Take this oft neglected space from forgotten to unforgettable with our tips for dressing up your staircase, one step at a time.

1. The big screen

Photo by Drew Hadley

A screen wall instead of a traditional railing opens up the staircase, creates a sense of height, and lightens the appearance of the staircase while ensuring safety. Possible materials for the screen are numerous and include mesh, wood slats, vertical steel cables and thick rope (similar to rope used to moor a boat). When choosing the style and materials, ensure they both complement your decor and make a statement. 

2. Budget friendly 

A simple coat of paint can transform the railing at a low cost. Or you can replace only the balusters, which come in various colours and materials. Options include contemporary stainless steel or classic wrought iron. You can even use metal plumbing pipes, but if you install the rods horizontally, be careful to space them so that they cannot be climbed over by children. 

3. Colour cue

A utilitarian staircase can be totally transformed with a coat of fresh, colourful paint applied to its entire surface, including the treads, risers, railing and spindles. A saturated grey or black adds elegance, while white or lighter tones brighten and lend a lovely Scandi or cottage vibe. Vibrant colours – like fuchsia pink, royal blue or fire-engine red – make a statement.

4. Sure footing 

Dress up worn wooden steps with a stylish runner, which adds warmth – literally and visually – and comfort. If you love the look of a carpet but are on a tight budget, why not cheat by painting a trompe l’oeil that mimics a striped stair runner? 

5. Rise up 

If your wood treads are in good condition but the stairway lacks personality, use floor paint on the risers to liven things up. Ombré gradients, pastel rainbow tones, a colour that contrasts the treads, or stencilled patterns are all possibilities. Some suggestions to get you started: black treads and white risers suit a farmhouse style; black risers and a black handrail can be elegant and modern or classic traditional, depending on the architecture; risers painted lemon yellow or vibrant orange give a modern, punchy look! 

6. Pattern play

Cover your risers with beautiful floral wallpaper or decals, or create graphic interest with classic black-and-white checks or a colourful chevron pattern. You’ll find tons of options for wallpaper and decals online, in specialty stores and at big-box retailers.

7. Space smart

If the space under the stairs is open, you can install shelves, custom built-ins or store-bought storage units – because who doesn’t need more storage space? If there is enough headroom, a bench or chair in this spot can be handy for sitting to put on shoes. To detract from a plain staircase, disguise it by placing a storage unit alongside it. No entryway closet space? Wall hooks in a fun colour at the bottom of a stairway make fantastic use of vertical space near the front door. 

8. On display

Photo by Living4Media (left) and Pottery Barn (right)

Don’t neglect the staircase; integrate it into the overall look of your home. Choose a light fixture that makes a statement, whether it be a stellar pendant or LED strips under the handrail. And don’t overlook the wall alongside the staircase, which, with a little TLC, can be turned into a focal point. Use wallpaper or a mural to make a statement, or create a gallery wall with paintings, family photos or framed posters. Mix in 3D objects like modern ceramics for added interest. If the space is dark, a display of wall-mounted mirrors of various shapes and sizes will amplify light and add dynamic movement. 

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