25 Unique Designer Staircases That Will Stop You In Your Tracks
Simply stunning.
Though obviously serving a very important functional purpose, staircases have the potential to elevate an entire house. So much more than a means to get from point A to point B, stairs really can be the main event. From interlocking treads to dramatic corkscrews, we're spotlighting twenty-five unique stairs that prove it. So whether you're anticipating a remodel in your future and need some beautiful stair design ideas for your house or you simply love to admire architectural stunners, these steps will lead you there.
Geometric Juxtapositions
If this striking steel staircase designed by Hecker Guthrie doesn't stop you in your tracks, we don't know what will. The juxtaposition between the spiral and linear motifs is simply mesmerizing. The staircase also helps obscure the minimalist outdoor shower, enhancing privacy without block the view.
Contemporary Elegance
"'Moments’ rather than looks best encapsulate a home’s positive impact, and the ultimate moment experienced in Magnolia House is the slow and elegant descent down its new sculptural staircase, the metaphorical spine of both the home and the project," write designers Arent & Pyke. The jib door is continuous with the baby-blue painted paneling as to not interrupt visual flow while also providing extra storage.
Abstract and Painterly
Leanne Ford gave this lackluster staircase an artistic makeover. To revamp your outdated or traditional stairs, paint them black and then grab a paintbrush. We love the abstract and bold brush strokes here.
Angular and Sweet
This angular stairwell designed by GRT Architects is clean, crisp, and minimalist without feeling cold and remote. The lavender painted rails assert a sweet, lighthearted tough that softens up the sharp angles while simultaneously making them pop even more.
Funhouse Maze
Akin Atelier gave this stairwell a funhouse effect with mirror panels. The mirrored wall makes the stairs look like they stretch out into infinity and beyond while the plush, icy gray carpeting adds a more sophisticated warmth.
Art Deco-Inspired
Designed by Arent & Pyke, this architectural staircase is both timeless and modern. The double frosted glass doors and burnt orange rug lead the eye right to them, but the wooden enclosure obscures them, creating an element of mystery and intrigue. The organic curve sets the tone of rhythm and flow that continues throughout the home.
This dramatic stairwell by Hecker Guthrie looks more like an art installation. The minimalist concrete floating steps allow the natural beauty of the space to shine, quite literally, as the sun peeks through and creates varying shadow patterns throughout the day. It really looks like heaven on the other side.
Natural Stone Color-Blocking
Natural stone stairs exude an air of elegance unlike any other. Designer Tamsin Johnson color-blocked earthy hues, grounding the otherwise all-white space. The sculptural light fixture peek out adds a modern touch.
Industrial Ease
Industrial and gritty, these concrete stairs with a chicken coop wire banister are cool without even trying.
Stairs as Bookshelves
Designers Bill Brockschmidt and Richard Dragisic's New York loft apartment is just 640 square feet. "We had to be inventive," Brockschmidt says. The staircase leading to the bedroom loft incorporates bookshelves, and the landing doubles as a sideboard and bar when they entertain. "All the glasses get stacked on the lower steps," Brockschmidt says. "Of course, that means we quite literally can't go to bed till we clean up."
Whimsical Neutrals
The whimsical pattern of the upholstered stairs—along with the pink framed artwork and decorative gold baluster ornaments—energize this work space designed by Tamsin Johnson.
Nature-Inspired Cocoon
"With references to the dark, ominous cliff and stoic elements that comprise the coast, there is a deliberate departure from the ocean, as inspiration. The result is a palette of dark and textural timbers, stones, textiles and refined metals," says design firm Hecker Guthrie. This nature-inspired, cocoon-like stairwell is warm and mysterious, giving the impression that it leads somewhere magical.
Smooth Swirls
Never underestimate the power of plain white. Modern, organic, and unique, this spiral staircase designed by Robson Rak is beyond dreamy. The continuous white swirl of a banister looks smooth and soft to the touch.
Classic and Ornate
Elaborate and hypnotizing, the classic iron-wrought banister is the heart of this Tasmin Johnson-designed space. The modern wall art also draws the up and contemporizes the traditional elements.
Modern Meets Traditional
Studio DB knows how to make an entrance. In this open foyer, the classic staircase frames the more modern, experimental statements. The simple wainscoting accentuates the beautiful bones of the home.
Family-Friendly and Cozy
Don't forget the space under the stairs. Designer Matt O'Dorisio created this cozy corner for a family getaway. Built-in banquettes have drawers for board games.
Stone Floaters
Architect Ray Booth established new openness in the foyer of a 1961 Houston house, replacing carpeted treads and risers with stone "floaters."
Mediterranean Touches
Terra cotta and blue mosaic tiles as well as the intricate balusters give this Los Angeles home designed by Leanne Ford a Mediterranean flair so every day can feel like a European vacation.
Modern Wood Staircase
Beautifully crafted stairs of interlocking walnut treads lead to the widow's walk of designer David Netto's Southampton, New York, beach cottage.
Textural Moments
This modern space designed by Arent & Pyke is an experiment in material with layers and layers of textural interest. The single green marble step at the bottom of the staircase is an understated and sophisticated touch.
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