Daydreaming about finishing details here at home as the snow falls, and my energy stays low (since actually executing those details will require commitment and courage!). Our own staircase is a prominent feature in the two-story foyer we transformed. Always toying with the idea of renovation 2.0 where we address finishing the wall at the top of the stairs with paneling/molding. I’m hesitant since I don’t want to veer into fussy territory after practicing restraint to undo the formality! STUNNING STAIRCASE creative decorating ideas inspire along with a few suggested paint colors.
Stunning Staircase: Creative Ideas & Paint Colors
Natural Textural Stair Runners
I was so charmed by the entry to the stairs in Christopher Spitzmiller’s own home at Clove Brook Farm that I may have to buy his book to see more!
I love the simplicity of the jute runner, and isn’t this striped example below wonderful?
So many of you fell in love with this La Jolla “beach cottage” with its dramatic staircase mural:
Speaking of making a statement in an entry with a mural wallpaper and a fancy staircase…
While the mural in my own entry is not hand-painted or Degournay…
it has a similar color scheme and adds a tranquil, pastoral feel right inside the front door.
Alternatively, you can marry the paneled staircase wall with wallpaper mural ideas!
Unfussy Country Style Staircases
It doesn’t get much more undone, unfussy, simple, rustic or airy than the stairs in a New York barn house:
If you love the blue below, I have ideas…
Also, see THIS story for more possibilities of blue paint colors to sample. Paint can truly transform old stairs, and if you’re after high contrast…
charcoal gray brings a modern feel to the above stairs (and if you are DIYer then you understand the beauty of a day or two of painting vs. a year of stripping and staining!!!). Try this gray for a similar look:
Ideas for Painted Stairs
Here’s another staircase where a charcoal gray mimics wrought iron:
Try Iron ore for a rich, almost black effect:
Bold blue can be beautiful in a dim space:
And quiet grays can turn the volume down even in the midst of personality and charm:
I have always loved the look of a painted stair runner. Isn’t it humble and brilliant as a budget friendly alternative?
Staircases as Sculpture & Art
What dreams may come when an architect designs something truly spectacular for the stairs and surroundings:
We’re definitely easing into fantasy territory as entries, foyers, and stair decorating goes…
But it’s truly a wonder what architects, builders, and designers can dream up!
This next beautiful staircase design always makes me giggle a little since my FB audience went insane about this particular chair on a landing:
While we remain clueless as to why the chair is there, followers have imagined all sorts of stories and shared them enthusiastically.
Inspiring Blues
Love blue or need a little coastal inspo by chance?
This turquoise cheery moment above reminds me of springtime and all things coastal lovely!
The example above feels so palatial that plenty of folks will wonder if it is Ai.
Decorating Stairs With Paneling & Applied Trim
I don’t think I understood how many options there were even if you have a particular style of moldings in mind and want to add more architectural interest to your stair walls.
Tongue and groove, board and batten, beadboard, picture frame, and many other possibilities exist.
It’s helpful if you are planning such details when you are building or at the beginning of renovations since I can tell you from experience it’s a messy (and at times scary) undertaking.
Seeing photos and saving them to Pinterest boards is so helpful if you are collecting inspiration for such trim and panels.
I loved how Lisa Furey combined shiplap with a very modern staircase design:
Gallery Wall
Gallery walls can also add geometric, architectural interest to the staircase while reflecting your personal style.
Need ideas for inexpensive art to frame for a gallery wall? I love the vintage print on this mood board:
I hope this collection gets your wheels turning and is helpful if you are searching for inspiration to build, restore, or perk up your own home.
Are these my favorite stairs of all time?
I just love those soft blues with the warmth of the white oak and surrounding neutrals.
Tour this pretty home if you have a moment for inspiration:
Peace to you right where you are.
-michele
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