INSIDER INSIGHT
top tips For DESIGNING A stylish staircase
“USING decorative Side Stringer brackets can help to Give a Stone-clad Staircase the look of a Solid cantilevered one” NIKKI CHEE, creative director, Artorius Faber, artoriusfaber.com
location
the first thing to consider with a staircase is its position within the space. ‘it is fundamental to any design plan as a staircase ties levels together in order to create a unified whole,’ says architect rodrigo moreno masey. not just functional, statement staircases are sculptural forms channelling light through the voids. ‘it’s possible to transform a home’s layout by replacing several staircases with a single central one, with an atrium or a large skylight above allowing light to flood down to the lower levels,’ says mike fisher, founder and creative director of studio indigo.
design
from modern open staircases to spiral structures, floating treads and classical sweeps, the choice of design is not only endless but it will set the architectural tone of the entire house. ‘a staircase is an integral part of the home and by combining the best materials with craftsmanship-quality installation, a staircase can be transformed into a stunning piece of furniture,’ says James murray, senior staircase designer at neville Johnson.
balustrades
a key structural element, the balustrade is also a chance to add decorative flair. fine powder-coated forged steel spindles can be designed to set a contemporary or traditional tone, while stainless-steel and glass options add instant wow factor. always bear in mind, however, that balustrades must conform to building regulations, so if you’re thinking about doing something a bit different, talk to a building control officer or check current regulations at planningportal.co.uk.
floorcovering
staircases are heavy traffic areas so practicality has to be considered. timber, painted or otherwise, can be noisy so an obvious solution is to fit a stair carpet or runner. ‘we’d always recommend sisal or wool,’ says emma Hopkins of crucial trading. ‘sisal is a hard-wearing, durable option, while wool is softer and easy to clean. if going for a runner, you can add a personalised touch with a customised border in cotton, linen, leather or suede.’
lighting
both practical and visually creative, lighting a staircase shouldn’t be left as a last-minute add-on to a project. traditional staircases can be lit with a dramatic pendant down the central well, while contemporary designs suit small step lights set within the skirting. don’t forget to consider what the lighting will look like from ground level, from the side and when walking down the stairs. ‘as well as lighting the staircase, think about illuminating the visual end point – something to walk towards – such as a beautifully lit painting at the top of the stairs,’ says sally stephenson of owl lighting.