Take the Stairs!

Last week we worked with a client who was moving into a new house.  We spent the day placing furniture and hanging pictures and making it feel like a home for her.  There was one area that just needed some attention....the stairwell.   We found a set of matching prints and installed them going up the wall.  What a difference it made.....and it got me to thinking....How often do we ignore this area of the home?

Some homes have stairwells and landings that are spacious and almost room like, while others are just wall space to get from one floor to the other.  Any space can be enhanced with good design, so I've compiled a group of images that should inspire you.

In a new build or a major remodel, the landing area is a great place to add functionality and extra living space.  

What a great place to tuck in a little office spot, 

or linen storage for the upstairs bedrooms, 

 or a library that opens up to a second floor balcony!

I know you've thought that the landing would be a great place for a window seat, and it is!

But did you consider that it might be a good place for the laundry facilities?
That was a new one for me!

Bookcases are a natural for the narrow space between walls, and they create a real warmth that only books can bring.

Putting a desk area under the stairs is a great use of space too!

For those of you with a double staircase, isn't this a fine thing to put inbetween?
What a beautiful focal point that would make from down below!

 I love the look of these enclosed bookcases.  What beautiful, classically designed doors are these, showcasing collectibles as well as books.

But even if  you don't have a generous landing like these images above, you can do a lot to enhance the walk upstairs.

I think this stone inset is a fabulous way to bring character to an otherwise boring space, and it utilizes the space that's already there, so minimal construction would be needed to make a huge difference. 

Mirrors are a favorite way to add volume and light to a narrow and often dark stairwell.

Gorgeous!

This type of built in would not require a major expense or effort to create.

And don't forget that pictures add interest and color too.  Gallery walls are a great way to display beautiful art or family pictures.

And if you just have to have some extra storage, ( or a place to play hide and seek!) you might try this!

Think creatively about your stairwell and landing, and it could be the space in your home that you love the most!