Elevate your home with a stunning staircase

In today's housing market, where plots of land are generally smaller, building upwards is often a necessity. But staircases have evolved beyond their basic purpose of connecting floors. 

“Staircases used to be purely functional, but now they’re seen as an opportunity to add design interest and personality to a home,” says Warwick.

Where you place your staircase can significantly impact your home's layout and ambience. Commonly found at the entrance, a staircase can create a dramatic entranceway that sets the tone for the rest of the house. However, staircases located centrally or even towards the back of the home can offer practical solutions while still being stylish. 

"Often, staircases are at the front of a house because it’s the most practical location but placing them centrally can also create a beautiful focal point and improve the flow of the home," says Warwick.

Today's staircases come in a variety of materials, from traditional timber to modern glass and chrome combinations. This mix can create a contemporary feel while maintaining warmth and elegance. Whether you opt for a bold glass balustrade or the timeless charm of wooden steps, the material choice plays a key role in the staircase’s overall look. 

"Combining materials like glass, metal, and wood can give staircases a modern edge while still retaining a classic feel," says Warwick. "This versatility allows homeowners to match their staircase design with the rest of their home's décor."

Lighting can transform a staircase from a functional necessity into a captivating feature. Practical lighting options like tread lights ensure safety, while more elaborate lighting designs, such as LED strips under the steps or handrail lighting, can create a visually stunning effect. 

“Often lighting comes down to practicality. If it's a standard staircase, people might just go for a more basic tread light. Whereas if they've got more of a feature-type staircase, then the lighting can be more of a part of that feature,” says Warwick. 

“Pendant lights are a traditional choice but still really popular because there are so many options for light shades that can tie in with whatever décor or theme you have throughout the rest of the house.”

Incorporating storage solutions into your staircase design can boost its functionality without sacrificing style. From traditional under-stair cupboards to innovative storage drawers, the possibilities are endless. 

Warwick says the initial design conversation often includes these considerations. "We start by discussing the desired look of the staircase and then explore how to integrate storage without compromising the design.

"For instance, floating stairs look stunning but don't allow for under-stair storage, so we plan accordingly."

When designing a staircase, safety should be top of mind. For instance, the New Zealand building code specifies a maximum gap of 100mm between each tread and between balustrade components. 

Proper handrail design and adequate lighting are also important considerations. Handrails should be easy to grip and at a comfortable height for all users. And making sure each step is well-lit to prevent missteps and accidents, making the staircase safer for everyone.

Just like the rest of the house build, the cost of a staircase can vary greatly depending on its design and materials. While a standard carpeted staircase might cost around $6,000, a feature staircase can easily reach $40,000. Balancing your budget with your design aspirations is crucial. 

"You can create a beautiful staircase within a budget by carefully choosing materials and design elements," says Warwick. "Even with a modest budget, there are ways to make a staircase look impressive without breaking the bank."

From grand entranceways to elegant simplicity, Landmark Homes can help you create the staircase – and the home – that’s just right for you and your family. Take the first step and contact your local Landmark Homes team today.