Blog>Ideas>Enclosed staircase decorating ideas: Tread carefully
Last updated: 19 February 2024
Enclosed staircase decorating ideas: Tread carefully
If you're looking for ways to brighten your enclosed staircase with some innovative decorating ideas, you've come to the right place. We have practical tips and design tidbits for creating a welcoming throughway between your floors.
How do you make an enclosed staircase look good?
An enclosed staircase means there are two walls on either side of the steps, creating a boxed-in effect. However, the walls don't have to be opaque – they just need to enclose the space (bannisters don't count).
As a result, these small and narrow spaces are renowned for their light-repelling properties, which means design tricks often include ways to brighten the area to make it more welcoming.
How do you brighten enclosed stairs?
We're glad you asked! Thankfully, there are loads of ways to give your enclosed staircase a bright and light makeover.
For starters, clever tricks such as smart lighting, mirrors, artwork, bright wall finishes, and decorative runners are all easy ways to lighten your stairway. We've put together our favourite looks to inspire your enclosed staircase design.
Can't wait to get started? Get in touch with one of our professionals today by popping your postcode into the search bar below. We'll send a list of our staircase transformation experts who are ready to give your staircase the ultimate makeover.
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Enclosed staircase decorating ideas
1. Enclosed stairway decorating ideas: Roll out the stair carpet
Stair runners to stairs are the equivalent of tiaras to princesses. They inject immediate class and style, and just so happen to come in a variety of colours and finishes to suit a multitude of tastes.
For example, the left design demonstrates an ombre effect, which is a nice way to lead the eye upwards or downwards (depending on where you're standing). It's subtle but impactful. On the contrary, the neutral carpet with framing stripes marks out an aisle that keeps you between the lines.
2. Decorating an enclosed staircase: Panels and patterns
Keep your decor bright and light with subtle patterns and panelling. These medium-wood stairs with cream risers use alternating geometric designs to add interest and character.
Other details include cream wainscoting panels that frame the staircase walls. The result is a classy yet unpretentious design, perfect for homes looking for a delicate lift.
Related content: Statement staircase ideas: Get inspired for your next home project.
3. Luxe staircase makeover: Faux marble and torus skirting board
Create contrast with a black-and-white monochrome design. These stairs scream opulence with their black marble and white veining, while the Torus skirting board follows the tread for a satisfying parallel.
Furthermore, small square lights are placed over every other stair, adding extra illumination and safety for when the sun goes down. It's a high-end design that proves how clean lines and subtle detailing equal class.
4. Enclosed staircase wall decorating ideas: Lights and exposed bricks
Keep your staircase contemporary chic with two types of wallpaper and statement light sconces. In this case, the wood-effect wallpaper houses the lights while the brick-effect wallpaper marks where the stairs start to curve.
It's effortlessly high-end, especially when paired with strip lights underneath each stair's nosing. Just imagine the soft-lit glow as you make your way to bed!
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5. Lead the eye wayward with a picture wall
Whether you're easily bored or just want an extra place to infuse your personality, lining your enclosed walls with pictures and artwork you love will make the chore of walking up and down stairs much more interesting.
Mirrors are also a wonderful way to invite the light and create the illusion of more space. Whether you use them as makeshift runners or intersperse them between your artwork, consider adding them alongside your wall decorations.
6. Enclosed staircase wallpaper ideas: Stripes and textures
For modern elegance, blue and gold stripes are on-trend and sophisticated. Paired with a statement chandelier and wrought iron balustrades, the combinations evoke a French country dream house.
However, if you're looking for the same design impact but with an urban twist, choose a textured wallpaper such as these thin brick tiles, and pair it with dark wood stairs for depth and warmth.
Related content: 24 decorating ideas for stairs and hallways: how to upgrade the highway of your home.
7. Enclosed staircase decorating ideas: Lights and large shapes
Enclosed spiral staircases are stylish and contemporary. For a high-end finish, remove the stair risers for extra space between the steps. This results in a fun floating effect and also lets you install lights beneath the nosing for greater design impact.
This enclosed stair design uses perspex glass on some of the framing, allowing more light to reach the upper steps. Also, the placement of the staircase leaves a large wall area that these homeowners have covered up with a large geometric stencil sticker.
Related content: Statement staircase ideas: Get inspired for your next home project.
8. Narrow enclosed staircase decorating ideas: Bright and fun mosaic tiles
Bright and bold mosaic stair tiles are an effortless way to add character and uniqueness to your staircase. These fun and colourful geometric patterns cover each riser, making going upstairs much more interesting than downstairs! Small and round inset lights are also installed on each step, offering a guiding glow when needed.
The finishing touches to these stairs include metal and wood skirting boards and bright red wall paint. It's a home that embraces an eccentric aesthetic, offers a lively vibe, and gives a warm welcome.
Did you find what you were looking for? We hope so! If you'd like more ideas and trends like this, don't forget to check out our blog.
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