Guide in how to chose an optimal staircase design

There are several factors to consider to ensure you have thought about all you need to, in creating a new staircase, or in remodelling the existing to generate the desired effect.

Space and Safety

The key factor you will need to consider is what kind of staircase can fit into the space you have available. Options are:

a) a straight flight,

b) U-shaped, a second flight returning in the opposite direction, often formed by incorporating two kite winders.

c) L-shaped, a second flight turning a right angle corner and heading off that direction, often formed by adding a kite winder or half landing.

d) Spiral. Particularly useful if space is short or a quirky effect is desired.

e) Paddle staircase, where the treads are say half width alternating to allow creation of a very short horizontal footprint, say for an attic stair.

f) Bifurcated, a stair that splits to go in two directions. Especially useful in stating opulence and availability of lots of space.

It’s very important that what ever is chosen, the functionality of the staircase is considered, the length of the treads, the height of the risers and the head height, both to meet building regulations but also to make it a comfortable stair to use.

Style and material

A staircase makes such a statement. Typically it is seen early when you enter a house and therefore forms a big part of the initial impression.

The style itself can be classic or modern. It can adopt the features of a certain period, for example Victorian, Georgian or Edwardian, which tended to have a particular fashion.

The materials chosen affect the style, but also the practicalities. All manner of combinations are at your disposal when choosing the appearance of your new stair.

Timber of various types, Oak, Pine, Mahogony, Walnut, etc can be used. All of which can remain exposed, be stained or be painted in a style of your choosing.

Steel (painted, blackened or stainless), maybe for balusters, hand-rail or a spine for floating step support, a cantilever, or to support very slender, individual treads.

Glass could be used for balustrades or even treads,

Maybe even concrete or stone, marble, granite treads.

Stunning visual impact within the building can be created using a staircase. The colours and materials used, the lighting of the stairs, which could be incorporated into the treads and risers, or within the balustrade or soffit. Clever lighting that cascades through piece can transform the entire space if done correctly.

Under-stair Space

The space underneath a staircase can be very useful. Clever design can use it well if space is of a premium. It can be storage in various ways, Cupboards, shelves, pull-out cupboard space, shoe drawer in the lowest nook, a small toilet and washbasin can be made to work adding a downstairs loo where there may not otherwise be space, etc.