Stairs are more than just a utilitarian fixture of the home. Why not make a major statement in the entryway with one of the following staircase ideas, which are sure to capture guests’ attention as soon as they set foot inside of your space? There are so many creative routes to take when it comes to staircase design. “Staircases are a beautiful way to work in corresponding materials found elsewhere in the home or to add pattern and texture through runners,” says AD PRO Directory member Benjamin Johnston of Benjamin Johnston Design.
Below you’ll find 31 top-notch staircase design ideas from experts all across the country that will leave you feeling majorly inspired, whether you desire a modern staircase, crave a minimalist look, are working with a small space, and so much more. (Just don’t make these staircase renovation mistakes.)
What are the stairway trends for 2024?
Designers agree that architecturally interesting staircase shapes are having a moment as of late. “Whether it’s a floating staircase made of steel and wood with a glass railing or a curved organic plaster staircase, stairs are now becoming more than just a functional element—they are making an artistic statement,” says Cheri Etchelecu Martin, the founder of Dallas’s Cheri Etchelecu Interior Design.
Bryan Yates, the Dallas–based founder of Yates Desygn, echoes similar sentiments. “Designers are thinking of staircases as a way to create a unique element within a home, whether it be painting the risers or implementing a custom rug,” he says. “Think outside the box when it comes to not only stairs, but all small spaces in general.”
What is the cheapest way to decorate stairs?
Professional interior designers have several suggestions for how to best give stairs a makeover without breaking the bank. Consider laying down a carpet runner or painting an element of the staircase, such as a riser or railing, Shannon Callahan, director of design at Marc-Michaels Interior Design, Inc. suggests. Additionally, consider hanging a gallery wall of favorite art prints on the stairwell. “If your stairs are bland or need something to dress it up, then creating a cool wall of art can instantly make stairs seem like a curated area,” Linda Hayslett of LH.Designs adds.
How much should it cost to build a staircase?
Constructing a staircase from scratch can be an investment. “Depending on what you’re looking to do with your stairs they can be a lot of work to construct, in labor and cost,” Hayslett explains. “Even a simple set of stairs can cost a pretty penny.” She recommends evaluating various staircase ideas and determining the stair design that appeals to you before meeting with a contractor, as structure will greatly affect cost.
What materials are best to use for a staircase?
Designers agree that the materials one selects for a staircase design will vary depending on a client’s needs and preferences. Yates is personally a proponent of a wood tread with a custom runner. Viki Chupik, the founder of Chupik Design, is partial to hardwood treads, stained wood or painted paneling, and wool carpet runners.
How can I make a staircase look expensive?
There’s a range of decorating ideas that will add a luxurious touch to your staircase. “I recommend looking to your personal style to achieve a visually high-end and unique space,” Martin says, citing stair runners and wall treatments as possible additions.
The right finishes will also make all of the difference. “For my projects, I gravitate towards plaster walls or wood paneling details, marble or stone treads and risers, wool woven stair runners in a sophisticated stripe or chic pattern, handcrafted bronze railing with unique details, and upholstered benches at the landing,” Chupik says.
