How to Design the Perfect Staircase for Your Home: A Step-by-Step Guide

In a double storey home the staircase is a focal point. A comprehensive guide to planning, functionality, style, materials and budget.

No obligation. A consultant will call to discuss your needs.

Key Takeaways

  • Decide early whether the staircase is a feature or hidden.
  • Plan for practicality, including moving furniture between levels.
  • Style, materials, finishes and structure all drive the cost.
When building a double storey home, a critical element that often becomes a focal point is the staircase. Many people overlook it as simply a necessary structure and miss the impact it can make aesthetically. To help you make the best decisions, here is a comprehensive step-by-step guide to designing a staircase that complements your new home perfectly.

Explore double storey home designs, or discuss a custom staircase with our team.

Plan your spaces

In the initial stages of your plan, consider whether you want the staircase to be a feature or hidden from view. What do you want to see when you walk in the front door, a long hallway, a welcoming living space or a grand entry with an eye-catching staircase? A staircase dictates spaces downstairs and heavily influences the upstairs layout, so decide what matters most to you early.

Does the functionality meet your needs?

One of the biggest hurdles when moving homes is getting furniture from one level to another. A narrow staircase can make that couch far harder to move than it looked in the shop. Plan your spaces for practicality, and think about where you want the staircase most accessible so it suits the flow of your home and the way you want to live.

Optimise your spaces

Depending on your home's footprint, space optimisation can help you get the most from every area. If you are prioritising storage, consider building in under your staircase, or a study nook may serve you better. In some cases a toilet can even fit under the stairs, so your options are wide open.

Define your style, materials and budget

There is a mountain of styles to choose from, from traditional and ornate to ultra-modern. The overall style of the home will usually guide the choice. A Hampton-themed home might suit a timber staircase with white risers and timber treads, while a modern home might lean towards a mono stringer with open risers and glass or metal balustrade. Materials play a big part, and prices range massively depending on the finished product, so voice your ideas to your consultant early to gauge the cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a staircase cost?

The price of staircases can range massively depending on the finished product. Style, materials, finishes and structure all play a role, so voice your ideas to your consultant early to get a gauge on how much you may need to spend.

How do I get started with Ownit Homes?

Call our team on (07) 3343 4244, visit a display centre in Hendra, Rochedale, Redland Bay or Springfield Rise, or send an enquiry through our contact page. We build across Greater Brisbane and the Gold Coast.