Often, staircases are a part of the house that we forget to maintain as time goes on. This can leave them looking tired and shabby, which just won’t do. Here at Jackson Woodturners, we believe that a stylish staircase has the power to completely transform your home. In this article, we’ll outline some of the best ways to bring life back into your wooden stairs. So, how do you transform wooden stairs? 

In our opinion, some of the best ways to transform wooden stairs is to:

 

 

Keep reading to find out what to do with your wooden stairs and how to design a staircase that you can be proud of. 

What to do with wooden stairs

The majority of us go up and down the stairs everyday without thinking much about it. Often, staircases are a part of the house that we tend to neglect; however, your stairs don’t need to be an afterthought. The staircase is usually one of the first things you’ll notice in an entryway, therefore it makes sense to make your stairs as stunning as possible. Creating a stylish staircase can add so much to your home and can be a really fun and easy area to decorate. In this article, Jackson Woodturners explores some creative ways to style your wooden stairs: 

1. Add lights

Using light effectively is one of the best ways to transform your wooden stairs. Creating the illusion of light and openness can make a staircase appear bigger, creating more of an impact. It also helps ensure that the staircase is the first thing visitors pay attention to when they walk into your home. According to leading director of Lemon and Lime Interiors, 

'A quick and relatively cheap way to make this space appear bigger is to have a feature light fitting at the top of the stairs to draw the eye up. This needs to be modern and light; glass, chandelier-like fittings work best.'

For more lighting inspiration, check out our article, ‘Expert Tips On Illuminating Your Staircase’.

 

2. Paint a design

When it comes to transforming your staircase, don’t be afraid to do your own thing. Painting your own design is a fantastic way to make your stairs completely unique. Get your creative thinking hat on and try to come up with ideas of how to create a stylish design. For example, you could use tape strips to create lines, zig zags or whatever other pattern takes your fancy. Remember to take time to measure your designs as this is key to achieving beautiful detailing. Painting your own design can also be a cost effective and enjoyable project to embark upon.

 

3. Stick to natural wood

Sticking to natural wood is a good way to maintain your stairs character and quality. Although it can be beneficial to paint or add bold colour to your stairs, sometimes, the best way to retain style and elegance is to keep it simple. Wooden treads in particular, look effortless and can last for decades with proper maintenance. Here are some advantages of sticking to natural wood:

 

  • Durability: Wood is a strong and resistant material that will last for many years. Although it may seem like a huge financial outlay initially, you’ll likely not need to replace a wooden staircase in your lifetime. You can also paint, wax, and varnish wooden stairs. Not only does this protect and prevent wear and tear, but it also allows you to switch up the look in your hallway with ease. Take a look at our range of hardwoods on offer, including walnut, ash and oak.

 

  • Easy to clean: All staircases fall victim to spillages, dirt, and dust – not to mention mucky fingerprints and muddy paws if you share your home with children and pets! However, unlike carpeted stairs, wood can be easily cleaned.

 

  • Create a focal point: Wooden stairs are guaranteed to give your home the wow factor, catching the eye of anyone who steps into your house. From modern and contemporary to rustic and vintage, there are various styles to choose from.

 

  • Timeless: One of the biggest benefits of using wood for your staircase is that it will suit the style of your home, whether it’s traditional, minimalist, or shabby chic. Wooden stairs don’t lose their style. You can redecorate as many times as you like, and your staircase will look just as fashionable as the day it was installed.

 

  • Add value to your home: A wooden staircase could add significant value to your home.

 

  • Versatile: Wood is a material that works well on its own, providing a warm and inviting look. However, wooden stair parts can also be paired with other materials for a unique twist. For example, combining wood and metal in your staircase design can strike the perfect balance between traditional and modern. For more inspiration, take a look at our article, ‘Designing An Oak And Glass Staircase | What You Need To Consider’. 

 

4. Use floor tiles

If you’ve dreamed of something bold for your wooden staircase, using floor tiles is the perfect solution. Tile stairs can be unique and chic, with the options for colours and patterns practically endless. If you’re looking to update your home, a tiled staircase will certainly stand out. Here are some of the top benefits of using floor tiles:

 

  • Easy to clean: As tiles are hard, smooth surfaces, they can be easily wiped clean.
  • Easy to maintain: If you drop something on a tile, or if it just starts to break down after heavy usage, it is easy to replace.
  • Affordable: Tiles are very budget-friendly. You can buy multiple sets and easily install them without spending a huge amount of money.
  • Versatile: Tiles can be cut to fit difficult and varied spaces, so are great for staircases which have multiple-sized steps. They are also versatile in design, with all the decorations and designs and colours you can think of available!
  • Cooling effect: Tiles indoors will generally stay cool, perfect if your home is in a hot environment that you want some relief from.

 

Top tip for installing floor tiles - Once you measure the first tile, there is no need to measure them all. Simply place each tile on top of the first and cut, saving yourself time. 

 

5. Create more storage

If you’re looking to create more storage space whilst revamping your stairs, building drawers, bookshelves and cupboards into your staircase is the way to go. Not only does this add style to your staircase but it also adds practicality as you can store books, games and decorations beneath your stairs. 

More often than not, the space on the other side of staircase balustrades is left bare. In this case, you could add a gorgeous wooden shelf to display vases, pictures and books you’d want to showcase. You could even make it stand out more by adding some compact spotlight downlighting or LED strip lighting to highlight your favourite features. 

For more inspiration, take a look at our article, ‘Top Tips From The Experts On Converting The Space Under The Stairs’.

 

6. Include pops of colour

We can all agree that colour makes everything better. If you’re hoping to design a staircase that makes you smile every time you pass by, consider opting for a bold colour scheme. For example, why not try a pastel pink or a sunny yellow shade to brighten up your stairs. Be brave and dare to try something different!

 

7. Use unique prints

Making a statement in your home can be simple with the right accessories.  A unique print can add life to any part of your space by enhancing your neutral colours. For example, an animal print runner rug can add that extra flair to a two-toned staircase without the need for anything else. Or, if you’re not into prints , you can achieve this by adding a bright coloured or textured rug instead. What’s most important is that the stairs are able to reflect your individual style and taste.

 

8. Hide details

If you'd rather your personal possessions are not displayed in an open-plan cupboard beneath the stairs, you can create a mysterious stairway with hidden storage instead. Not every single detail needs to be seen, sometimes this can even look better in certain homes, depending on the aesthetic. Here are some of the key advantages of hidden stair storage:

 

  • Space: Under stair storage allows you to utilise every inch of space in accordance with your lifestyle. From under stairs tv units to entire under stairs rooms, you can get creative with otherwise under-utilised space.
  • Declutter: The urge to declutter is usually one of the main reasons why people begin to consider the advantages of under stair storage. Depending on the space available, you could create a mini cloakroom or you could use the space to store personal belongings like books and films.

For more inspiration about this unique staircase trend, take a look at our article, ‘What Lives Under Your Stairs? 14 Ingenious Ideas For Transforming The Cupboard Under The Stairs’. 

 

9. Use stencils

If you’re looking to get really stuck into your wooden stair design, why not try using stencils and paint to achieve your desired look. Whilst this technique is not the easiest, you have complete control over every area of the design. Create perfect multi-patterned decor alongside your staircase to bring a modern, chic look to your home. 

 

10. Combine light colours

Create a dreamy, airy vibe by combining light colours (coastal and neutral) throughout your staircase. If you’re looking to design a staircase that feels bright, spacious and refreshing, you may want to consider choosing lighter colours. Or, if you want to brighten up a dark and dramatic staircase, try painting the upper walls and the staircase a bright white. Our top tip is to make sure that you always have colour contrast throughout your wooden stairs. 

 

11. Use stair stickers

Another unusual way to spruce up your wooden stairs is by updating your risers with stair stickers. Stickers can be a fantastic option for those with young children or for those who are looking to create more of a quirky vibe throughout their staircase. Choose from various designs online. In particular, Amazon and Etsy have lovely affordable designs. To apply the sticker to your risers, simply cut them to size and stick them down.

 

12. Use black & white

Create an ultra elegant look by painting your stairs black and white. A black and white palette in any room can make your space take on a whole new look without minimising other areas of the house. It’s a great way to add a modern touch to your home interior, complementing almost any colour palette. 

Take a look at our white primed spindles and black metal stair parts for more inspiration surrounding this monochrome aesthetic. 

 

13. Add a stair runner

This hint is for those who want to dabble in changing up their stairway without committing to a full repaint. Stair runners are becoming more and more popular in the interiors world. In particular, homeowners of Victorian houses enjoy playing around with colour schemes and borders. However, if you’re really looking for a challenge, why not try creating your own colourful stair runner effect. All you need is paint, brushed and masking tape. Here are some of the main benefits of adding a stair runner to your wooden staircase: 

 

  • Safety: Stair runners offer more traction and stability when using the stairs, which means less slips and accidents.
  • Noise: Adding carpet to your stairs will help to absorb noise, making your home a bit quieter. Typically, adding carpet will reduce noise by about 35%.
  • Protection: Installing a carpet stair runner provides a physical barrier between your stairs and your daily activities, protecting your floors from costly damage.
  • Stylish: Stairs are often overlooked in interior design, but stair runners can create an eye-popping focal point in any home!
  • Comfort: With a stair runner, you can give your home a warmer, more comfortable look and feel.

 

14. Add a gallery wall

No matter how small your staircase, you will always have room for a gallery wall. It’s such an easy way to add some colour into a space that doesn’t have much in the way of decor. Pick a colour scheme that suits your unique style and get creative with your decorations. For example, to create a rustic look, you could hang a mix of prints, posters, maps, postcards and frames. It’s completely up to you! 

For more inspiration about creating a gallery wall, take a look at our article, ‘Expert Tips For Creating A Gallery Wall Above Your Staircase.’

 

15. Install a glass bannister

Just like mirrors, reflective glass staircase railings can help make your hallway appear larger. If you still like the traditional wood look, try a glass bannister with oak on top or, for a contemporary hallway, go for chrome fittings. Light walls, pale wooden flooring and specific furniture also help to reinforce the idea of a larger space. 

To read more about creating a spacious staircase, take a look at our article, ‘10 Ways To Make Your Hallway And Staircase Appear Bigger Without Extending Your Property’. 

Transform your staircase with Jackson Woodturners 

At Jackson Woodturners, we know how important it is to create the staircase of your dreams. With our team of stair experts on hand, we can advise and help you plan and design your stairs to make this a reality. We encourage creativity and innovation when it comes to designing your staircase, which is why we offer such a range of different stair parts and materials. 

With trade prices available to all, we can help you build your staircase project efficiently and affordably. Our price promise guarantees that we’ll beat any like-for-like quote. 

Get in touch with us today for more information about your up-and-coming stair project.