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290+ Photos of beautiful Options for stairs to the second floor in a private house (wooden, metal, concrete)

Alena Likhomanova

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Are you sure you know all about what kind of stairs you need to the second floor? Check yourself.

Content:

Staircase in the living room interior

The staircase is a functional element of architecture, beautiful design and beautiful lifestyle. Aesthetics, quality, creativity, design and innovation are critical factors for the overall impression.

Now you are probably wondering what perfect design will ensure the absolute harmony of your room? Or do you already have ideas for a staircase or railing that you want to embody in your home? When you need unusual solutions for getting up to the second floor, get inspired by these amazing ideas.

The way to move to the second floor as an object of art

A new look at the vertical movement in the house embodies a clear design, high artistic standards. Modern design, appropriate material, as well as flight of stairs, railings are created by designers, artists to provide a cozy, stylish atmosphere. Console structures that accurately reflect the spirit of the times are popular all over the world.

Cantilever staircase with wooden steps

Glass lifts

Glass lifts are no less popular, they visually increase the space of rooms. Glass walls provide transparency, lightness.

Impressive glass console design

Wooden steps

However, metal, wooden steps provide high stability. To complete harmony leads a balanced combination of different materials. Regardless of whether they are fixed, free-standing or suspended - angle, length, width are planned individually.

The ladder is a design which invariably has to combine high comfort, durability. Those models that do not have additional wall mount and load, are characterized by one central mount, fragile steps. Depending on the design, material, types of modern design of the stairs are practically unlimited.

The original design of the sculptural stairs

We agree with the general interior

When planning you need to align its elements with the overall interior design, if you want, look at some ready-made projects. For example, in a minimalist interior, an ornamental staircase would look inappropriate.

On the other hand, if you want to turn it into a focal object, you will choose a spectacular artistic design with an unusual shape, color or interesting railing.

Bright staircase to the second floor

Remember that safety is of particular importance, the design of your staircase should be comfortable and safe for young children or elderly family members.

8 different types for each house

There are different installations, each of which has its advantages and disadvantages. When building or repairing a house that requires vertical movement, it is important to consider which type of lift is best suited for the construction, as well as for the owner's taste.

Modular staircase with glass steps

When it comes to choosing a design for a house, you need to look at the shape of the space where it will stand, how often it will be used, and its purpose (main or additional).

Some designers will immediately tell you: the type of ladder is the first thing to think about. There are many different styles, decorations, materials that can be used to personalize the interior, but first we will look only at the types of staircases that are best suited for different spaces.

Read about eight popular types of stairs, from no-frills models to complex structures. Show selected favorites to your contractor to discuss which options matter most at home.

Straight

Straight staircase example

Direct installations are the most common, popular, because they are convenient, functional, most cost-effective. In this classic design, the tread is located in a straight path with a uniform distribution. The straight form has one linear span without changing direction.

Considering the most inexpensive and convenient design, consider a straight staircase, which would not be the wrong choice. It is particularly suitable for minimalist homes and interiors due to the inherent simplicity.

However, this type occupies a lot of linear space, making no barrier between floors, which does not create privacy.

L-shaped (corner)

Wood corner staircase

The corner is basically a straight staircase with a change in direction in the middle. Linear steps are complemented by a platform that turns the direction of motion by 90 degrees. The type of installation has the second popular name L-shaped; it can have more than one site when more than one orientation change is required.

This type is very comfortable and safer than straight, due to the landing, which provides a place to rest in the movement up or down. This staircase ergonomically fits into a corner layout, as it easily matches the design space of the house.

This is a very logical use of space, which can be much more visually interesting than the direct type. The disadvantage is that it is more difficult to build, and additional support support is usually needed, which makes it less cost-effective.

Hybrid

Hybrid staircase in the interior

This is a less safe type, which excludes landing on turns in 90 or 180 degrees. The form is compensated by wedge-shaped steps around the turns.

Visually interesting type, because it creates gentle, smooth lines, a smooth transition from one level to another. Such characteristics make it popular in new homes, it can be easily installed in the most inconvenient places.

The hybrid model requires less space, but it is complex in design, requires very accurate calculations, planning. The narrowing of the wedge-shaped steps also makes turning more difficult to navigate, dangerous for a missed step.

U-shaped (swivel)

U-shaped staircase in a country house

The device allows you to change its direction by 180 degrees. This is also achieved with the help of platforms, which usually divide the steps into equal parts, forming a half-turn with parallel spans.

Such an installation is functional, much safer, since the wide possibilities of the flight of stairs limit the number of steps at which someone may fall. This type also has a great architectural interest in any design, can easily fit into the plan of most homes. However, it is best suited for homes with high ceilings or when planning, when there are several levels of aisles in the house.

Spiral

Elegant spiral staircase

The compact design here is centered around one pole, so if you looked at it from above, you would see the perfect circle. But some things need to be considered here: the narrow wedge-shaped steps of the spiral staircase are not the easiest to pass.

However, this is by far the most interesting design. It has a spiral arc, resembling the shape of a spring. All steps are wedge-shaped, but unlike the hybrid, arched type, they have a consistent size. There is a central vertical support around which the steps are located.

Forged spiral staircase

Spirals are found mainly in urban apartments with attics, due to the economical use of space, ease of installation, and capacity limitations. The spiral is not suitable for frequent use, as it has a limited area that is difficult to move.

Only one person can move along it at once, it is difficult to carry large objects up or down. That is why many building codes do not allow the use of a spiral as the main entrance to a full-sized second floor.

Arched

The arched staircase is the pinnacle of elegance and the first image that comes to mind is the thought of a royal person descending along it. The steps are wedge-shaped, but due to the shape of the arc, the narrowing of the steps is not so noticeable.

Arched staircase between hotel floors

Due to the elegant appearance of the arch, it is often located in the lobby of expensive hotels and inns. This is the way to decorate the room, which is worth choosing when you are looking for a central composition or first impression of the house. The disadvantage of this design is that it is the most difficult to plan and build, since all its details (including handrails) must be bent.

Bifurcated

Marble T-shaped staircase in the hall

The grandest version of the split staircase is the style of the famous staircase on the Titanic. It includes one wide span, which then forks into two small spans running in opposite directions.

Alternative

Owners of small houses are desperate for even the smallest additional square meter to become effective. Therefore, compact models are being used more and more, along with the growth of small and more practical home projects. An alternative way is essentially a stepladder, which happens with a removable design.

Foldable staircase to the second floor or attic

Despite environmental friendliness and responsible design, compact models have many drawbacks. This is extremely uncomfortable and not at all ergonomic. Its compactness is ensured by security and easy access. The compact ladder cannot be used in the main role, as it is not strong enough. It is used in rooms where there is not much movement.

At this stage, you should have an idea of ​​which type is best for your home. Now you can start thinking about how to use the space that will be created as part of this function.

What design to choose?

Moving to the second floor should be designed so that it corresponds to the lifetime of the object. It serves as a key element that provides convenience in the house, so it is worth considering whether your house will work better if you change the position of the stairs. Demolishing walls between rooms, expanding or changing the purpose of a room can mean a change in direction of movement. When planning, think about which room it will be most appropriate to place.

Minimalism style staircase

Design Tips:

1. With an open layout, the flight of stairs can be visible throughout the space, so you can make it a feature.
2. Cantilever flight of stairs has steps supported by a hidden stringer in the wall and look as if they are floating in the air to create a light, open look.
3. A spiral or curved flight of stairs gives an instant wow factor, but works best in a large space. Spirals flow around the central pole and are good for small spaces, but they can be uncomfortable to use for children, elderly or frail people.
4. Concrete stairwells may be cheaper at the design stage, but in the end they can cost more than wood and steel, due to problems with casting and precision.
5. Wood and steel spans are a popular combination. They can be made with millimeter precision, designed for open stairs. Concrete, steel spans can be lined with wood, stone or marble, and you will want to consider stairs made of MDF if you are going to make such flooring.
6. Wood has a natural warmth and beauty, and there are many brands and finishes to choose from for steps and handrails. Hardwood rails are more expensive than softwood, but they are more durable and tactile.
7. Glass balustrades convey illumination well, but dust and fingerprints are more visible. Check how the glass will be fixed on the handrails - the custom design will not have visible fasteners. Two types of glass are commonly used — standard glass with a slightly green tint and more expensive low-carbon glass with excellent optical quality and a reduced shade.
8. In Georgian times, the stairways were slim and elegant, and a similar effect could be achieved using a steel frame.
9. Stairs from the modernist era were distinguished by living bends and balustrades inspired by nature, such as iron flowers, leaves, and tendrils.
10. The Art Deco style signaled a transition to a more stable and massive construction with sharp, strong lines.

The original design of massive stairs

The project of the flight of stairs and installation works have increased safety requirements, therefore comply with building codes and standards.

Creative designs of designers

In addition to reliable functionality and relevant design in the stairs is an architectural highlight. This way of transforming the house does not get tired to surprise.

Interesting patterns and texture, unusual colors, the tendency to use fabrics - designers' approach to the design of the stairs is often special, they love it so much. Look at their projects and ideas that will make your own ladder more talented.

Colored tread and risers

Multi-colored steps - a bright accent in the interior

One trend has earned the popularity of recent years - the allocation of tread using color. Previously, people tried to combine their stairs with their surroundings, but now many homeowners, on the contrary, are trying to isolate the stairs and set it apart.

To achieve this effect, an ombr or gradient color scheme is acceptable. Ombre means that the colors start with a darker one and end with a lighter color or vice versa. Gradient has the same structure, but can successfully combine different shades.The picture of each riser differs in shade for an interesting and personalized look. Choose a paint in which you can add beige or white. Some paint shops even offer to make different shades for you.

Attractive ornaments

Painting or using mosaic patterns makes a very significant statement. These effects provide good examples for unique ladders. Stick to the same color palette throughout the design.

Staircase with gold smalt mosaic

Take a look at the adjacent rooms for inspiration. Use stripes, chevrons, geometric shapes, polka dots, and any shape that seems fun and unique. If you are thinking of using paint, use masking tape to mask the area before starting to paint.

Actively use stencils or stickers with increased wear resistance. The great thing about stickers is that they can be removed, which makes them convenient for renting a house.

Decorating the stairs with stickers

Be original and unique

You can find a lot of interesting staircase design ideas in magazines, interior sites. However, besides the inspiration they create for you, you should strive to ensure that your ideas reflect your unique personality and the existing design of your home. There are many tricks to customize the design for you.

Pure wooden staircase designs have a nostalgic look, especially when combined with vintage accessories. Using the technique of artificial aging of material and paint, the staircase can create space, as if you moved in time.

Massive wooden staircase

Another option is a padding tread, risers durable fabric. It will add softness to a hard surface. Feel free to use bright, colorful fabrics, carpets.

Make sure that any fabric you put on the surface is properly fixed to prevent the new decor from becoming traumatic. A unique flight of stairs makes bright colors, subtle patterns.

Storage under the stairs

Storage under the flight of stairs is another successful way to profitably use the space and make it unique. Under it you can usually get quite a lot of space. Creative designs with a non-standard view of storage look win-win and always have a huge practical advantage. As soon as you create the stairs the way you want, immediately focus on the space below. These original storage ideas are creative, helpful, helping you keep your home free from clutter and allowing you to access the things you need every day.

Shoe storage

This is a really great way to use your storage under a flight of stairs. It can improve the decor, the efficiency of the space in the house. Use this idea to stop the endless disputes of home about the need to remove your shoes - just find a place for her away from her eyes. You can come up with a lot of different functions for this, from the rack to the boxes.

The staircase to the second floor can be practically used.

Boxes under the steps

Place the drawers under the steps for storage and enjoy the look. These boxes will not only be useful, but also add an unusual touch of personality. This is a very organized form of storage, with zones for different things.

Kitchen pantry under the staircase

Kitchen belongings, products with a long shelf life often interfere, do not fit in the kitchen. They can be positioned under a flight of stairs — a space that can have one of the best uses for this. Unusual shape can make ordinary storage rather complicated. Make convenient shelves for storing dry foods.It will be easy to get access to them, besides having a spacious storage room in the main part of the house is very convenient.

Library under the staircase, a place to read

Mini-library under the stairs

The cozy and secretive nature of the space under your staircase can make it one of the best places to read in privacy. If your design is open, the idea will work especially well, since you will have light access to the reading area.

Install bookshelves and a cozy chair (or ottoman) to make it a suitable place to read.

Open

Open stairways are very minimalist, modern. Their sober, rather stern look helps to visually open the room. This option brings a very refreshing look to the space.

Open staircase with rungs

Wooden

Wooden stairways look classically even with an unusual design, they work in almost any room. However, a lot depends on the type of wood you choose. Make sure that the tree is sealed and properly processed before it is installed so that the finished structure will last a long time.

Tile decoration

For a more exotic, personalized look, try using hand-painted tiles. The variety of tiles available ensures that you can customize the stairs in almost any way: with a neutral or colorful, matte or glossy surface, or any combination. Try combining different patterns for an interesting and eclectic look.

Tile staircase trim

Glass

For a modern design, install a glass staircase. This style allows you to use the maximum amount of light in the room. Combine glass with a finished wood or steel to give it a bit of texture.

Carpet covering

Warm, soft and easy to touch, the carpet is a great choice for a home with children. These stairs will never be slippery and warm, even in the cold season. This is a great choice for any style in the house. The different types and colors of carpet available in the market ensure that you have many stylistic options.

Carpet for stairs

6 designs for concrete

Concrete is widely used for buildings, houses and architecture, as well as stairs, because of its durability and accessibility. Most people prefer to use concrete, because it can withstand the operation much longer than any other materials used in construction. For stairs, concrete can be used in any form or design that a homeowner wants. Designers and homeowners increasingly prefer concrete for stairs or walkways, because it creates both simple straight constructions and screw models.

As a rule, various types of concrete stairs include:

• team ladder;
• cast;
• resting on the floor;
• outboard.

Regardless of the type of concrete structure for the staircase, its form and style always bring elegance and refinement to the house.

Concrete staircase in the manufacturing process

Look at these 6 ideas for beautiful concrete stairs that add elegance and elegance to your home. Some of them are made with the addition of marble, while others are purely concrete. Just take a look and be inspired by these projects so that you can choose the one that suits you.

Interesting projects

1. Floating concrete steps on an open-type staircase will create an inconsistent feeling that cold, untreated concrete “floats” in the air. The addition of a metal railing sharpens the original feeling and emphasizes the simplicity of the seeming construction, without hiding, however engineering skills.
2. A straight staircase of a closed type, “as in the stairwell,” can also create an exquisite exterior for this room, if this project is connected to a Loft design, interestingly designed ceiling and the presence of multifaceted local lighting. Charming and simple idea that looks beautiful.
3. Open concrete steps in combination with glass railing create a simple but beautiful color combination and contrast with the design. Such structures should be supported by strong walls that contain the main fastener, invisible to the eye and providing the favorite effect of "soaring in the air".
4. An alternative to untreated concrete is marble: use it for semi-circular streamlined structures with no corners. Glass balustrades and wooden handrails will optimally fit into this design.
5. For lovers of minimalist design fit concrete stairs - it will be the embodiment of your outlook on life, because in minimalist design there are a huge number of forms for raw concrete, which looks just amazing. Combine your staircase with glass and wooden railings. Neutral colors will give the design a simple but attractive property.
6. Marble with metal is another advanced combination, which is important primarily for stairs. Marble should be streamlined, not contain sharp corners. Perhaps your staircase will have streamlined marble steps, a screw design and cold stainless steel handrails in a minimalist manner to emphasize the structure and color of the stone in contrast.

Marble staircase with metal railings

As shown above, these stairs are really beautiful to contemplate. There are simple, sophisticated and elegant layouts. This is a new look at concrete and undoubtedly the concept will be spread.

Console structures

The impact of the stairs on the interior design of the house is enormous. Unsuccessful design can spoil the whole look and feel of the house. The correct construction will become a “design anchor” around which all the other elements of interior decoration will line up.

The cantilever staircase stands apart from all other types of stairs, creating the illusion of floating, unsupported and weightless steps. She manages to be minimalist and at the same time creates a huge impact and offers a huge variety in terms of configurations and materials.

Cantilever staircase with glowing steps

Concept

In recent years, the design of the staircase has emerged and quickly grown, which has an unusual architectural form, called "console". The console is a beam, fixed only at one end, which allows the protruding structure to hang without any visible binding or support.

The simplified design of the console, previously used for buildings, bridges, and airplanes, was moved for ladders to create various “floating” steps.

Minimalistic staircase in the living room

The transition from a standard ladder to one that does not need visible support is beneficial in that it creates an open space that demonstrates a unique “soaring” look, extremely aesthetic.

Floating structure

Floating design due to its structure. Because of its nature, it is imperative that the wall with which it is connected is sufficiently strong and reliable to withstand the load. Console installations are available in the following types:

• straight;
• L-shaped;
• spiral;

Stairs to the second floor in a small house

• curved.

Along with the majority of architectural projects, the choice of materials for the console stairs is close to infinity. One of the most common new styles includes wood, glass and stainless steel. Using glass balustrades creates space inside the house, allowing more light to enter the room.

Glass console staircase with light

Obey safety regulations

The choice of material must comply with safety standards, but ever-changing fashion trends in architecture allow you to put completely different materials on top of the steel base - for example, you can choose LED steps that will glow from within.

Recently there has been a sharp increase in interest in raw materials such as steel and concrete. In addition to these materials, people combine them with colored leather or eco-leather handrails to create a bold statement.

The combination of different materials and lighting in the design of the stairs

Achieving the right performance of this particular staircase design is more than just aesthetics. Considering the various technical components and design elements, it is necessary that proven designs are selected, and the work is entrusted to an installer with the necessary experience and knowledge.

How is this possible?

Although they seem to defy gravity, cantilever ladders are certainly supported — albeit in a way that hides all fixtures.

Installation of a concrete cantilever ladder

The prostheses that make up the ladder are attached either to a rope attached to or inside the wall, or to a metal frame or pockets in the wall. There are several ways in which this is done, depending on the project and the method approved by the supplier.

One of the most working methods is based on the fact that the stage is installed or fixed in a solid wall. Sometimes a reinforcing sheet is also required. In the case of steel reinforced concrete walls, prefabricated "anchor pockets" are usually installed in the wall before concrete is poured.

However, in modern assemblies, studs are often used with steel strings, base plates and "anchor pockets" installed before plastering the wall inside the floor and the wall to support the steps. Finally, it is often necessary to distribute the weight of the steps, supporting them on one side with a frame inside the wall, and on the other side with a handrail or a glass balustrade.

What are they made of?

The combination of glass and wood in the design of the console stairs

Cantilever stairs offer tremendous design possibilities. Popular material choices include:

Obviously, the material you choose will affect the way you support, and some materials, such as hardwood and stone, are heavier than others. Your choice of material will also affect the cost of the stairs - wood tends to be cheaper than glass, although wood is different.

disadvantages

Lack of cantilever stairs - no fencing

The console ladder has a significant disadvantage - it can be installed only with a major overhaul. It is easiest to install at an early stage of designing a house. Moreover, installation in an existing building can be destructive given the necessary structural support.

Fastening console stairs to the wall

Cantilever stairs - safety?

Although cantilever stairs are often admired for their ability to float in the air, many people are concerned about their safety and how they will comply with building codes.

Regarding the stability of the steps - they are satisfied with the minimum requirements in terms of the fact that they contain a sufficient number of fasteners for internal fastening of stairs, but most people are concerned about the lack of handrails.

Glass staircase with console fastening to the wall

According to safety rules, spans should have a railing at least on one side if they are less than one meter wide, and on both sides if they are more than one meter wide.Handrails next to the two lower steps of the stairs are not needed. The minimum height of the handrails should be 900 mm. Also, according to building codes, there should be no holes in the balustrade, with a diameter greater than 100 mm.

Therefore, for console structures, it may be appropriate, perhaps, to install a solid glass screen as a balustrade that will meet the requirements and minimalist design.

Console ladder with glass screen

Be sure to check how well your ladder fits building registries, and consider the security risk if you have young children.

Benefits

The cost of a cantilevered ladder will depend heavily on individual requirements, materials and sizes. According to experts, they are usually more expensive than the standard straight span, but less expensive than the spiral design.

The combination of forging, wood and carpet in the design of the stairs

Designing a new staircase usually means limited access between floors during construction. However, in the case of a cantilever staircase, temporary steps can be installed in place to facilitate access.