FLIGHTS OF FANCY

Standout staircases that make an impact

IN A SPIN

A double-height extension presented the opportunity to create an impressive staircase that defines the space. Against a minimally framed glass wall on one side, this open-tread structure, designed by architecture practice Cousins & Cousins, is made from a curved patinated steel sheet with a leather handrail and timber treads. ‘The shape and materials contrast sharply with the crisp white walls, making the staircase the focal point in this period house,’ says the practice’s co-founder Ben Cousins. One of the big challenges was achieving the right finish on the steel to give it the correct amount of patina for the setting, with many tests and samples created before the ideal result was achieved.

on the RUN

Duck-egg blue paint – this shade is teresa’s green estate emulsion, £45 for 2.5L, Farrow & Ball – brings a modern note to this traditional staircase (top). Caroline Inchyra of Inchyra home added a wool runner edged in burgundy that gives a tailored look but is still robust enough for this busy household.

Light the WAY

In this contemporary design (above left) every other tread is lit. Classic oak can be used to clad the steps and risers, with more unusual materials in the details. a steel handrail runs up the wall and storage units under the stairs have been wrapped in aged metal to a design by Cave Interiors.

colour contrast

this scheme (above), in the home of designer Ben Pentreath, pairs a brightly coloured african Kente cloth-inspired runner with dark scrubbed treads. on the walls, the muddy olive tone is a strong neutral for the gallery of prints. the runner is Masai Emerald, £129 linear m, roger oates Design.

“The HALLWAY is A GREAT place TO Be more Adventurous with COLOUR, PATTERN And Texture, SO go FOR A BOLD Runner TO create A warm And inviting FIRST impression” ANDY GUARD, head of design, Roger Oates Design, rogeroates.com