Top Tips for Choosing a New Staircase

A staircase is an essential element of most properties, as it enables you to get from one floor to another. However, it doesn't just have a practical side, and a staircase can add to the design element of a property, making a considerable difference to how it looks and feels.

When you're choosing a design and style for your new staircase, there are a number of elements that you need to consider even before you start talking to a staircase designer.

Budget

Bespoke staircases can be manufactured to suit a variety of budgets, but it's essential that you know how much you have available so that your designer can work within this. The budget you have will also impact on the type of materials that you can choose from, as well as the complexity of the design.

Space

Space will be a determining factor in the style of staircase that can be installed, as some designs will take up more floor area, whereas others, such as a spiral staircase, are suited to compact spaces. As well as the space on the lower floor, you also need to consider where the opening will be and how this will affect the upper floor.

Safety

The safety of your staircase is an important aspect of the planning process and one that your staircase designer will work on with you. Building regulations have certain criteria that must be met by new staircases. These are in place to improve safety standards, including minimum widths and maximum depths of the treads, as well as a maximum gap in the balustrades to prevent children becoming stuck.

Usage

You should think about how the stairs are used in your home, as this could have a bearing on the style that you choose. For instance, if you have children or are elderly, hand rails and a good-sized landing will enhance the safety features.

Materials

Staircases can be manufactured from a number of different materials, depending on the finished look that you want to achieve. Your staircase designer can offer some suggestions, including glass, timber and steel, and you need to think about issues such as maintenance, durability and cost when you're coming to your decision.

The Design

Once you have established the basic elements, including the budget, how the stairs will be used and the type of materials you'd prefer, you can begin choosing the design that you'd like for your staircase. This could include a traditional straight staircase, a curved style or a spiral staircase, as well as simple designs and more elaborate bespoke styles. A professional design company will be able to offer recommendations on which style will best suit your particular property and your needs so that you can settle on a design that meets these.

Finishing Touches

The additional elements of your staircase, including the handrails and balustrades, can make a big difference to the design. These can be manufactured from the same material as the staircase, or you could use complementary textures to create a different look.