Stunning Staircases

Gone are the days when the staircase in your home was viewed as something practical, as a means of travelling up and down the floors in your home. While there’s a great choice of styles and designs in the banisters and spindles, the stairs themselves are coming into their own, with a variety of funky ways that they can add to your interior.

Forget about carpeting them from top to bottom, unless that’s what you really want to do, and have a look at some of the novel ways you can bring the WOW factor to the stairs themselves. All you need is some paint and a bit of imagination to transform your treads, but preparation is key.

There are so many great staircase painting possibilities, once you put your creative mind to it.

You could go for a bright block colour on every step, or if you are adventurous you could introduce alternating colours on each tread.

Try painting the treads and rises into complimentary colours for a contrast or get clever with the masking tape and create a bespoke “faux” carpet or runner up the stairs.

Decoupaging the rises with wallpaper or patterned napkins for using stencils can create a really dramatic effect that can turn your staircase into a fantastic feature.

Cover with a coat of clear varnish to protect your handiwork.

Before you begin, have a read of our handy guide to create your very own heavenly staircase.

Preparation

Before you start, make sure that your stairs are in a good stage and if not, repair any loose or broken parts and fill in any dents.

You can paint both bare wood and painted wood but if the stairs are very old and have many layers of paint on, you might want to strip them back before using a fresh paint.

Once prepared, sand the surface then make sure the stairs are clean and free from dust. On bare wood you may want to use a resin and knot blocking primer.

Choose Your Paint

While you can use any wood paint, it’s best to use a floor paint as they are more durable as it will be walked all over, as well being less slippery.

If you do opt for a wood paint, then a satin finish will be best for the treads, whilst gloss can be used on the risers.

Tools

To paint your stairs, you will need rollers and trays, a paint brush, sanding and cleaning equipment and masking tape plus stencils if you are creating patterns.

Tips

Start early and preferably when everyone is out for the day. You need to factor in drying time which will be at least a few hours and be touch dry and longer before you should be walking on it.

For a smooth finish use a small roller but cut in with a paintbrush. If may sound obvious but start at the top and work down so you don’t get stuck upstairs.

Welcome to our world of Interior Design trends for 2023.

Here are some popular styles and ideas that have been making waves in the design industry. Remember, trends are meant to inspire you, but it's essential to design spaces that reflect your personal style and preferences. Feel free to mix and match ideas to create a unique and inviting environment that suits your needs and taste. Happydecorating!

SUSTAINABLE DESIGN:

With a growing emphasis on environmental consciousness, sustainable design is at the forefront. Incorporate eco-friendly materials, such as reclaimed wood, bamboo, and natural textiles, into your interior spaces.

BIOPHILIC DESIGN:

Bring nature indoors by integrating greenery and natural elements. Create living walls, incorporate indoor gardens, and use organic patterns and textures to establish a connection with the outdoors.

MULTIFUNCTIONAL SPACES:

Maximising functionality is key in modern design. Create adaptable spaces that serve multiple purposes, such as a home office that can transform into a guest bedroom or a dining area that doubles as a workspace with something as simple as an elegant room divider.

BOLD COLOURS AND PATTERNS:

Vibrant colours and daring patterns are gaining popularity. Experiment with bold hues, like jewel tones and rich earthy shades, and incorporate eye-catching patterns through wallpapers, fabrics, and statement pieces.

MIXED METALS:

Embrace the art of mixing metals in your decor. Combine brass, copper, gold, and silver finishes to add visual interest and depth to your space. Don't be afraid to mix different metal tones and textures.

MINIMALISM WITH WARMTH:

Minimalist design remains timeless, but with a twist. Combine clean lines and simplicity with warm and cozy elements like soft textures, warm lighting, and natural materials to create inviting and serene spaces.

SMART HOMES:

Integrating technology seamlessly into your living spaces is becoming increasingly popular. Embrace smart home systems, including voice-controlled assistants, automated lighting, and energy-efficient appliances, for added convenience and comfort.

RETRO REVIVAL:

Retro-inspired designs are making a comeback.

Incorporate nostalgic elements from the '70s, '80s, or '90s, such as geometric patterns, bold colours, and vintage furniture, to infuse your space with a touch of nostalgia.