While the humble staircase is vital to connecting the floors within a multi-level home, over recent years trends have advanced passed mere functionality and staircases are now routinely featured in 2-storey homes as a striking focal point, making an architecturally inspired statement of style. Innovation in building approach and materials are a major factor in this.
When deciding how to feature the staircase in your brand new 2-storey home, take some time to think about the overall style you are wishing to achieve throughout and ensure the materials chosen for the staircase are complimentary ie chrome balustrading and glass would be out of place in a Hamptons style home, where stained or painted timber would be an ideal choice. Ideally you’d be looking to create a feature that feels inviting, especially if the staircase is located towards the entry of your home, or within the entertaining area.
Overall there are different materials used in the construction of stairs such as timber, brick, steel and concrete. With InVogue, generally engineered concrete is the top choice. It is crucial your stairs can carry the required load, and engineered concrete offers this at a reasonable price point. Your design and building consultant will be able to advise you on a suitable option for your particular home design.
Aside from materials, there are also different staircase designs to choose from. Popular choices currently include straight, U-shaped and L-shaped stairs. The design is dependent on your available space and will be an early conversation with your 2-storey builder when designing your home.
Lighting is integral to the overall effect and significantly contributes to ambiance. Some new trending ideas include illuminated handrails and treadlights. But for a timeless look chandeliers and staircases pair as perfectly as wine and cheese. And chandeliers have experienced their own transformation over the years, there are many options from traditional, to modern and everything in between.
Besides being a statement piece, when closed in staircases can be a very savvy storage solution with an abundance of options available to utilise the space in your home. The space underneath a closed-in staircase can be built to be used as an extra powder room, a European style laundry or drying room – don’t forget to properly vent, a coat room or you can simply insert some shelving and use to store seasonal items such as outdoor cushions, your Christmas tree and decorations, or irregularly used toys.
A more open staircase is definitely not wasted space though, and there are many opportunities to maximise the square meterage in your new 2-storey home. You could install a desk and allocate as a study space, add a cushioned bench and lamp for a cosy reading nook, wine storage, or this could be a designated snoozing spot for your furry family member. Style in-line with the wider area for a cohesive finish.
If you’re looking to create your perfect 2-storey home, a home ideal for you and your family which includes a focal feature staircase, an impressive elevation, luxurious master suite, and with space for enjoyable family living then look no further than InVogue, Perth’s leader in 2-Storey living.
Do you want to explore more? We’ve arranged a collection of spectacular feature staircases for you to scroll through at your leisure. Your new home inspiration is just a scroll away. Or feel free to contact us or phone 9202 9202 to speak with a senior consultant.
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