Stairways

Spruce up wooden staircases with a touch of wrought-iron railing for earthy elegance.

Don't overlook the potential of unusual spaces such as hallways and stairwells, which account for more square footage in a home than you might think. Rather than neglect this space, give it star status with fun, colorful wallpaper to ground a gallery of art. The orange stripe runners add another element of surprise that guides you up the stairs.

It’s so nice not to walk into an overdone and distracting foyer. We love this straightforward approach because it proves that modest can be marvelous. The open, airy space makes a great first impression and invites guests to see more of the home. Best of all, favorite pieces of artwork claim center stage, sparking curiosity and conversation.

In the right hue, a well-chosen runner highlights the staircase and makes it the focal point of any grand entry.

To make the comings and goings easier underfoot, stairways may be carpeted. Stick with a monochromatic color as seen here in order to let the craftsmanship of the banister really shine.

Stairways off the main entrance can be tricky, for a calming welcome use a light to medium wood varnish and let natural lighting do the rest.

A wide marble-step staircase and a brass infused handrail set off by large wall tiling give the feeling of a luxury resort right at home.

Horizontal accents on this staircase draw the viewer’s eye directly to the intricate detailing on the railing that sits below a dark wooden banister, which echoes the theme of curves at the landing of the stair.

Strong pillars and an asymmetrical handrail mark each landing on this grand staircase that gets a playful mood from iron butterfly designs.

Original floor-to-ceiling windows flood much of this home with natural light. Inspired by nature, the homeowner painting all the ceilings a sky blue.

Monochromatic walls and steps paired with a dark wrought-iron staircase help to make an entire room feel like a breath of fresh air.

Plywood in different varnishes and side paneling that is adhered to the outside of the staircase gives this room a young and creative feel.

Two-toned marble with a marker-esque design makes this small staircase landing pop.

The classic curve of this staircase is accentuated by dark wood steps that are reminiscent of the alternating black and white piano keys.

Small LED lights provide a luminous glow not to mention a safe way to see in the night.

Create your own sunlight with a staircase that contrasts dark wood tones and stark white finishes for a feeling that it’s just another day at the beach.

Oversized, elongated wood panels with wire rail detailing help this comfortable staircase to look as much a part of the room as the couch.

Omit a handrail on staircases adjacent to a wall to avoid an enclosed look in a small space.

For multi-level housing, varying the materials and finishes of each staircase sets the tone for each floor. Here, unfinished wood says play, and geometric designs accentuated by white paint say elegance.

Nothing says urban modern like wire railing set off by an unfinished wood to evoke a sense of creativity in progress.

This narrow, curving wood and steel staircase has a modern look that harkens back to the tradition of narrow stone steps that twist and curve up to a castle tower in the sky.

A stone garden element brings out the Zen-feel of these linear, open stairs.

Chunky wood and metal accents make what could be an opposing multi-tier staircase an enjoyable climb.