The staircase can truly be the centerpiece of your custom home. The function of a staircase is of course to facilitate flow from one level of your home to the next, but when designed properly and open to the house, it can also become the centerpiece.

Staircases should blend naturally into the home’s architectural style, but also be eye-catching and aesthetically pleasing. Traditionally, staircases stem from the foyer, but often they are found in the center or side of the home as well. Shapes, styles and materials can completely vary to fit in with the look and feel of the house. Clean, contemporary smooth lines, spiral and circular designs: there are many options, so it is important to really consider how your staircase(s) will work in your home to be both functional and beautiful.

When selecting your staircase, there is much more to consider then the just the aesthetics.

Budget:

An area that must be considered when selecting the design of your staircase is the budget. Once that is set, it will narrow down materials to be used, as well as the style.

Safety:

It is vital to consider the safety of the stairs and who is going to be using them.

If the stairs will be regularly frequented by children or elderly, you should consider wood with carpet over hard surfaces like stone or concrete, as it will be much more forgiving. Staircases can also be versatile by adding storage space underneath of them. The safest stairs have a landing with a return to a L-shaped or U-shaped stairway. The handrail must also be taken into consideration for the staircase as well.

Space:

This is a large part of the decision for the style of the staircase. How much room in your home will be allocated to the staircase? A spiral staircase can take up significantly less room, but how does that work with those using it? Consider the safety of those who are using them the most frequently. A wider staircase may be more comfortable with less of a pitch than a steeper staircase.

Material and Design:

There are so many options when it comes to these two areas. Materials can range from timber planks to glass, marble or stone, steel and concrete; these are all options. The material selected will drive the design or vice versa. Straight, spiral, half turn, quarter turn can be created based on the style and space in your home. When selecting the design, you need to be aware of codes that may change the height, depth and pitch of your stairs. Your builder and architect should work with you to make sure you are within code.

Be Sure of Decision:

Unlike updating lighting fixtures, wall colors, or even a bathroom, your staircase will likely stay the same. It is not something you are likely to replace, as it is difficult to do and expensive. Taking time to really think through every detail on the design, style and shape will be worth it. The custom staircase of your home really can be the signature statement in your custom home.