The staircase is often one of the first things you see when you step into a home – and as the saying goes, first impressions count.
For that reason, we believe the humble staircase deserves far more attention than it’s typically given! That’s why we’re dedicating this month’s blog post to some of the standout staircases we’ve reimagined in recent years.
From subtle design updates such as replacing balusters, handrails and newel posts – changes that require relatively modest investment yet deliver significant results – to complete structural redesigns where we’ve replaced staircases in their entirety, each project demonstrates how thoughtful design can enhance both beauty and function…
MAKING A MEMORABLE FIRST IMPRESSION
More often than not, the staircase is one of the first things you see when you enter a home, setting the tone for the rest of the house. For this reason, we always suggest treating it as a focal point because – ask any estate agent – those crucial first impressions really do count.
One of our most striking examples is the stunning family home we worked on in South Wales. As you can see from the photos below, when we were first approached, our clients’ staircase was concealed beneath thick beige carpet, embossed floral wallpaper and dated orange-toned handrails and newel posts. Yet we instantly recognised original craftsmanship waiting to be restored!
By carefully sanding and re-staining the carved newel posts, painting the treads and risers in a warm white to maximise light, and replacing the carpet with a soft neutral runner and navy border from Crucial Trading, finished with antique brass stair rods, the result is both timeless and characterful – a staircase that not only commands attention but has undoubtedly added value to the home.
THE VISUAL THREAD OF A HOME
If you read our journal regularly, you’ll know that we often talk about ‘flow’ and ‘seamless design’. Why so? Because unifying a home’s aesthetic is central to what we do! And – quite literally – nothing connects a home like its staircase.
In our Bristol Family Home project – a three-storey property – we inherited two sets of developer-grade stairs in a yellow-toned oak synonymous with many new builds that didn’t reflect the calm, timeless scheme our clients were seeking.
Working alongside a staircase specialist, we replaced the handrails and newel posts with a softer lime-washed oak, repainted the banisters, and introduced bespoke wall panelling to add character and interest. The transformation ensures both staircases now act as a visual thread, connecting each floor seamlessly.
AN OPPORTUNITY TO INJECT PERSONALITY
Because the staircase is such a focal point in a home, it’s one of the easiest ways to inject personality into your space.
For instance, in our Surrey Cottage project, the original staircase felt narrow, dark and uninspiring. By removing the grey carpet, installing a curved bullnose bottom step and adding tongue-and-groove panelling at mid-height, we introduced both character and architectural detail. A considered pop of colour completed the transformation, resulting in a staircase that feels lighter, more spacious and full of charm.
Similarly, in our London Family Home project – a full renovation of a Victorian family home – we restored the original staircase by sanding back the overly glossy timber, repainting, and adding a beautifully textured runner with contrast edging. The simple but effective addition of a curated gallery wall with beautiful artwork now draws the eye upward, creating depth and visual interest, too.
MAXIMISING SPACE AND FUNCTIONALITY
Of course, some staircases require more than cosmetic updates. In certain cases, structural redesign is essential to unlock a home’s full potential.
This was true in the old Methodist church we worked on in South Wales. Not only were the spindles damaged and the overall design, dated, but the existing straight-run staircase was both steep and occupied valuable floor space.
By replacing it with a mid-turn, half-landing design with sleek glass balustrades, we instantly freed up space and improved that all-important flow. The handrail was painted in Railings by Farrow & Ball to complement the property’s wider palette, while a soft contemporary runner added warmth and texture.
In a similar manner, on the second floor of our Surrey Cottage project, we reconfigured the narrow attic staircase by replacing open treads with a wider, closed-tread design compliant with current building regulations. By painting it in the same rich green to mirror the ground floor staircase (as seen above), we created a sense of cohesion within the home while significantly improving safety and comfort for our clients.
FINAL THOUGHTS
We’re hoping by now that we’ve convinced you that the staircase is far more than a functional necessity?! It is an architectural anchor, a design statement and, often, the very first glimpse into the character of a home.
With that in mind, if you’re thinking about redesigning your staircase or undertaking a wider home renovation in general, please don’t hesitate to reach out here if you have any questions.
For now, have a great week and we look forward to welcoming you back next month.
