Excuse the pun, but stairways are typically treated like the step-child of all spaces in the home when it comes to interior design. They are generally considered for their function and nothing more. However, you don’t see it that way. Instead, you desire to elevate their position beyond function to also better consider aesthetics while improving the literal and psychological flow of the property. We applaud this worthy intent because stairs serve as both passage and gateway to other key areas of a home.

If you’re searching for stairway interior design in Greater Vancouver BC, you’e come to the right place. Reach out today for a FREE phone consultation, or first read below for insight regarding key considerations for your soon-to-be enhanced stairway/s.

5 INTERIOR DESIGN UPGRADES TO CONSIDER TO ENHANCE THE FUNCTION AND FEEL OF THE STAIRWAY/S IN YOUR GREATER VANCOUVER HOME

Lighting Installations for Enhanced Aesthetics and Safety

Ask your interior designer about enhanced lighting for your stairway. Improved lighting will not only shine a proud spotlight on the other improvements (below) it will facilitate sure-footing as occupants and guests enjoy a better visual accounting of step-depth and can identify the presence of hazards and obstacles (wet spots, toys, etc.). LED lighting may be installed along/within the stairs themselves, through recessed lighting in the ceiling that focuses on the stairs, or even through a more dramatic installation of a skylight above the staircase.

Stair Replacement, Refinishing, Overlays, and Tread Coverings

Are the stair surfaces in your home a bland rug, wood, or some uninspired composite material that makes them an eyesore? Talk to an interior designer about replacing them with a more pleasing glass, tile, stone, steel, hardwood, or other contemporary material. Refinishing, overlays, and tread coverings (laminate, rubber, sisal, bullnose carpet, etc.) may be more practical and provide for better traction while enhancing visuals. Treads can also be upholstered. You may also consider installing a stairway runner with a pattern that indicates upward and downward movement.

Install a Show-Stopping Base

Add a large sculptural base to the staircase. It may be constructed from wood, marble, stone, steel, or other material that marries the existing design and decor of your home. A show-stopping staircase base will set a great first impression for guests upon entry into the home and it may consequently become a gathering place upon arrival and departure.

Install a Custom Handrail

Consider replacing the existing handrail system with something customized to your tastes. This is where you really get to have fun in the selection of materials, colors, constructs, and concepts. The right (for you) rails alter the entire look, feel, function, and flow of a home’s staircase.

Add Dramatic Accent Pieces Along the Way

Where space allows, add dramatic accent pieces and art installations adjacent to your staircase. You may not use every room of your house on a given day, but you certainly will use the stairs. Placement of a pleasing structure will make the brief passage even more pleasurable.

To be honest, everything above barely scratches the surface when it comes to stairway interior design. We simply wanted to wet your appetite with this article, and encourage you to reach out to schedule a consultation regarding the stairway of your Greater Vancouver BC residence. Take the first step today by calling Calvert Design Studio for a FREE 20-minute phone consultation.