Expert Tips On Creating A Statement Staircase

Expert tips on creating a statement staircase

Expert tips on creating a statement staircase

Often called ‘feature staircases’, statement staircases were once synonymous with grand period houses and historic hotels. However, the statement staircase has experienced a renaissance in recent years. The rise of the statement staircase is largely due to users of popular social media sites such as Instagram and Pinterest being passionate about showcasing interior design creations such as an eye-catching staircase. Usually featuring one or more striking or unconventional aspect, the statement staircase delivers a stunning and eye-catching effect. The “Instagram-worthy” statement staircase has become an aspiration for many, particularly millennials, often strive for an image that creates an impact online.

The staircase is the largest piece of architecture in your home, so it’s imperative that a stylish staircase sets the tone for the rest of the house. Designing a statement staircase not only helps define an open space but can also create a dramatic entrance to a small home. A statement staircase is highly likely to leave an impression in a visitor’s mind.

Designing a statement staircase doesn’t have to involve completely replacing your staircase. You don’t need to spend a fortune to create a statement staircase, nor does it have to be a time-consuming task. There are many different approaches to creating a statement staircase, from simple DIY tips to adding a striking feature.

For some expert tips on creating a statement staircase, we spoke to interior designer Gilly Craft, founder of Koubou Interiors, and interior design expert Catherine Muir.

Here’s what they had to say:

1. A broadloom or stair runner can create a striking look

A broadloom or stair runner can add detail and add a classic, striking look to your staircase. If you don’t want lots of colour, a simple black and white design will create the desired look without being too overpowering.

Gilly Craft states, “Black and white schemes are very striking and very popular at the moment. A black and white striped carpet either as a broadloom or runner will be very striking”.

Stair runners can also be effective in making a staircase look wider and more eye-catching. Catherine Muir advises, “carpets can help convey a style, and help the staircase jump out. For example, an interesting carpet can bring a contemporary style, whereas a striped carpet can bring a traditional style. A runner style carpet can also give the illusion of a wider staircase.”

2. Replace or re-paint your spindles

The spindles on your staircase are one of the most important features. Although you may forget to give them attention, replacing with an eye-catching alternative or re-painting can create a striking effect. Gilly highlights the importance of looking after spindles:

“If you are lucky enough to have a wooden staircase, then show it. If you have a modern staircase, then paint the parts of the stair that will show.”

Re-painting your spindles to create a pleasing contrast effect against your newel post, base rail and handrail. If you have a desired theme- such as giving the staircase a more modern feel- painting the spindles can be a quick and easy way to achieve this. Catherine says:

“Spindles can often be the main decorative element to the staircase and can look dated over time. By painting these, you can bring your staircase up to date without a major change.”

Metal spindles with interesting patterns and designs can also add eye-catching detail to your staircase without being too overpowering.

An interesting spindle design can add detail to a staircase without being too overpowering

3. Insert a gallery wall or bold wallpaper

Using bold wallpaper allows you to make a strong statement without having to replace or change any stair parts. Gilly Craft says:

“Bold wallpapers or wallcovering work very well on a staircase. They add a focal point.”

Combining bold wallpaper with an under-stated staircase is also a clever way to make your staircase stand out without needing to invest a lot of extra money in the staircase itself.

Staircases are also a great place to add a statement piece or eye-catching artwork. Creating a gallery wall is an effective way to be show some flare and create a memorable impression. Catherine explains:

“The staircase is a place you can be more adventurous with art, as you won’t risk growing tired of seeing it as you sit and relax. You’ll be reminded of why you liked it every time you pass.”

4. Lighting can create the illusion of a wider staircase

Creating the illusion of light and openness can make a staircase seem larger, creating more of an impact. It can also help ensure the staircase is the first thing that visitors pay attention to when they walk into your home. Gilly says:

“Lighting is the way to create the illusions of a wider stairway. Either wall washers, or a statement piece hanging from the ceiling – or both!”

Catherine Muir suggests lighting is key to a staircase, not only from a safety point of view but for the style as well:

“You can add amazing chandeliers above and concealed lighting below. Think of how low-level lighting could alter during the day to create an impact in the evening. Consider the impact of a beautiful chandelier hanging above you as you go up the stairs.”

The use of mirrors can also create a spacious and modern feel. They reflect the room and give the illusion of doubling the space. Large mirrors with a light frame help draw the eye out. Catherine says:

“Mirrors are great in hallways as they can help to bounce light around from the lighting or windows. They also come in many sizes to fit your space to make the biggest impact. Don't be afraid to go big!”

5. Choose glass for a striking, ultramodern feel

If the rest of your house is designed in a traditional theme, a modern staircase can create an eye-catching contrast. The combination of wood and glass is particularly interesting, combining modern elements with traditional staircase features.

Glass can create an elegant, striking addition to the home. If you favour simplicity and minimalist designs over complicated patterns, a glass staircase can achieve an Instagram-worthy design. Following a minimalist theme can help accomplish a Scandanavian staircase design.

Gilly asserts: “For a Scandinavian staircase, think minimalist—lots of white walls and light wood for the treads and risers.”

When creating a minimalist staircase, focusing on the materials is critical. A combination of wood and glass creates a simple yet eye-catching and classy design. Catherine explains:

“With a minimalist staircase, materials are key as you can't add interest with detailing or decor. Think of solid timber and glass.”