What better way to make a striking first impression than with a dramatic staircase?
We’re not necessarily referring to the sort of ornate spiral stairways most commonly seen in costume dramas (yes, we're thinking of that heartbreaking final scene from Titanic_) -_it wouldn’t exactly be easy to work such set-pieces into the average home, on the average budget, after all. Instead, we're talking about the myriad ways in which you can transform your staircase (often the first thing that visitors to your home will lay eyes on) into a statement feature without ripping it all up and starting again.
Using easily accessible materials and a little creativity, it won't take too much time to change the entire look and feel of your hallway.
As ever, Pinterest is our ultimate source of inspiration. A quick trawl through the photo-sharing site will present you with countless ideas, whether your interiors tastes are more minimalist or eclectic in style. Think of this as a great opportunity to play around with colour and print.
A more minimal, Scandi style hallway looks even better with a staircase painted in a complementary neutral shade; if you are after something bolder, grab yourself some paint tester pots and a brush to add a pop of colour to the risers (that's the vertical part of the step), or consider an ombré style colour fade from top to bottom. If you're after something less permanent, consider investing in patterned vinyl stickers: they're affordable, eye-catching and the perfect way to recreate that amazing tiled finish you spotted in Lisbon last summer.
Scroll on for more of our favourite Pinterest-approved staircase ideas...
Staircases Pinterest Grazia
staircase pinterest
Add interest to a minimalist space with a burst of pattern.
staircase pinterest
Offset colourful steps against simple white walls (dog not included, sadly)
staircase pinterest
Echo a bold wallpaper choice with monochrome steps.
staircase pinterest
A staircase can provide the perfect nook for a gallery wall...
staircase pinterest
If you're using a statement colour (like Farrow&Ball's Hague Blue) consider using it for your staircase, too.
staircase pinterest
staircase pinterest
Vinyl stickers are a simple (and temporary) way to add a pop of colour or pattern.
staircase pinterest
Dark stairs make a statement against white walls and simple furnishings.
staircase pinterest
Metal fixtures and a simple backdrop are a classic combination.
staircase pinterest
White paint and wood makes for a clean, minimal and stylish finish.
staircase pinterest
Try a subtle colour fade...
staircase pinterest
... experiement with a more dramatic ombré...
staircase pinterest
... or use the same trick on your bannisters instead.
Want more interiors inspiration? Check out our guide to the most playful nursery décor ideas, the best round mirrors on Pinterest and the best bathrooms online...
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