Rise and Shine: The Most Popular Staircase Photos of 2016
These designs climbed to the top of the list of Houzzer favorites this year
Step right up! Houzzers were drawn to a wide variety of staircase styles in 2016. Designs included staircases that were curved, squared-off, front and center, tucked to the side, crafted of hardwood, and accentuated with runners. Many kinds of railings were represented as well — classic wood spindles, steel cable rails, ornate wrought iron balustrades, carved bannisters and glass guardrails all appear in the top 10. Art, millwork, lighting and furnishings around the stairs rose to the occasion too. In reverse order, these are the most popular staircase photos uploaded and saved to ideabooks in 2016. Which one would you enjoy climbing the most?
10. This curved staircase was part of a renovation that transformed the entry wall. A wrought iron railing and hand-scraped hickory flooring with a gray wash make it one of the most important architectural elements in this home.
9. This contemporary staircase blends right in with the stunning accent wall, composed of 2-by-2-inch, 3-by-7-inch and 1-by-6-inch pieces of walnut. The idea was inspired by a wall the designer had seen in a midcentury modern home that had always stuck with her.
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Read more about this home
8. Classic wainscoting, an elegant handrail and a geometric runner grace this traditional staircase. The contrast of light and dark freshens up the look, giving it versatile transitional style.
7. A modern metal railing and a neutral color palette make this stairwell a good spot to display brightly colored art. Note the limestone border at the edge of the floor.
6. This staircase, a key architectural element in this home’s gut renovation, makes a big statement. Not only is the thick wooden zigzag the first thing you see when you enter the house, but it’s also in full view of the dining room and living room. A glass handrail puts the focus on the sculptural stairs themselves.
Read more about this home
Read more about this home
5. Conversely, this staircase is tucked away, reminiscent of the way Thomas Jefferson treated staircases at Monticello. Handsome sphere-bedecked newel posts, a dark stain and a runner complete with elegant stair rods captured the attention of many Houzzers.
Learn more about stair runners
Learn more about stair runners
4. This ornate wrought iron railing drew Houzzers to this photo. The graceful curve of the staircase provides an alcove for a round-topped table. The way the entryway is decorated gives it Art Deco style, but this railing could also work with a Mediterranean design.
3. Beautiful wood is the key to warming up contemporary design. The heft of each one of these chunky treads contrasted with the metal stringers makes you stop and ponder the engineering.
2. Another ornate iron railing captured many Houzz users’ attention, but this time, the alcove contains a built-in seat and tufted upholstery that runs all the way up the wall. It seems like the perfect perch for a modern-day Marie Antoinette.
1. The Greek key pattern is a classic that will never go out of style. Surely it played a big role in making this staircase photo the most popular one of 2016. Wainscoting, a mix of wood and white, and a view clear through from the front of the house to the back were also winning factors.
More: Key Measurements for a Heavenly Stairway
More: Key Measurements for a Heavenly Stairway