Expert tips on illuminating your staircase

Lighting underneath the lips of stairs creates a minimalistic mystery

If you are interested in modern, minimalistic lighting - illuminating the lip of steps is a clever way to achieve this. Lights underneath the lip of a step or beside them can create a minimalistic, sleek look, as the fitting is hidden.

This lighting option creates a dramatic glow on the treads below. Placing lights in this way allows you to take advantage of any bends and edges to plot a textured lighting scheme. This style may require the assistance of a professional for correct fitting, however, the result will be aesthetically pleasing and authentic.

Juliette Thomas states: “Hidden lighting that shines gently across or underneath the treads of your stairs will highlight the beautiful materials used. Small uplighters can be used to draw the eye to bannisters and vertical elements. Soft or coloured lighting adds an extra dimension. This must be in a style to complement your staircase, not fight with it.”

Lighting just the staircase riser creates a glare-free, subtle, and soothing atmosphere. This is ideal if you are seeking lighting that isn’t too harsh or bright.

Juliette adds: “Lighting needs to be used sympathetically to enhance the overall feel. Soft lighting creates a warm, welcoming mood while cool lighting provides a contemporary and airy feel.”

Lighting attached to the wall can emphasise details of a staircase

Wall lights work particularly well on timber staircases, as they can complement the colour and texture of the wood. They can help draw your eyes to each tread. Wall lighting also adds decorative elements whilst providing a good general glow of light.  If your staircase is designed from wood that has a warm colour, cooler lighting can complement the wood whilst creating an eye-catching contrast.

Jo Mann shares her tips on complementing the textures of a staircase:

“If you place a light fitting near to the surface of the stairs, the light will skim across, picking up the texture.  The closer the fitting to the surface, the stronger the effect.  You can use square or round step lights to wash across the tread, or uplights underneath an open staircase to uplight a textured wall.”

To avoid harsh glares, avoid installing wall lighting above every step. This ensures your staircase lighting isn’t too busy and doesn’t overpower the architectural details of your staircase.

Jo adds: “Small lights tend to be more discreet, so are preferable in my opinion.  There are some beautifully designed products which have a baffle or a deep recess and this really helps to hide the source of light. Small lights are best set every second or third step, centered in the stringer.”

Make use of high ceilings with a classic statement chandelier

A feature lighting or central chandelier can be installed as an artistic statement or simply complement the surrounding décor within a home. A chandelier can be a good addition if you want lighting that doesn’t alter the staircase design.

Jo explains how a chandelier combined with step lights can create impact:

“Choosing a stunning pendant/chandelier to hang over a stairwell, paired with low-level step lights, will create an interesting effect.”

If you have a high ceiling, a chandelier is a good way to take advantage of the extra space. High ceiling lighting often needs a large item as small lighting may look disproportionate. To achieve the best possible effect, your chandelier needs to be the right size for complementing your staircase.

Juliette advises: “Personally, I love a striking chandelier, modern or traditional, but too big and it will overpower your staircase. Too small and your lighting will look insignificant, more like an afterthought. Plan your lighting as part of your staircase design.”

Consider the safety factors of lighting for children

Although lighting creates a statement, a key function of staircase lighting is for navigation purposes – particularly if the surrounding lighting is dim. This function is especially important if you have children. Juliette advises: “Never forget that whatever lighting you choose, you must be able to see your way up and down the stairs. If your overhead or wall lighting is very subdued, consider adding lighting to the steps for safety. If it is within the reach of children, make sure you use LED lighting so there is no heat for little fingers to get hurt.”

Motion sensing stair lighting is ideal for ensuring your staircase is safe for children. It is also a great way to conserve your electrical energy expense budget plan, as the lights will only turn on when someone walks up the stairs

Built for safety, motion sensing stair lighting consists of a small battery-powered box with a motion sensor inside. When a person walks up to the light, it immediately activates to ensure safe access to the stairwell.