28 Stylish Staircase Ideas That Make the Most of Every Step

To achieve a clean, natural aesthetic, interior designer Emily Henderson sticks to white walls, then layers in reclaimed wood treads and a vertical black railing.

Craft a cozy corner beneath the stairs, filling it with plush throw pillows and blankets. Designed by Ashley Gilbreath, this light-filled nook is the perfect place to rest or read.

If you don’t want to upgrade your stairs, elevate the entry with a fresh wallpaper pattern — like this red and white stripe design.

Create intrigue with an ornamental wrought iron railing, like interior designer Amy Sklar does here with a unique swirled design. For a perfect pairing, she decorates with an iron lantern-style pendant in the foyer.

If you have the space, your staircase landing is the perfect place for an adorable window seat. Go for a wooden settee, tufted bench or set of sleek stools to complete the space.

This sleek interior, designed by BHDM Design, features a glossy black spiral staircase that serves as the focal point of the room. Keep in mind: if you’re in a smaller home or apartment, spiral staircases take up less space.

Probably the most obvious way to upgrade your stairwell is with a show-stopping chandelier. Take a note from interior designer Reena Sotropa and find a fixture that doubles as art.

Make use of an awkward space by building a quiet reading nook under your curved staircase. Interior designer Bria Hammel adds built-book shelves and a bench, then sprinkles in a mix of modern and antique decor.

Not only does this timber staircase screen by Teass | Warren Architects create a sense of privacy and separation, it also serves as a safety precaution. Now, it’s impossible to fall to the right of this sleek staircase.

Layer in vintage pieces, whether that’s in the form of artwork, furniture or tabletop decor. One example: this historic desk at the foot of the stairs paired with a set of heirloom table lamps.

With a triangle-shaped landing, this winder staircase is brought to live with a classic stripe runner rug. Designer Amy Sklar keeps the banister, railing and stair risers white to create balance.

Here, designer Mary Patton plays with the contrast of rich wood stair treads and a wrought iron railing against bright, white stair risers.

Adorned with handmade terracotta tiles from Tabarka Studio, this staircase exudes a fun, playful energy. Designer Michelle Lisac mixes three graphic tile designs and creates a pattern as you move up each riser.

Make any staircase feel grand with striking artwork, especially a black-and-white display that covers the majority of the wall. Recreate this look from designer Maggie Griffin and consider a triptych.

Whether it’s with built-ins or narrow cabinets, storage at the bottom of the stairs is a great way to maximize space. Don’t forget the details though. Sleek brass door hardware can add a touch of luxury to the setup.

Find more inspiration from Reena Sotropa »

With a little inspiration and elbow grease, you can install your own patterned runner. According to this blogger, it’s best to go with an indoor/outdoor rug made out of polypropylene or a wool rug — and definitely avoid cotton.

Get the tutorial at Cherished Bliss »