Making the Most of your Staircase

Living Magazines Wooden Staircase

Staircases are an often-overlooked feature in many homes and an area where space can easily go to waste. When you consider that in many properties, the staircase is front and centre when you enter the home, it’s a shame not to utilise this area to its full advantage and highlight its best features.

If you want to spruce up the stairwell in your house and need inspiration, here are some simple ideas that will help you make the most of your staircase.

Functional Storage Solutions

Many of us struggle for storage space in our homes and hallways are no exception. Utilising the space beneath your staircase can be an ideal solution. Whether it’s somewhere to store the vacuum cleaner and ironing board or a handy place for winter coats, scarves, and wellington boots, understairs storage keeps life’s essentials tucked away but still easily to hand.

To maximise the storage potential beneath your staircase, opt for custom-built under stairs storage for a unique and practical solution. Built-in cabinets, drawers, or shelves not only provide much-needed storage but also give your stairwell a sleek, stylish look.

Aesthetically Pleasing Design Elements

When it comes to interior design, the staircase is at risk of becoming a forgotten area between rooms, but there’s no reason why your stairwell shouldn’t be an extension of your home’s overall style.

Try to incorporate design elements into your staircase that complement the overall look and feel of your home, by choosing complementary wall colours or introducing pops of colour and conversation starters with framed prints or photographs along the walls of your stairs.

Unique balustrades, handrails, and banisters can become a focal point for your staircase, so consider upgrading these for a fresh new look.

Multifunctional Landing Areas

Landings are intermediate spaces and can be another neglected area in the home, Though small landing areas at the tops of staircases should be kept clutter-free for obvious safety reasons, larger landings offer plenty of untapped potential.

Depending on the size and shape of the space available, landings can be easily transformed into a reading nook, with the addition of an armchair, lamp, and small bookcase. Alternatively, you could create a mini home office by placing a compact computer desk and stool on your landing.

If your landing is mid-sized, or awkwardly shaped, it may not be practical to use it as a sit-down space. However, you could still make it a focal point in your home by placing shelves to showcase ornaments or decorative items or hanging a statement piece of artwork at the top of your stairs.

You could also further extend your storage potential with the introduction of a large wicker hamper or wooden chest to your landing, that can be used to store blankets, towels, and spare bedding for when guests come to stay.