Choosing Paint to Bring Out the Detail of Your Staircase

If you have a two story home, you know that the staircase plays an integral part in utilizing all areas of the home. For most of us, a staircase is just that, a means to get from point A to point B. 

But did you know that your stairs can play another role other than the utilitarian one? They can be a key component of the aesthetics to your entryway. The stairs, railing, and balusters can become a pleasing addition to the entryway if painted properly. 

Staircase 101 

A staircase is a whole lot more than just steps leading to another level. The steps, railings and overall architecture of your staircase can add to the decor of your home. 

Let’s review the parts of a staircase that you will need to know in order to choose the right paint or stain to bring out the beauty of your hallway. 

According to stair experts at Lapeyre Stair, “Staircases come in all different shapes and styles from simple, straight staircases to circular staircases designed to make a grand architectural statement.” 

No matter how ornate or ordinary your stairs are, they all have some basic parts. The

(Source: Lapeyre Stair) 

The tread of a staircase is the horizontal part of the stairs that you put your feet on. The riser is perpendicular to this piece of the stair and is sometimes called the kickboard due to the fact that your feet hit this board on occasion. 

The handrail is often called the bannister and is usually a contrasting color with the balusters that are the vertical posts to which the bannister is attached. 

The landing is the flat flooring at the top and bottom of a staircase that serves as a resting place and provides access to rooms. A landing can also be part of the staircase where it makes a turn.

Color Combos For Stairs & Railings 

When most homeowners start thinking about sprucing up their staircases they get overwhelmed thinking about the potential color combinations. Black and white? Wood stain? Neutrals?

If you are looking to break out of the typical white riser, black railing, and white balusters, here are a few ideas to spice up your entryway. 

One area where homeowners are beginning to realize they can play with color is on the riser part of the stairs. This small area is a great spot for a pop of color or a pattern that can break up the monotony of any stairwell.

Notice the example below from Country Living for a painted riser that can make a soft but cozy statement. 

(Source: Country Living) 

Railings can also be painted or stained to match your home’s decor. Black is a natural choice for many, but gray railings are becoming a trend that allows for a neutral look that is softer and lighter than a heavy black. (Image Source: Pinterest) 

Finally, if you really want to break with the tradition of white or stained baluster’s check out this example of colorful balusters making a true statement in this home.

(Source: Delux Decorating) 

No matter what your color scheme, Jerry Enos Painting can help your project come out looking aesthetically pleasing and professionally done. Talk to us today about your stairwell paint project. 

Categorised in: Interior painting, Jerry Enos