Staircase Design as Home Improvement
When you think about home improvement projects, changing your staircase style may not immediately come to mind. If you think of a staircase as an interior design feature, though, you begin to understand how different staircase styles can impact a home in different ways, either increasing or decreasing its appeal. Here, we discuss various factors to consider when you are deciding on a staircase for your home.
Assess the Space
Look at your existing space and think about the features you would like to enhance. Think about the available area so that you can determine the size of your staircase’s footprint. If you don’t have much room, consider a space-saving staircase, like a compact or spiral staircase. If you have more floorspace to utilize, you can have a larger staircase, but you still need to evaluate the number of turns and landings, the minimum headroom required, the upstairs floorspace needed for the staircase opening, and the visual impact you want your stairs to have. In a room with great natural light, for instance, opt for an open style staircase or glass balustrading, to avoid blocking the light. If your staircase will be in a large entryway, you might want to design a grand, impressive staircase that makes a stunning first impression.
Determine Your Budget
Once you have considered the size and type of staircase you need, and have begun thinking about its aesthetic, it is time to seriously look at your budget. Bespoke staircases can be stunning, but they are more expensive than pre-fabricated stairs. Your budget will dictate the materials available to use, and factor largely into the style of staircase you can afford. Once you know how much you plan to spend, talk to your staircase installers to determine what kind of stairs will meet your needs and enhance your décor without breaking the bank.
Consider Safety
Safety is one of the biggest considerations when you are installing stairs. How many people will be using your staircase? What mobility issues, if any, are at play? Who will be using the stairs in your house? If you have young children, a closed staircase may be the way to go. Similarly, if someone in your household struggles with mobility, a spiral staircase may prove too difficult to use. Plan for safety, and make sure your staircase is constructed in compliance with local building regulations.
Find Inspiration
Once you have some general ideas, it’s time to dream a little. Look to Pinterest for interesting designs, and you will be rewarded with tons of gorgeous staircase images. Gather ideas from any source that appeals to you, taking into consideration:
- Design: Do you prefer straight stairs, a half turned staircase, a quarter turned staircase, or a spiral staircase? If you are not sure what those terms mean, it’s time to brush up on your staircase design terminology. Some of these options will provide you with extra storage, some will create an amazing look, but all deserve your attention, because you will want to be able to discuss design intelligently when you meet with the designer.
- Visual impact: Before you meet with your staircase designer, take notes and collect images, so that you can formulate a plan for your staircase and be sure you’re on the same page. Look through our portfolio of past projects for inspiration, and consider how the elements that appeal to you would fit into your home’s existing aesthetic.
- Materials: There is an amazing array of materials available for making stairs. Wood, metal, and glass are some of the options used for stairs and balustrades, and you can even mix materials to make your staircase your own.
- Storage: Make the most of your space by utilising any otherwise unused area, like the spot under the stairs. Add cupboards or drawers, to store things like shoes, coats, and toys.
Build Your Perfect Staircase with Hampshire Staircase Refurbishments
If you are ready for a staircase update, trust Hampshire Staircase Refurbishments to carry out your project as if it were our own. Our small, family-run company is based in Yateley, Hampshire, and we place an emphasis on traditional values and services. Our owner has more than 40 years of experience in carpentry and joinery, and we are committed to providing our customers with a high standard from the initial enquiry until the project is completed. What’s more, all of our work is fully insured, for our customers’ peace of mind. When you need staircase refinishing, you can count on us to complete your project to the highest standard. To see the amazing staircase designs we have created, take a look at our testimonials page or enquire about the projects we have done for homeowners in Hampshire, along with parts of Berkshire, Surrey, and the South of England. For more information or to request a visit from our experts, call 01252 941393 or contact us through our website.
