Decorating a stairwell can be tricky, especially when trying to avoid a cluttered look. With a few thoughtful design choices, you can transform this often-overlooked area into a stylish and functional part of your home. Here’s how to decorate your stairwell without overwhelming the space:
Create a Gallery Wall
A gallery wall can turn a plain stairwell into a personal and artistic showcase. Curating a selection of framed artwork or photographs adds a personal touch, resonating with your style and telling a story. Maintaining a cohesive and uncluttered look is key, so choose frames with a consistent style and colour. This keeps the display harmonious and ensures the artwork takes centre stage without creating visual chaos.
Select the Right Lighting
Lighting plays a significant role in creating an inviting stairwell. Choosing the best stairwell lighting involves considering both functionality and style. Wall-mounted lights are a sleek option for illuminating the space without taking up room, making them ideal for narrow stairwells.
Pendant lights, on the other hand, can serve as a stylish focal point in the stairwell, especially if you select a design that complements your home’s overall decor. For a modern and subtle glow, consider adding LED strip lighting along the steps or under the bannister. This not only enhances the aesthetic but also improves safety.
Decorate with Colour and Paint
Adding colour to your stairwell is an easy way to inject personality and charm. Painting one wall in a bold colour can create a striking focal point, especially in stairwells with high ceilings. Another creative approach is to paint the risers with patterns, stripes, or a contrasting shade. This simple touch can make your staircase stand out and add an unexpected element of interest.
Add a Stair Runner
Stair runners are both practical and decorative. They bring warmth, colour, and texture to the stairwell, adding comfort underfoot while helping to reduce noise. Opt for a neutral-toned runner with subtle patterns like herringbone or stripes to achieve a clean and elegant appearance. This allows you to introduce interest without overwhelming the space.
Use Mirrors
Mirrors can make a stairwell feel larger and brighter by reflecting light. Hanging a large mirror strategically on a wall that catches natural light will create the illusion of more space. Alternatively, you can arrange smaller decorative mirrors to add interest without overcrowding the area. Unique shapes and frames can add a touch of creativity to the stairwell décor.
Add a Feature Wall
A feature wall can become the centrepiece of your stairwell. Patterned or textured wallpaper is a great way to create a striking focal point that matches your home’s theme. For a more personalised and artistic touch, consider commissioning a bespoke mural. This can transform your stairwell into a one-of-a-kind space that reflects your style.
Highlight the Railing
The railing is an often-overlooked design element in stairwells. Replacing plain railings with intricate wrought iron or glass designs instantly adds elegance and character. For a more unique and tactile element, enhance the railing with wrapped materials such as rope, jute, or fabric. These additions can create an unexpected design feature that ties in with the rest of your decor.
Incorporate Functional Storage
Make your stairwell work harder by integrating storage solutions. Recessed shelves built into the walls can hold books, plants, or decorative items, utilising the space without adding bulk. If the area beneath the stairs is accessible, create hidden storage compartments or drawers. This is an ideal way to store shoes, coats, or other household items while keeping the space tidy and organised.
Add Greenery
Plants can breathe life into your stairwell and make it feel more inviting. Hanging plants in wall-mounted or suspended planters are perfect for adding greenery without taking up floor space, especially in stairwells with high ceilings. Small pots of greenery on floating shelves or ledges can also make a big impact. Opt for low-maintenance plants like succulents or air plants to keep the upkeep minimal.