How to decorate staircase walls
10 ways to dress stair walls beautifully |
(Image credit: Future)
A large expanse of space, staircase walls deserve some of your decorative attention, and that’s where these staircase wall ideas come in.
Employing color, hanging wallpaper, or adding paneling can transform plain walls, while artwork, wall sculpture, or other wall-hung displays can equally give this part of your home personality, and make the staircase far more than simply a way up and down.
Here, we’ve put together staircase walls ideas along with expert input to make your hallway ideas beautiful and individual.
Staircase wall ideas
Make the most of the large blank canvas above and below the staircase with staircase wall ideas for homes both modern and traditional in their style. From staircase ideas that include structural elements, such as paneling, to simple tricks like hanging artwork, these are our favorites.
1. Create a vignette
(Image credit: In Detail Interiors Photograph: Greg Riegler)
Whether you're looking for landing ideas or a way to draw attention to the wall at the bottom of the stairs, there's always an area that can become a focal point with clever styling.
‘In this particular project, we were bringing a more classic, but sort of stodgy, interior space up to date and refreshing the entry area helped set a better tone for the house all around,’ explains Liz Lapan, showroom manager at In Detail Interiors .
‘After a fresh coat of paint we wanted to keep the feeling clean but offer a comfortable little vignette that featured artwork on the walls (stairwell areas are always a great space for more of a salon-style hang with artwork which means you can use a litany of different styles and sizes of art) and added a foyer table paired with some stools.
‘When doing this at home think about your sightlines, colors, a mix of frame styles – and don’t be afraid to lay things out on the floor first and use a friend to help hold things up to see how they look and feel before committing to their placement on the wall.’
2. Make a display
(Image credit: Jon Day/Future plc)
Wall decor ideas are a great way to create a point of interest and you can easily curate a display on a staircase wall with sculptural objects.
These round pieces create a fluid shape but are sufficiently close to one another to make an impact as a group.
These are hung on a backdrop of wallpaper but their shape and texture ensures they’re not lost against the bold pattern. Similar colors and curvaceous lines make the pairing of display and wallpaper cohesive.
3. Make staircase walls surprising
(Image credit: JL Design)
Unconventional choices can make impactful staircase wall ideas. ‘For an outside-of-the-box idea and application, I added shoes on the walls and ceilings, winding up four flights of stairs in this contemporary home,’ says Jessica Davis, principal designer of JL Design .
‘By following the steps of the shoes you are led to a rooftop deck for lounging. This unexpected installation creates surprise and delight to those who enter and introduces fun pops of color in the process.’
(Image credit: M Lavender Interiors Photograph: Chris Bradley Photography)
The right staircase wall ideas can make it a destination rather than merely a circulation area – and hallway wallpaper ideas are an obvious option.
‘The stairway in this photo is located in the main entrance to the home,’ says Mark Lavender, principal designer of M. Lavender Interiors .
‘We were looking for that strong statement as you entered the home and found it with the Shanghai wallpaper from Scalamandré. We decided to go for it and use it on all walls as well as the matching fabric on the Roman shade.’
5. Use paneling for staircase walls
(Image credit: Dodson Interiors Photograph: Nathan Schroder)
Paneling ideas are a classic choice for staircase walls and have both aesthetic and practical benefits.
‘Paneling adds depth to this entryway, and dresses up the space,’ says Julie Dodson of Dodson Interiors . ‘On stairs, paneling is nice because it’s wipeable and easy to clean.
‘This particular home was gutted and restored, and we wanted to create some depth and texture on the wall. You can do this with wallpaper, but that wasn’t the homeowners’ style. They are a little more traditional-meets-transitional, so we chose a more modern paneling with even squares.
’
6. Multiply the view
(Image credit: Roger Oates)
Consider hanging a mirror in addition to artwork on a staircase wall. Decorating with mirrors can provide a pleasing alternative view of the detail of the staircase and your choice of stair runner or carpet as well as the artwork hung there.
The dimensions of a staircase wall offer the opportunity to scale up a mirror hung there as well as pictures for a look that’s clean lined and unfussy.
7. Be bold with artwork
(Image credit: M Lavender Interiors Photograph: Janet Mesic Mackie)
Gallery wall ideas are a favorite decor choice for staircase walls, and allows pieces to be enjoyed to the maximum as they’re located in a much-used part of the home.
‘Our client had a very eclectic and robust art collection including these famous prints,’ says Mark Lavender. ‘We chose the basic black and white plaid pattern to serve as a canvas for the more bold art pieces.’
8. Opt for a textural staircase wall
(Image credit: Missy Stewart Design Photograph: Gracie Henley)
For subtle but unmistakeable decorative detail consider a textural finish for the staircase wall.
‘This is a floating staircase with a stacked stone wall for its backdrop,’ says Missy Stewart, principal designer at Missy Stewart Designs .
‘The light-up tree is a beautiful welcoming beacon in this entry. We added a replica of a city grate to complete the look.’
9. Strike a balance with architectural features
(Image credit: Dodson Interiors Photograph: Jack Thompson)
When a staircase is a stand-out feature of a home, it pays to exercise restraint when considering staircase wall ideas.
‘Houston-based Robert Dame did the architecture for this home,’ says Julie Dodson. ‘The wood beams and the asymmetrical ceiling created a moody backdrop for the staircase. Sometimes you have to let the architecture speak for itself when it comes to decorating stairs. Here, it was more about textures than anything else.
‘The artwork didn’t need to be big or overwhelm the space; it’s proportional to the small scale of the staircase. A larger work would have taken away from the architecture and that moodiness.
’
10. Play with tradition
(Image credit: M Lavender Interiors Photograph: Chris Bradley Photography)
Hanging a classically patterned wallpaper can strike a traditional note for the entrance to a home as well as adding interest to the staircase. However, it can be worth teaming hallway wallpaper ideas with more contemporary decor.
‘We had selected this very traditional damask wallcovering for a stair hall in our client’s home,’ says Mark Lavender.
As for the choice of stair runner: ‘We liked the idea of bringing in a more irregular modern pattern to run against the strictly traditional wallcovering,’ he explains. ‘We love the tension these two concepts create with each other.’
How can I make my stairwell more interesting?
To make a stairwell more interesting, treat it as you would the rest of your home, considering paint or wallpaper to change the look of the walls. Adding paneling, meanwhile, makes for a sophisticated finish but it’s also protective, sparing the walls bumps and scuffs in a busy family home.
Consider hanging pictures, whether that’s a themed gallery, or one linked by the color of the picture frames. Objects can create an alternative display on the walls, and since staircase walls can be sizeable, there’s an opportunity to show off larger pieces from wallhangings to more quirky found pieces.
How do you decorate a small staircase?
A small staircase can easily pack a decorative punch despite its proportions. It’s important not to make passage up and down the stairs difficult, so for walls use paint or wallpaper rather than hanging pictures or other pieces if these could get knocked during everyday comings and goings.
Use stair paint ideas to dress up plain treads or consider staircase carpet ideas for color, pattern, and a more forgiving surface underfoot.
Think about whether to upgrade balusters or change a handrail to a more interesting and tactile material – new staircase railing ideas can have a massive impact.
Think imaginative staircase lighting ideas, too: hang beautiful pendant lighting, too, rather than sticking with plain ceiling-recessed lights.
Sarah is a freelance journalist and editor. Previously executive editor of Ideal Home, she’s specialized in interiors, property and gardens for over 20 years, and covers interior design, house design, gardens, and cleaning and organizing a home for H&G. She’s written for websites, including Houzz, Channel 4’s flagship website, 4Homes, and Future’s T3; national newspapers, including The Guardian; and magazines including Future’s Country Homes & Interiors, Homebuilding & Renovating, Period Living, and Style at Home, as well as House Beautiful, Good Homes, Grand Designs, Homes & Antiques, LandLove and The English Home among others. It’s no big surprise that she likes to put what she writes about into practice, and is a serial house renovator.
55 Best Staircase Ideas - Top Ways to Decorate a Stairway
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Your stairs will be a step above the rest.
By Erin Cavoto
Annie Schlechter
So, you've decided to renovate your home. Great! You probably have plenty of thoughts from kitchen décor ideas to bedroom decorating ideas, but there's a smaller space you're probably overlooking within all your design plans: the staircase. For many houses, the staircase is one of the first things you see when you enter your home, so you want to make sure it's beautiful to look at. These staircase ideas will fill you with inspiration, from inspiration for painted floors to expert tricks for hanging pictures. No matter what your style is, there's a plan on this list that's perfect for your preferences and your budget.
For instance, while there are plenty of farmhouse decor ideas, you can certainly find tons of modern inspiration here as well.
One of the greatest parts about stair decorations is how a few simple additions can go a long way. Just adding a few paintings or other adornments can completely transform your staircase. Of course, you could go big and completely change the wallpaper (try removable wallpaper for a less permanent fix) or paint color for a bigger difference that will make a major impact. It's all up to you how you decide to implement these creative staircase ideas.
KIM CORNELISON
1 of 56
Dark Paint
Don't be afraid to make a bold statement with your staircase, like this one that's painted an inky gray. Offset the dark with light paint on the walls and warm details with picture frames and lighting fixtures.
SHOP PICTURE FRAMES
DAVID TSAY
2 of 56
Under the Stairs Pantry
If you're unsure of what to do with a little nook under your stairs, transform it into an adorable and versatile pantry, complete with a hidden door or barn door.
SHOP SHELVES
Annie Schlechter
3 of 56
Decorative Vase
A large vase or accent piece can find a home in the corner of an L-shaped staircase for an easy decor idea.
SHOP VASES
Helen Norman
4 of 56
Old Shutters
Use recycled shutters for a creative wall decoration over your staircase, like these distressed wood shutters that give a rustic touch.
SHOP MOUNTING NAILS
Rachel Whiting
5 of 56
Print Party
Don't hesitate to mix and match different textures and prints throughout your home, like Mimi Pickard (the owner of this English countryside abode) did. The entry flows seamlessly into a living area thanks to the sisal rugs and walls covered in damask by Peggy Angus for Blithfield.
LAUREN MILLER
6 of 56
Permanent Ladder
When stairs won't do, opt for a sturdy, permanent ladder like this one with an iron railing to make climbing up and down easier.
SHOP ANTI-SLIP TAPE
BRIAN WOODCOCK
7 of 56
Pawfect Portraits
If your furry friend is more like family, consider decorating an area in honor of your pooch. A wall of dog silhouettes and portraits add collected charm to this space.
Emily Followill
8 of 56
Work From Home
Sarah and Russell Bennett maximized every inch of their Monroe, Georgia, farmhouse. The couple transformed the traditionally overlooked space beneath the stairwell into a home office.
Sarah Joy Blog
9 of 56
Set up a Scene
Find a few additions that complement each other seamlessly. Along with the rustic wreath and chair, we especially love the shelf displaying miniature succulents.
See more at Sarah Joy Blog.
SHOP SUCCULENTS
Lark and Linen
10 of 56
Wild With Wallpaper
Turn up a simple staircase's "wow" factor by adorning the walls with a pretty patterned paper.
See more at Lark and Linen.
Nicole Franzen
11 of 56
Perfectly Polished
This Ventura, California, residence features "sleek architecture with warm materials" throughout the stunning space. The wood stairs—complete with a thin railing and a glass barrier—are a focal point.
See more at Jette Creative.
Douglas Friedman
12 of 56
Plenty of Paintings
Does your artwork hang out in storage because there's no room to display it in your home? Take a tip from designer Ken Fulk, who hung oil pantings all over the place—including above and underneath his staircase.
David A. Land
13 of 56
Remove and Reveal
Don't worry if you don't like what you see—there might be something even better underneath! The owner of this once-foreclosed Wisconsin farmhouse stripped away old carpeting to reveal yellow and green paint.
ANNIE SCHLECHTER
14 of 56
Deliberately Simple
Paul Caddell, the owner of this modest New York cottage, added just a single handrail on the side of his stairwell for a simplistic look. He also installed vertical beadboard to give the impression of taller ceilings.
Brian Woodcock
15 of 56
Try Ladder Style
Two Tennessee brothers replaced a dilapidated and enclosed staircase and installed this ladder-style solution that matches the rest of the home.
Troa Giovan
16 of 56
Go Wild
More is more with this Hampton's saltbox home. The homeowners added a piano, a light fixture, and a boar bust—among other items—at the bottom of their stairwell.
Audrey Hall
17 of 56
Rugged and Rustic
This quaint California barn is simple yet stunning with matching wood throughout the entire space. House flipper Laura Parker decided to add some warmth to the area by simply placing an oversized rug at the landing.
ANNIE SCHLECHTER
18 of 56
Nothing but Neutrals
Whites, browns, and similar hues will make your entire home look clean—even when it's not! This New York guesthouse takes inspiration from Scandinavian design for a refined look.
Helen Norman
19 of 56
Light Up Your Entryway
The entryway in this restored farmhouse from the 1800s was originally two tones of green and had built-in shelving that made the space feel small. Now a rug and various coat hangers contrast with the bright white to welcome guest in and make them feel right at home.
John Ellis
20 of 56
Vintage Venture
Antique portraits line the stairwell in this California farmhouse and create a unique look. The quirky lineup is also great conversation starter.
Tria Giovan
21 of 56
Pattern All Over
The tranquil shade of the wallpaper and stair runner creates a coastal vibe that is equal parts fun and elegant. Try this and other fun summery ideas for your lake house decor.
David A. Land
22 of 56
Stair Runner
Lay down a stair runner to add pattern and interest to your steps. The well-worn stair runner at this 18th-century farmhouse is a fond reminder of guests who have come and gone.
Gridley and Graves
23 of 56
Beach Vibes
If you didn't know you were near the ocean before entering this house, the sea-foam green staircase might be a huge clue. Built in 1855, this Maine home embraces its history and geography with pastel colors and vintage signs, and the picnic baskets add to the summery theme.
Stephen Kent Johnson
24 of 56
Timeless Black and White
Before the renovation of this 1850s New York home, the stairs were covered in oriental carpet, and the walls were a bright salmon pink. Now, crisp white walls complement the dark steps, and a simple Moravian star lights up the entry.
David Hillegas
25 of 56
Wall of Art
Art lines this entire staircase wall, adding pops of color to the white and mushroom-colored space.
Max Kim-Bee
26 of 56
Bold Wallpaper
As firm believers that there's no such thing as a "pass-through space," the owners of this Catskills home planted floral wallpaper up the stairwell, which continues into the bedroom.
27 of 56
Faux Planked Walls
To create the look of planked walls without the hassle or expense, the homeowner of this rural Connecticut farmhouse drew horizontal lines with pencil in the stairwell.
Paul Costello
28 of 56
Hardy Materials
When it came to building materials, country superstar Ronnie Dunn opted for hardy, can-take-a-beating options in keeping with the barn aesthetic in his Tennessee barn home.
Among those selections: 12-inch-wide white oak plank floors that provide a striking contrast below the staircase.
Bjorn Wallander
29 of 56
Nautical Vibe
A Garnet Hill rug and porthole-shaped mirror reinforce the nautical vibe of this family-friendly New York home's staircase, painted in Benjamin Moore's Big Country Blue. The trunk was a flea-market bargain.
Annie Schlechter
30 of 56
Black and Polished
The slick painted banister, along with a few other black touches, grounds the space and prevents the red, white, and blue palette from feeling kitschy in thisTexas home.
These Finished Basement Ideas Are So Creative
Erin Cavoto Erin Cavoto is the Editorial Assistant at ThePioneerWoman.com, covering food, holidays, home decor, and more.
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