memories forged. The sinuous flow of the steps, often grand in presentation, makes it a favorite for entryways and central home spaces. As one ascends or descends, the changing perspectives and angles provide a dynamic visual experience.
Tiny home has ‘gorgeous’ arched design, spiral staircase and 600 square feet of space – and sells for as li... - The US Sun
Tiny home has ‘gorgeous’ arched design, spiral staircase and 600 square feet of space – and sells for as li....
Posted: Mon, 19 Jun 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]
These guidelines are intended to make staircases as safe as possible. If you have an accessible ceiling above the stairway, add a series of hanging lights, making sure they are low enough to provide enough lighting. A little mix of wood and carpeting in this stairway area by Highmark Builders.
Paired with ornate balusters or a sweeping handrail, the curved staircase becomes a testament to the artistry of carpentry and design. It’s more than just a pathway between levels; it’s a dance of form and function, gracefully leading the way with every turn. The understated elegance of the cables, combined with their industrial charm, creates a harmonious blend of form and function. Whether you’re scaling heights indoors or navigating outdoor steps, the cable railing ensures a secure grip, all while turning your staircase into a modern-day design voyage.
A unique design by Douglas Design Studio for a small space, this staircase features a combination of wood treads and metal risers, creating a modern industrial look. The open riser design also helps to maximize natural light throughout the space. So, as you focus on the functional parts, do not forget the décor and aesthetics. We have a few stairway design ideas to make your boring stairway come to life.
There are various style options depending on your budget, the level of maintenance you are looking for and your décor preferences. Some staircases, such as this one, have space for storage underneath. A row of drawers provides convenient stowaway spots for every family member. In addition, a recessed niche next to the drawers offers open storage space for larger items like bags and baskets. The wall covering extends onto a doorway, disguising the basement entrance.
From modern wooden steps with iron railings to traditional staircases with elegant balusters, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite stairway styles from the pages of H&H. The use of a combination of metal and glass in the railing adds an element of interest to the space. This sleek and modern staircase by Michael Donahue Builders features a floating design with wood treads and a glass railing system. The use of lighting under each step adds an extra layer of interest and safety, while the open riser design allows light to flow through the space. Paragon’s prefab metal stairs offer high-quality, attractive staircase designs and are ready-to-ship in only 7 to 10 business days.
This stunning spiral staircase by John Maniscalco Architecture features wood treads and a metal railing system, creating a beautiful contrast between natural and industrial materials. The open design allows light to flow through the space, highlighting the beautiful architecture. This staircase by Wools of New Zealand has a traditional look with wood treads and white painted risers, but the addition of a boldly patterned carpet adds a playful touch. This stunning staircase by Designer Floors Inc. features wood treads and white painted risers, with a unique design that incorporates a bookshelf under the stairs. The use of wood for the bookshelf and railing creates a cohesive look throughout the space.
Paired with wooden steps or exposed brick walls, the mesh railing provides a tactile contrast, blending the rough with the refined. It’s more than just a protective barrier; it’s a nod to industrial heritage, repurposed for modern living. The matte finish or wrought intricacies of the metal can evoke industrial chic or modern artistry, depending on the design. Acting as the spine of the staircase, the black railing stands out against lighter backgrounds, anchoring the space with its undeniable presence. The sheer transparency of the glass creates an illusion of a wider, airier space, making it a favorite for those aiming for a minimalist, light-filled interior. But beyond aesthetics, the glass railing offers a tangible sense of security, wrapping the staircase in a delicate embrace.