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Entryway ideas with stairs


29 Staircase Ideas That Will Elevate Your Home's Design

By

Farima Ferguson

Farima Ferguson

Farima Ferguson began her career at HGTV where she worked with designers to write about home design. Her work has appeared in HGTV, Insider Reviews, Travel Channel, and more.

Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process

Updated on 11/14/22

The Spruce / Christopher Lee Foto

The staircase in your home—we know it serves as a functional piece, getting you from one floor to the other, but it can do a whole lot more for your home's design. It's oftentimes the first thing people see when they first walk into your home, so it should not only be functional but should also contribute to your home's overall design style.

Whether you're lucky enough to have a beautiful grand staircase in your home or not, you can easily dress up your staircase to elevate the design in your home. From a few simple touches to ideas on how to use the space underneath your staircase, we share our favorite ideas to help elevate your home's design.

22 Gorgeous Painted Stair Ideas

12 Best Staircase Decorating Ideas for a Styled Look

Stairways can be so much more than a functional path from one level of the home to another. Whether you’re redecorating or starting from scratch, there are many ways to give this area some style of its own. Read on to discover our favorite staircase decorating ideas that will turn the passageway into a stylish focal point.

Easy Staircase Decorating Ideas

Transitional staircase decorating ideas by Decorilla

A variety of different staircase decorating ideas include everything from color and texture to accessories and lighting. Simple staircase wall decor should be easy to put together, whether as a unified set or as a mix of styles.

Pro Tip: Knowing your style preference can help you decide which staircase decorating ideas are right for you.  Take our Free Interior Design Style Quiz to discover your unique decorating style today!

1. Lighting Staircase Decorating Ideas 

Simple staircase decorating ideas by Decorilla designer, Taize M.

Stylish and contemporary staircase decorating ideas include statement lighting design, whether that be chandeliers up above, wall scones, or lantern features on the stairs themselves. It’s also easy to see why – a chic fixture can update a space just by its look – not to mention adding extra light, shadow, and drama. However, keep in mind when adding decor to the stairs, there should still be plenty of room for foot traffic.

2. Art for a Stairway Wall 

Abstract art for stairway wall decor by Decorilla designer, Wanda P.

If you want to create a personal touch, the staircase is the perfect place to do so. It provides a space to continue the storytelling you started at the entrance hall. Along with adding personal touches through accessories, you can also elevate your design scheme with a unique piece of artwork. Keep the statement item at eye level to be visible for everyone approaching the stairs.

Stairway Wall Decor

Modern stairway wall decor by Decorilla designer, Kristina B.

The walls of a stairway provide the perfect blank canvas to display some of your favorite wall decor. On the other hand, you can create a stunning feature wall that’ll also be sure to steal the show.

3. Gallery Stairway Wall Decor

Adding a gallery wall to your staircase is a great way to add style and put together different elements of your design scheme at once. Depending on the rest of the interior design, your stairway wall decor can be modern, abstract, eclectic, or traditional. Alternatively, you can play and mix the styles, but keep at least one element, such as frame style, in common to all pieces.

4. Library Staircase Wall Decorating Ideas

This staircase decorating idea is excellent for everyone looking to add more storage and display space to their home. In other words, it will do both jobs at once without using up too much floor area. Add a couple of extended wall shelves along the staircase, or set a small library under it. You can even get crafty and think outside the box when it comes to what you store there – such as displaying vinyl records, books, or collectibles.

Decorating a Stair Landing

When you’re blessed with extra space at the top or bottom of your staircase there are plenty of ideas for decorating a stair landing. You can add additional seating, storage, or even let the outdoors in.

5. Biophilic Staircase Decorating Ideas

Decorating a staircase landing with a zen garden by Decorilla designer, Laura A.

Biophilic design is a shortcut to quickly add character and style to your home. You can arrange a miniature zen garden under the stairs, add a living wall, or include some potted plants up the stairs. Such ideas combine wonderfully with wooden threads and walls – but feel free to experiment.

6. Less is More 

Simple modern decorating for stair landing by Decorilla designer, Shasta P.

When decorating a stair landing it is important to keep in mind that the stairs need to serve their main purpose as a corridor for foot traffic. As a result, you don’t want to congest the space with unnecessary decor. A streamlined modern look is able to add style to the space while keeping clutter at bay. Sleek glass panels can serve as railing while keeping the space feeling open. Furthermore, an accent wall on the landing and a linear chandelier add just enough eye candy.

Decorate Stair Risers

Decorate stair risers with veined marble by Decorilla designer, Mladen C.

Staircase staircase risers – the vertical sections connecting one step to the next – provide an excellent opportunity to add character and charm to the whole space.  

7. Tile-clad Risers

Stair treads made of decorative tile may not be the safest solution due to the little traction they deliver. On the risers, however, you may employ almost anything to add a creative punch without risking slips or falls. Brightly colored glazed tiles can make a strong and durable statement. If you prefer to DIY, you can also consider wallpaper or vinyl decals.

8. Reclaimed Risers 

The simplest, and often most cost-effective methods to decorate your stair risers is using reclaimed material. The addition of raw wood or patinated metal brings character to an otherwise charmless part of the stairs. Use your creativity with this idea and see what reused materials bring a sense of style to your space. 

Entryway Staircase Ideas

Seating area as entryway staircase ideas by Decorilla designer, Sonia C.

The first impression guests will have of your home is formed in your entryway. This area can range in size and shape, but adequately scaled staircase decoration ideas can give it a whole new dimension. Build the look around features you want to highlight.

9. Cozy Entryway Staircase Decorating Ideas

Rustic traditional entryway staircase ideas by Decorilla designer, Lindsay B.

Create the ultimate welcoming staircase entryway with some cozy decor. Add a small console table as a catchall at the door and complement it with a nice armchair to comfortably change your shoes. In addition, use a runner or rug to anchor the furniture. Then, freshen up the space with some small potted plants. Finally, complete the look with a mirror and some art.

10. Grand Staircase Ideas 

Grand entryway staircase ideas by Decorilla design, Rachel H.

When blessed with a double staircase at the entrance of your home you’re able to create a design worthy of fairytales. In this case, it is important to coordinate all the elements of staircase decor for a cohesive style that highlights the grandeur of the space. Consider details such as an entryway table displaying fresh blooms and intricate staircase railings. In addition, add interest to the vertical height of the room with staggered staircase wall art and a classy chandelier.

Decorative Stair Railings

Decorative railing for a spiral staircase by Decorilla designer, Lauren A.

Many times decorative stair railings can also serve as a statement themselves. These works of art are best left with minimal decor so they can rightfully take the spotlight.

11. Draw the Eyes Up

Floor-to-ceiling decorative stair railings by Decorilla designer, Dina H.

A beautiful staircase can be a powerful visual point in a home, so keep that in mind when deciding on railings. Sleek, simple handrails are, of course, a great option. However, think also about extending the bars floor-to-ceiling, making it a prominent design feature.

12. Go Horizontal

Decorative horizontal stair railing by Decorilla designer, Casey H.

Naturally, it seems fitting to chose vertical stair railings, however add a contemporary flair to the space by opting for horizontal railings. This option creates a decorative style to a practical requirement of staircases. Metal rods or strips as well as steel cabling are all popular options for this setup.

Need help decorating your staircase?

Our team of talented designers can help design a functionally beautiful space. So, schedule a Free Interior Design Consultation to get started today!

Images: [1, 2, 3 4, 5,  6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]

design rules, 75 photo ideas

Entering the house, first of all, a person enters the corridor. The entrance hall is able to make the first impression of the entire home. Therefore, it is important to design it correctly, emphasizing the advantages and hiding the shortcomings. The design of the hall with a staircase has a number of nuances, considering which you can combine beauty and functionality.

The entrance hall is the first room we see when entering the house.

The first impression of the entire household depends on how this room is decorated. nine0003

Contents

Design of a hallway with stairs in a private house

Stairs can be easily turned into a highlight, a key decoration of the corridor if the room is properly decorated. More often for the hall they choose classics, modern or country. The first option is distinguished by the use of neutral tones, natural materials. The style is luxurious, so you have to invest large sums in design. It is important to observe moderation and not overdo it, otherwise everything will look cheap. nine0003

Staircase in the interior of a country lady can become a real decoration.

Art Nouveau is outrageous and modern. Materials are predominantly plastic, glass and metal surfaces. Staircase lighting is a great addition.

Staircase visually creates a perspective, optically expanding the space.

Country fully reflects the rustic style. It creates a rural cosiness and is distinguished by the use of natural colors and natural wood. nine0003

Usually such wealth as a spacious hall in a private house does not go to everyone.

See alsoModern finishes, fashion trends for walls in the hallway with photo

Requirements for the construction of stairs in the house

The interior of the hall with a staircase will look harmonious, subject to certain recommendations. After all, the design is central in the room and certain requirements are imposed on it.

The drafting of the stairs to the 2nd floor must be approached with all responsibility. nine0003

  1. Good lighting in the room. Otherwise, there is a chance of injury in the dark. It is preferable to place a spot light, sconce, or several full-fledged powerful chandeliers.
  2. For visual zoning of the territory near the stairs, use an accent item. A large plant, a beautiful ottoman, a compact table will do;
  3. Cover the steps with a rug to visually reduce the size of the structure;
  4. March dimensions must be identical along the entire length. It is recommended to choose an odd number of steps. nine0012
  5. The angle of elevation should vary from 25 to 45 degrees and the railing should be about 90 cm high.
  6. To increase the functionality of the design of the hall with a staircase, use the available space below it.

A wardrobe or storage system for various items will fit in well.

See also What kind of wallpaper to choose in the hallway if you have bright doors?

Choosing a construction style

There are several preferred styles that fit the given conditions. They are reflected in the table. nine0003

Most often, the interior of a hallway with a staircase is found in private houses, but there are exceptions, such as two-level apartments.

Style Description
Classic Only valuable tree species are used in the manufacture. Can be made from stone like marble or granite. The palette is restrained, the forms are distinguished by elegance. Add decorative elements in the form of carvings and swirls.
Hi-tech Use metal with a chrome finish. For an ornament, add glass or stone. Metal structures have many advantages, including long life and reliability. The ladder is strong and able to withstand heavy loads.
Minimalism Maximum integration of glass surfaces into the product. It can be used as a base. The foundation of the product is made of thickened glass. It has a high degree of strength. nine0088

Can be made from concrete. The design is not remarkable, it has good strength. You can add other materials as an addition to make the product zest.

In addition to its direct purpose - the connection of two tiers - this design also serves as a decoration of the entrance part of the interior (corridor, hall).

Wood is a classic material. Especially if you plan to create a country style. If it is not possible to use expensive species, pay attention to larch, cherry or maple. nine0003

Being the first room that guests see, the design of the entrance hall with stairs requires careful planning.

See also What should be the modern design of the hallway

The following construction types are available.

  1. Marching. The steps are made in the form of a continuous row. There are several marches. This is influenced by the dimensions of the house and the height of the tiers.

    Sometimes risers are added to make the space look lighter. nine0003

  2. Screw. There are no marches. The staircase is a flight that has the shape of a spiral. Thanks to its impressive appearance, the product fits well into any design.

    This type allows you to visually raise the ceiling.

See also Small hallway design problems: how to solve?

Wardrobes under the stairs in the hallway

The ladder has impressive dimensions and takes up a lot of space. Therefore, it is important to use every available square meter as much as possible. Any area should be turned into a useful one. One option is to organize closets. nine0003

This will allow you to conveniently place bed linen, inventory and other things.

You can organize a small library. A smart solution would be to convert the closet into a place to store shoes and clothes. Combine practicality with beauty.

The cabinet will become not only a convenient storage system, but also a successful interior addition.

See also Advantages and design of small dressing rooms

Designing stairs in the hall

The staircase in the hall is endowed with special significance. It allows you to visually increase the height of the ceilings, and adds space and originality to the room. For a small corridor, the screw type will be ideal. You can place a product, complemented by elements in the form of metal parts, which will allow you not to burden the design. nine0003

If the entrance hall is the face of the house, then the staircase is the key figure that determines the style of the interior as a whole.

The structure is often equipped with glass and plastic. If the dimensions of the hallway allow, it is recommended to choose a massive staircase made of natural material. It will not eat up space, harmoniously fitting into the overall interior.

To make the design of the hallway in the house as functional as possible, experts recommend not to miss the chance to use the space under the stairs. nine0003

See alsoFeatures and complexity of the design of a small corridor

Provence is a French style based on the introduction of light colors. External simplicity does not prevent the interior from taking into account and introducing many interesting details into the room. If you decide to use a staircase in a similar style, it is recommended to continue to spread French motifs to the rest of the territory.

Stairs in Provence style win hearts with their singularity, conciseness, elegance, beauty and of course charm. nine0003

White becomes the main tone. You can add it with lavender, olive, peach. When finishing, it is important to use only natural materials. Therefore, the staircase structure is necessarily made of light-colored wood.

You can choose a model with a touch of antiquity.

The same rules apply to flooring. Laminate or linoleum in a modern style will not work. Wooden furniture covered with white paint. The presence of scratches and cracks will add color. nine0003

These stairs have sophisticated and light colors.

See also Design of an entrance hall in an apartment in a panel house: three types of repairs

To create country music, wood and textiles should be used as much as possible. Be sure to place a carpet on the floor, or a path, on the walls of the picture, you can install an ottoman with pillows. There should be an ornament on surfaces and decorative elements.

Country-style wooden stairs can be very simple, they can be chic and elegant, and will highlight the attractiveness of your interior. nine0003

No bright accents. A large oak staircase will not "fit" into the overall interior. For country, breeds like birch or pine are suitable. It is not luxurious, but embodies rustic comfort.

A well-designed country-style staircase allows you to modify the interior decoration of the room in the best way.

See also Hallway design in Khrushchev: choice of finishes and visual techniques for expanding space

Classic entrance hall with stairs

Classic is one of the sought-after and popular styles in the design of hallways. Materials are only natural, of noble origin. Maximum use of expensive wood, granite and marble. The forms of objects should be restrained. Choose a calm palette for decoration.

Stairs in a classic style are primarily the use of natural expensive materials and the presence of decorative elements that correspond to one or another historical style. nine0003

Stairs may have decorations in the form of carvings, curls. If you introduce bright details or oversaturate the space with luxury, everything will look cheap and tasteless. Therefore, it is important to observe the measure and act carefully.

The classic style of the staircase is sophisticated and complex, and must meet the requirements of a classic interior.

The following elements can be used for a corridor with stairs:

  1. Solid wood armchairs;
  2. Carpets in discreet, restrained shades; nine0012
  3. Stone or wood table;
  4. Lamps placed on tables;
  5. Volumetric models of curtains.

When choosing a ladder, safety and comfort during use should come first.

Excellent classics can be created in a spacious room, which in size allows you to place all the necessary details.

The staircase, executed in a truly classic (exemplary) style, does not lose its accuracy over time. nine0003

See alsoInteresting corridor design 4 sq. m.

50 entrance hall designs with stairs:

photo of the interior of the hall with a staircase to the second floor, ideas for finishing, choosing the style of a corridor with a staircase to the 2nd floor

What could be better for the classics than a wide chic staircase with railings and balusters in the middle of the reception hall? It is always impressive and "leads" the imagination into the world of luxury and prosperity. nine0003

Interior with a staircase in a private house

The design of a spacious hall suggests an interior with a wide staircase, voluminous flights with platforms. All hallway attributes are possible here: wardrobes, chests of drawers, dressing rooms, recreation areas with chairs and tables, smoking rooms and even a library. The place under the stairs is perfect for an office, a dressing room, a closet for household needs, a library.

A narrow corridor will prompt the design to install a "modest" staircase to the second floor along one of the walls. They, in turn, are decorated with paintings, elegant sources of artificial light (all kinds of lamps), mirrors to visually increase the spatial volume. Overall furniture with cabinets here will clearly be out of place. nine0241

Design: Nikita Morozov

Hall

This is the part of the house where new guests make their first acquaintance with the interior of the building. In front of them is a graceful staircase and the path to the second floor! Therefore, the best building and finishing materials are selected for this element of the interior: wood, glass, stone.

Corridor

This is an interchange, if not all, then many roads through a country house. It logically "rests" against the stairs to the second floor. In turn, this building serves as another decoration of the house, contributes to unhindered movement around the house, creating convenience and comfort for everyone living in a country house. The design of the stairs in the hallway does not provide for furniture, but is very attentive to finishing, decoration and decoration. nine0241

Design: Natalia Mitrakova

Entrance hall

This is a place just outside the front door where you can take off your outerwear and put it on a hanger, take off your shoes and change into slippers. Hallways are typical for dachas and small cottages. They make it possible, with the help of an unpretentious staircase, to quickly climb to the second floor, to the traditional recreation and peace area.

The design of an entrance hall in a private house with a staircase is based on building requirements for structures for lifting the second floor. nine0003

On the photo: Art Nouveau style

Design: Elena Solovieva

On the photo: staircase with flights to the second floor from the hall.

Design: Zhenya Zhdanova

In the photo: the design of the hall with a staircase

Hall decoration options

The design of the hall with a staircase seeks to unite all the nearest semantic zones into a single logically arranged space.

Hallway style with stairs

Most often in the hallway with stairs, designers choose classic and neutral style, country, provence and modern. Much depends on the preferences of the residents of a private house and its dimensions.

Classic

Road performance, but charming and luxurious. There are natural wood in the furniture and decoration, marble, gilding, columns, stucco molding, balusters, artistic carvings. The color scheme is neutral with possible bright accents used for zoning the space. The staircase with flights is made of natural wood and marble. nine0241

Modern

Modern is modern and somewhat eclectic. He absorbed the details of minimalism, art deco, urbanism, hi-tech, not forgetting the elements of unforgettable classics. In the decoration of the stairs and the interior of the hallway, glass, metal, stained-glass windows, less often plastic are used. It is possible to use avant-garde colors in the design of the room. The Art Nouveau staircase looks impressive with neon lights on the marches.

Country

Focuses on textiles and natural materials in the finishing and execution of furniture, including natural stone. The staircase to the second floor is made of wood with a natural texture and stone. The place of classic oak, mahogany, cedar was taken by budgetary pine, fir, alder, walnut. The room is richly decorated with living plants. nine0241

Hi-tech

Selects stairs to the second floor from special durable glass (acrylic, tempered, laminated), stone, metal, chrome and nickel-plated decorative elements. They are strong and durable. The interior is also selected with metallic notes. The contrast of white and black looks spectacular.

Neutral style


Gives the design a whirlwind: any stair shape is appropriate; materials in construction, decoration, decoration; color solutions. This is due to the fact that this architectural attribute is not given the main place, unlike other styles. The main task assigned to the staircase is “not to shine”: not to stand out and “not to arrange” dissonance. The details of the structure should be in harmony with the details of the interior of the room, color, texture. nine0003

Design features

Rotary marching and spiral staircases are optimal for small spaces. The second option can be installed anywhere, it requires little space, it is easy to build. After all, the rise is carried out in a circle. Rotary mid-flight structures are also structurally simple, but more comfortable for climbing to the second floor. In summer cottages, there is still an easier way to go upstairs - a ladder. This is neither safe nor practical. However, it provides the hallway with more free space. nine0003

To choose a staircase design, you need to decide which result would be preferable:

Types of structures:

Staircase cabinet

Optimum use of the space occupied by flights of stairs has always been of great interest to the customers of the lifting structure. Designers, in turn, offer many options for arranging the room under the stairs. Undoubtedly, it all depends on the size, but even medium designs "give" the possibility of arranging a closet under the stairs. nine0003

It can be open or closed, it all depends on the goal: the location of the niche next to the wall, away from the eyes will help to abandon the doors.

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