Plan to perfection
Consider all the options when tackling bigger projects
Step ahead
The staircase is one feature of your home where improvements can really add the wow factor. A showstopping design, in wood, steel, glass, stone or concrete, with sparkling glass or shapely wooden balustrades, can completely transform the entrance to your home.
If the intention is to move the stairs, the ‘circulation’ – how people move around your home – is important. ‘Consider the space as a whole, not just the hallway or immediate vicinity of the staircase,’ says Richard McLane, founder and design director of Bisca. ‘If you have an open-plan arrangement, the stairs will be on view from more than one angle. And think how you approach the staircase – would a curved design, or directional bottom treads be an option?’
For a modern look, consider a cantilever staircase, where one side appears to float freely. You’ll need the advice of a structural engineer before fitting one.
Helical stairs make a statement where space isn’t an issue or for a loft or basement. There are spacesaving options with alternating wide and narrow treads. Expect to pay upwards of £20,000 for a bespoke staircase, or just a few hundred pounds for an off-the-peg solution. A refurbishment service from Neville Johnson, for £2,400 plus, gives stairs a facelift with new treads, balustrades and newel posts; or try James Grace for new stairs and refurbishments.
Every aspect of a staircase is controlled by Building Regulations, including the tread sizes, the ‘rake’ or angle, as well as the floor space and landings. A handrail is a must.
Fabulous underfoot
Beautiful wood and stone, practical tiles and on-trend concrete and resin floors are all options for creating a spacious feel. First decide whether you want underfloor heating and, if using wood, whether it’s suitable for use with this. Ask your fitter how any steps or changes in level will be dealt with. What’s beneath the floor finish really counts. Existing floorboards must be dry, level and woodworm-free. A layer of 6mm plywood or an underlay may be needed on top. A concrete sub floor must be dry, level and, if at ground level, must have a damp-proof membrane.
Plan in time between delivery and fitting before a wood floor is fitted as it needs time to acclimatise to the moisture levels in the house – this could be just a couple of days for engineered boards or more than a week for solid flooring. Solid wood flooring usually has tongue-andgroove planks, which are glued or nailed down, or use a click system. Engineered boards and laminate usually click together, forming a ‘floating’ floor on top of a soundproof underlay.