The staircase is likely to be the first thing you see when you step over the threshold, so it needs to be looking its best.
If yours has seen better days, you may consider a refurbishment – switching old stair parts for new ones and adding a fresh lick of paint.
However, if your staircase is damaged beyond repair, you’ll likely need to replace it.
Tearing down a staircase and replacing it with a new one involves a lot of work – but one thing for sure is, it’s guaranteed to transform your home, both practically and visually.
Before you channel your inner designer, we suggest you consider the following factors…
Budget
Designing your dream staircase is exciting, but you need to be realistic.
Although you want it to look great and stand the test of time, you also need to make sure you can afford it.
That’s why it’s a sensible idea to set yourself a budget – and stick to it.
Wooden staircases tend to be the most cost-effective option, but it’s worth factoring in the amount of upkeep they require, as the costs can quickly mount up.
Something else to bear in mind is how much staircase manufacturers charge, and the cost of installation. An experienced company, like Abbott-Wade, will always be clear on their prices, allowing you to see exactly what you’re getting for your money.
Layout
When designing a staircase, it’s helpful to see your current layout.
If you’ve got your floor plans handy, refer to them and experiment with different staircase ideas before you make your final decision.
If you can’t find them, ask your estate agent for a copy or create a quick sketch yourself, so you can visualise the layout and determine what will work best.
Space
Take a look at the space you have available in your home.
If you have a spacious hallway, you could opt for a larger and more decorative staircase, creating a stunning focal point.
If space is at a premium, you may need to install your new staircase in the corner of a room or a tight area. Spiral staircases tend to have a smaller footprint than straight staircases, making them an excellent space-saving option whilst offering plenty of visual interest.
Material
How do you want your new staircase to look?
Wooden staircases offer a warm yet rustic feel and can complement the interior décor in modern and traditional properties.
Metal is a material that’s typically associated with industrial areas. However, more recently, metal staircases have spiked in popularity, and they look great paired with glass panels and wooden stair parts.
Glass offers an attractive and modern alternative to traditional stairs. It’s a material that allows more natural light to enter whilst creating the illusion of more space.
Safety
It’s crucial to consider the safety of your stairs – especially if you share your home with children.
Whilst no staircase should have gaps big enough for an infant’s head to pass through, your choice of wooden or metal spindles could make it very tempting for them to squeeze their little limbs through.
As well as carefully choosing spindles, it’s a good idea to fit a handrail on both sides of the staircase. This will allow elderly family members to stabilise themselves when going up and down, ensuring they don’t fall and seriously injure themselves.
Ready to design your ideal staircase?
You probably already have plenty of staircase ideas and are eager to get started on bringing your dream staircase to life.
However, seeking advice and guidance from the staircase specialists at Abbott-Wade is a smart move.
They will give you the peace of mind that your new structure will be manufactured from the highest quality materials and look great for years to come. They’ll even create a staircase that suits your budget, ensuring you don’t spend a penny more than you can afford.