Staircase: Styles for your home

If you are lucky enough to have the opportunity to include a staircase in your new or renovated home, then consider your options carefully, because this feature could create a special and arresting look for your interior. The staircase you choose could be simple and dramatic, elegant and sweeping, or blended seamlessly into your home's interior design; your choice will dictate the look.

What styles of staircase are available?

Staircase styles are as varied and interesting as the houses they adorn.

Be excited, because the options are huge and can alter or set the tone for your home. Shapes of staircases vary from straight and functional, through L or U shaped with landings, to sweeping curves or even romantic spirals. Choose the shape that sets the tone you want.

Widths also vary. A narrow staircase might suit the wrought iron spiral, a wide, large stepped look could work beautifully with a warm wooden simple staircase that is L shaped or straight. Consider function too; a staircase that will be used by children, to carry heavy loads such as shopping or at night in lower lighting may need to be wider for safety.

There's more choice in the materials that your staircase could be constructed from. A variety of warm timbers, stark strong steel or romantic wrought iron are some options that you may consider.

Staircase: Choose the right style

There are other, more practical factors that may influence your choice of staircase.

• The cost. Materials, design, installation and other factors influence this. Have a budget and stick to it, and shop around for quotes before you make decisions
• Style - whether you want a staircase that will blend with the interior you have or create a dramatic effect will influence this
• The type of home you have - a loft may suit a stark dramatic brushed steel look, a vintage or period home will require something in sympathy with the construction, a modern home will allow more flexibility
• Your choice of materials will depend on the effect you want as well as safety factors
• A change of shape (from L to curved for example) can create significant change in a renovated home
• Consider the space you have, lighting, and whether you want to use the under stair space
• Safety is an important feature of a staircase, particularly if you have children, or if elderly people or anyone with a disability will be sharing the home

The inclusion of a staircase in the design of your new or renovated home can lift the look and feel of the interior as well as providing a practical feature. Don't rush in; consider the options and provide your home with a lasting central feature that will be a pleasure to use as well as to look at for many years to come.