Styling your staircase is a great way to bring some character and personality into your home. Take a look at these 10 stair wallpaper ideas to see how you can transform your plain and often overlooked stairwell into a stunning and eye-catching area that captures the true essence of your home.
Before you think that stair wallpaper is only for those who have been blessed with grand and classic interiors, think again. There are designs and combinations to suit every style and taste, from classic and timeless to contemporary and bold. Incorporating wallpaper into your staircase is a brilliant way to create a decorative feature that adds a touch of history and design to your home.
One idea to consider is using nature-inspired designs that bring the outdoors into your living space. Imagine walking up a flight of stairs framed by beautifully painted flowers and an array of calming colors. This not only creates a feeling of serenity and calm, but also adds a touch of nature to your home.
If you’re looking to make a statement, why not consider a panoramic mural that covers your stairwell from top to bottom? This can create a real wow factor and make your staircase the focal point of your home. With so many designs and styles to choose from, you’re sure to find one that perfectly captures the scene you want to bring into your home.
Whether you choose a mural, a nature-inspired design, or a classic pattern, stair wallpaper is a great way to add interest and intrigue to your staircase. It’s a simple and cost-effective way to transform a plain and often forgotten area into a beautifully decorated space that will make you smile every time you walk up or down your stairs.
Stair wallpaper ideas
When it comes to staircase decor, wallpaper is a classic choice that can add both style and interest to your stairwell. Whether you have a contemporary or traditional staircase, wallpaper can bring a new level of visual intrigue to your space.
Classic prints
One of the most popular options for stair wallpaper is classic prints. From stripes to floral designs, there are many traditional patterns that can create a timeless and elegant look for your staircase. These prints work well in both formal and casual settings, and they can be used to create a statement wall or to cover the entire staircase.
Contemporary designs
If you’re looking for something more modern, contemporary wallpaper designs offer a fresh and stylish option. From abstract prints to geometric patterns, there are endless possibilities to choose from. These designs can add a bold and unique touch to your staircase, making it a focal point in your home.
Neutral colors
Neutral-colored wallpapers are a great choice if you want to create a calm and serene atmosphere in your staircase. These colors can help to visually enlarge the space and make it feel more open. They also provide a versatile backdrop that can easily be paired with other decorative elements in your stairwell.
Printed scenes
If you want to make a real statement with your staircase wallpaper, consider using printed scenes. These wallpapers often feature intricate details and vivid colors that can create a stunning visual effect. From panoramic landscapes to city scenes, there are endless possibilities to choose from.
Decorative details
In addition to traditional prints and contemporary designs, there are also wallpapers that capture decorative details. From intricate motifs to toiles, these wallpapers can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your staircase. They often showcase historical scenes and can be a great way to add a touch of vintage charm to your space.
Using wallpaper in your staircase
When using wallpaper in your staircase, there are a few things to consider. Before you start, make sure to properly prepare the walls by cleaning and smoothing them. Then, measure the height and width of each wall and cut the wallpaper accordingly.
It’s also important to think about the overall look and feel you want to achieve. If you’re looking for a more polished and formal look, choose wallpapers with neutral colors and classic prints. If you want to create a more eclectic and artistic look, consider using bold and eye-catching designs.
Finally, don’t be afraid to mix and match different wallpapers to create a unique and personalized look. You can use different prints or colors on each level of the staircase, or combine wallpaper with paint or other materials for a layered effect.
Stair wallpaper is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your personal style and bring a new level of intrigue to your living spaces. Whether you choose classic prints, contemporary designs, or intricate scenes, the right wallpaper can transform your staircase into a true work of art.
So, if you’re looking for a way to refresh your staircase and make a statement, consider using wallpaper. With so many designs and colors to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect wallpaper that will bring new life to your stairwell.
1 Bring the outside in with bespoke mural
One way to add interest and intrigue to your staircase is by bringing the outside in with a bespoke mural. The walls of stairwells and staircases are often overlooked when it comes to design, but they can be a prime area to showcase eye-catching and unique artwork.
When designing a mural for your staircase, think about the materials, colors, and themes that will complement your interiors. You might opt for a classic white design that adds a touch of calm to the space, or you could go for something more bold and vibrant to make a statement.
A bespoke mural allows you to create a scene that is truly unique to your home. You could choose to depict a nature-inspired scene, such as a field of wildflowers or a lush forest. Alternatively, you could opt for a more timeless design, such as toiles or blackwell prints.
Ruth Greene, the editor at Stair Wallpaper Ideas, suggests bringing the beauty of nature into your home with a bespoke mural. “A mural can bring the outside in, creating a sense of space and tranquility,” she says. “Whether you’re looking to add a touch of nature to your staircase or to showcase a favorite landscape, a bespoke mural is a brilliant idea.”
By adding a bespoke mural to your staircase, you can not only bring nature into your home but also transform your stairs into a work of art. The mural will be a focal point that draws the eye and adds visual interest to the space.
So, if you’re looking for a way to add intrigue and beauty to your staircase, why not consider a bespoke mural? Whether you choose a scene from nature or a different artistic style, a mural is sure to add a touch of creativity and personality to your home.
2 Add classic elegance with a refreshed toile design
When it comes to bringing a touch of classic elegance to your staircase, a refreshed toile design is an excellent choice. This traditional print adds a timeless feel to any space, and the stairwell is no exception. No matter what your style or the size of your staircases, a toile wallpaper can create a brilliant focal point.
Toile designs often showcase scenes from nature, with intricate details and panoramic views. Whether you opt for a toile print that features bold colors or stick to a more subtle palette, it will bring a sense of sophistication to your stairwell.
“Toile is a design that works well in both traditional and contemporary spaces,” says Living Etc editor Bethan Ryder. “What’s great about toile is that it can bring another dimension to stairwells, which are often overlooked in terms of design.”
One of the advantages of using toile wallpaper in your staircase is that it can add privacy. While stairs are often open to the rest of the living spaces, a toile design can create a sense of separation and frame the stairs as a separate area. It can also provide a feeling of warmth and coziness.
Whether you choose a toile design with scenes of gardens, historical stories, or even petunias, the possibilities for creating a stunning stairwell are endless. So, if you’re looking to add a touch of elegance and intrigue to your stairs, consider the classic beauty of a toile wallpaper.
3 Use wallpaper to make a feature of a staircase
If you want to bring some extra interest and intrigue to your staircase, using wallpaper can be a great idea. Wallpaper is a versatile design element that can add texture, pattern, and color to any space, including the often overlooked area of the stairs. By using wallpaper on your staircase, you can transform it from a functional element into a stylish feature that showcases your personal taste and style.
One design idea is to use wallpaper that captures the natural beauty of gardens and flowers. For example, Little Greene offers a lovely mural wallpaper called “Petunias” which beautifully combines different types and colors of flowers. This mural can be used across the entire stair area, creating a panoramic view that brings nature into your home.
For those who prefer a more traditional look, you can use period-style wallpapers that have a historical reference. For instance, the latest collection from Blackwell offers a range of wallpapers inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement. These wallpapers feature intricate designs and rich colors that will add elegance and sophistication to your staircase.
If you want to create a contemporary and open feel, you can use wallpapers with a more minimalist and modern design. Mottershead’s collection of wallpapers has some great options for those looking for a clean and sleek look. Their wallpapers often feature bold patterns or striking colors that will bring a touch of drama to your staircase.
One of the advantages of using wallpaper on your staircase is that it can also provide privacy. If you have open stairs and want to create a more intimate feel, using opaque or semi-opaque wallpaper can help you achieve that. This way, you can still enjoy the natural light coming through the stair area without sacrificing privacy.
When choosing wallpaper for your staircase, it’s important to consider the existing decor and styling of your home. You want the wallpaper to complement the other elements in the space and create a cohesive look. Look for wallpapers that have colors or patterns that can be echoed in other rooms or areas of your home to tie everything together.
In conclusion, using wallpaper on your staircase can be a great way to add interest and intrigue to a often overlooked area of your home. Whether you choose a traditional, contemporary, or nature-inspired design, wallpaper can transform your staircase into a striking feature that showcases your personal style.
4 Choose versatile stripes for a timeless feel
When it comes to adding interest and intrigue to your staircase, choosing a timeless design is always a safe bet. One option that never goes out of style is stripes. Whether your staircase is located in a historic home or a contemporary space, stripes can complement any style.
One of the advantages of using stripes is that they can create a sense of movement and rhythm in a space. This makes them an excellent choice for stairwells, where they can add visual interest to an often overlooked area. By using stripes on your staircase, you can create a dynamic and engaging focal point that draws the eye in.
When selecting stripe patterns, consider the colors and materials already present in your home. Stripes come in many different combinations, from bold and vibrant to subtle and neutral. Think about how you want the stripes to interact with the existing decor and color scheme of your home.
If you want to create a calm and serene atmosphere, consider using soft and subtle stripes in neutral colors. This can create a feeling of tranquility and peacefulness in your stairwell. On the other hand, if you want to add a pop of color and energy, opt for bold and vibrant stripes in eye-catching hues. This can create a sense of excitement and liveliness in your staircase.
Another option for using stripes in your stairwell is to incorporate prints and patterns. Consider using striped wallpapers that feature floral or nature-inspired prints. This can add a touch of whimsy and bring a little bit of the outdoors inside.
Whether you choose a traditional striped pattern or a more contemporary design, using stripes on your staircase can be a great way to add interest and intrigue to your home. The versatility of stripes allows them to work well with any style, from classic to modern. With so many options available, you’re sure to find a stripe design that beautifully captures your personal style and enhances your staircase.
So why not consider adding some stripes to your stairwell today? It’s a simple and cost-effective way to update the look of your staircase and give it a timeless feel that will never go out of style.
5 Soften stairwell wallpaper with complementary paint colors
- When it comes to stairwells, wallpaper can be a great choice for adding interest and intrigue to the space. However, sometimes the bold prints and eye-catching designs of wallpaper can be a bit overwhelming. That’s where complementary paint colors can come in handy. By pairing the right paint colors with your stairwell wallpaper, you can soften the look of the space and create a more cohesive design.
- Start by taking a look at the colors in your wallpaper. Identify the main colors and think about what other colors might work well with them. For example, if your wallpaper features bold stripes in shades of blue and white, consider using a soft blue or a crisp white paint color on the surrounding walls. This will help to tie the space together and create a harmonious look.
- In some homes, the staircase itself can be the star of the show. If you have a beautiful staircase with intricate details and a timeless style, you may want to let it take center stage. In this case, consider using a neutral paint color on the walls surrounding the staircase. This will allow the staircase to shine and be the focus of attention.
- If your stairwell wallpaper features a mural or a panoramic design that captures a beautiful scene, you can use paint colors that complement the colors in the mural. For example, if your mural depicts a garden full of vibrant flowers, consider using a soft green or a pale pink paint color on the surrounding walls. This will help to bring the garden theme into the rest of the stairwell area, creating a cohesive and inviting space.
- When choosing paint colors to complement your stairwell wallpaper, it’s a good idea to bring samples of the wallpaper with you to the paint store. This will allow you to compare the colors and see which ones work best together. Remember, the goal is to create a harmonious and balanced look, so choose paint colors that enhance the beauty of the wallpaper rather than compete with it.
In conclusion, using complementary paint colors can soften the look of stairwell wallpaper and create a more cohesive design. Whether you want to let your staircase make a statement or bring the theme of the wallpaper into the surrounding area, choosing the right paint colors is key. So, before you start decorating your stairwell, take the time to consider how paint colors can work with your wallpaper to create a brilliant and eye-catching look.
6 Inject glamor with a metallic wallpaper
If you often find yourself looking at the blank walls of your stair area and thinking they could use a little something extra, a metallic wallpaper might be just what you need. Metallic wallpapers have been popular in interior design for centuries and can bring a touch of glamor and sophistication to any space.
The history of metallic wallpapers
Metallic wallpapers have a long history dating back to the 16th century. In those days, they were made by applying gold and silver leaf to paper, creating a luxurious and opulent look. Today, metallic wallpapers come in a wide array of colors and materials and can be used to create a variety of different effects.
Eye-catching designs
When it comes to metallic wallpapers, the possibilities are endless. From bold and eye-catching patterns to subtle and understated designs, there’s something to suit every taste and style. Whether you prefer a contemporary look or a more period-inspired design, a metallic wallpaper can bring the wow factor to your stair area.
Bringing interest to your stairs
Metallic wallpapers are a great way to add interest to your stair area. They can highlight the architectural details of your stairs, bringing them to the forefront of your design. Whether you have a modern staircase with sleek lines or a traditional staircase with ornate balustrades, a metallic wallpaper can help create a focal point that draws the eye.
Using metallic wallpapers in different ways
There are many ways to use metallic wallpapers in your stair area. You can use them to create an accent wall, showcasing a stunning metallic pattern that contrasts with the rest of your walls. Alternatively, you can use metallic wallpapers to frame your stairs, creating a sense of depth and dimension.
Making a statement with metallic wallpapers
If you want to make a bold statement with your stair area, consider using a metallic mural wallpaper. These large-scale designs can create a stunning focal point and transform your staircase into a work of art. Whether you choose a metallic wallpaper with a nature-inspired motif or a contemporary abstract design, it’s sure to make a statement.
So, if you’re looking to inject some glamor into your stair area, why not consider using a metallic wallpaper? Whether you choose a subtle design or a bold pattern, it’s sure to bring interest and intrigue to your staircase.
7 Use a ditsy nature-inspired wallpaper for a calm feel
If you’re looking to create a calm and serene atmosphere in your home, using a ditsy nature-inspired wallpaper on your staircase is a brilliant idea. These panoramic prints often feature small-scale floral patterns or scenes from nature, adding interest and a feeling of tranquility to your stairwell.
Many people prefer using neutral colors such as white or soft pastels for this kind of wallpaper, as it creates a peaceful ambiance. However, if you want to make a bolder statement, you can opt for wallpapers with darker colors or black-and-white designs.
One great example of a ditsy nature-inspired wallpaper is the “Petunias” design by Ruth Blackwell. This contemporary wallpaper showcases beautifully detailed petunias in various colors, creating a stunning visual on your staircase walls.
Another popular option is using toile prints, which often feature scenes from nature or historical events. Toiles add a classic and elegant touch to your staircase and can be found in a range of colors and designs.
Open up a world of possibilities
The great thing about using ditsy nature-inspired wallpaper on your staircase is that it allows you to create a seamless flow between different levels of your home. By choosing a wallpaper that complements the rest of your interior design, you can add a touch of continuity and unity to the space.
This also gives you the opportunity to showcase your personal style and stay up-to-date with the latest home decor trends. Whether you prefer contemporary or period-style designs, there are plenty of nature-inspired wallpapers available to suit your taste.
Before and after
If you’re unsure about how a ditsy nature-inspired wallpaper would look on your staircase, take a look at some before and after photos. These can give you a better idea of how the wallpaper transforms the space and adds a calming vibe.
Many people are amazed by the difference a nature-inspired wallpaper can make in their staircases. The eye-catching prints and beautiful patterns create a focal point in the room, turning a mundane area into a stunning feature.
Without a doubt, a ditsy nature-inspired wallpaper can bring a calm and peaceful feel to your staircase. So why wait? Start exploring the many options available and find the perfect wallpaper to enhance your space.
8 Paper half a stairwell to break up high ceilings
When it comes to decorating a staircase, sometimes the challenge is in taking advantage of the vertical space. High ceilings can create a feeling of vastness and emptiness, but with the right design, you can turn that into an opportunity to add interest and intrigue to your staircase.
One way to break up the high ceilings is to paper half of the stairwell with wallpaper. This not only adds visual interest but also helps to create a sense of scale and intimacy in the space.
When choosing wallpaper for your stairwell, consider both the design and the colors. A classic and timeless design can bring a touch of elegance, while a contemporary print can add a modern twist. You can also opt for natural materials or printed patterns, depending on the style and feel you want to create.
It’s important to frame the wallpaper correctly, as it will serve as a focal point in your stairwell. Consider using a contrasting color or pattern for the surrounding walls to make the wallpaper stand out. This also helps to create a sense of balance and harmony in the space.
When it comes to styling the rest of the stairwell, let the wallpaper be the star. Keep other elements simple and understated to allow the wallpaper to shine. A few well-chosen accessories or artwork can further showcase the design and add depth to the space.
By papering half of the stairwell, you can create a calm and inviting atmosphere in your home. The wallpaper adds texture and visual interest without overwhelming the space. It also helps to break up the high ceilings and creates a sense of coziness and warmth.
Whether you prefer a classic or contemporary look, there is a wide array of wallpaper designs to choose from. From timeless prints to the latest trends, you can find a wallpaper that captures your personal style and complements your interiors.
So, if you’re looking to add some interest and intrigue to your staircase, consider papering half of the stairwell. It’s a simple yet effective way to break up high ceilings and create a stunning focal point in your home.
July Blackwell, Editor at Petunias, says: “Papering half of the stairwell is a great design technique that can transform the look and feel of your staircase. It adds depth and personality to the space, while also creating a unique and eye-catching feature.”
9 Celebrate nature with a leafy print and woodwork
If you’re looking to bring a touch of nature into your home, why stop at the living room or the garden? The staircase is often an overlooked area when it comes to decor, but with the right choice of wallpaper, you can transform it into a stunning focal point.
A leafy print is a great option for a staircase as it adds a sense of calm and tranquility. Whether you choose a realistic forest scene or an abstract botanical pattern, a leafy print can create a connection with the natural world, bringing a sense of peace and harmony to your home.
When selecting a leafy print wallpaper for your staircase, consider the color scheme of the rest of your home. If you have white walls and neutral tones, a bold, colorful print can add a pop of color and create a vibrant focal point. On the other hand, if you prefer a more understated look, a monochromatic leafy print can add subtle detail and texture to your staircase.
Woodwork is another element that can enhance the natural feel of your staircase. A wooden handrail or balustrade adds warmth and texture, and can be a beautiful contrast to the leafy print wallpaper. Consider using a natural wood finish or painting it a complementary color. This combination of woodwork and leafy wallpaper creates a harmonious and inviting atmosphere in your stairwell.
So, whether you’re looking to create a staircase that feels like stepping into a lush forest or simply want to bring a touch of nature into your home, consider celebrating nature with a leafy print and woodwork. It’s a timeless combination that works well in both traditional and contemporary designs, capturing the beauty of the natural world in your home.
10 Use the stairs to showcase a playful paper
When it comes to stair wallpaper ideas, don’t be afraid to get creative and inject some fun into your staircase. Using the stairs as a canvas for a playful paper can create a unique and eye-catching feature in your home.
If you want to make a statement, consider choosing a wallpaper with a vibrant scene or pattern. This could be anything from a whimsical floral design to a bold geometric print. The key is to pick a wallpaper that will take your stairs from plain to interesting, and showcase your personal style.
Often, staircases are located in hallways or open areas, making them the perfect spot to showcase a decorative wallpaper. By using the stairs as a canvas, you can create a unique and eye-catching feature that draws the eye upwards. Additionally, stairwells are often overlooked when it comes to styling, so this is a great opportunity to add some personality and make your stairs stand out.
If you’re unsure where to start, think about the overall style and color scheme of your home. You’ll want to choose a wallpaper that complements the existing decor and creates a cohesive look. Traditional staircases often benefit from classic wallpaper designs, while contemporary homes can handle more colorful and modern prints.
Another idea is to create a mural on your stairs. Murals are a great way to add interest and intrigue to your staircase, as they can tell stories and create a sense of movement. You could use a mural to showcase a favorite landscape, a scene from a book or movie, or even an abstract design that sparks your imagination.
When using wallpaper on your stairs, it’s important to consider the practicalities. Make sure the paper is durable and washable, as staircases are high-traffic areas that can get dirty easily. Additionally, consider the privacy of your home. If your stairs are in a highly visible area, you may want to choose a wallpaper that provides some privacy.
There are endless options when it comes to stair wallpaper ideas, so have fun exploring the possibilities. Whether you opt for a neutral wallpaper to create a subtle backdrop, or a bold and colorful design to make a statement, using wallpaper on your stairs can transform them into a decorative feature and add a touch of personality to your interiors.
Can you wallpaper a staircase
The staircase is often an overlooked area when it comes to decorating, but it can be a fantastic canvas to showcase your creativity and add interest to your home. Wallpapering a staircase can transform the space and create a stunning focal point in your home.
Why wallpaper a staircase?
Wallpapering staircases and stairwells has become increasingly popular in recent years. It adds color, texture, and pattern to an area that is often forgotten. Wallpaper can bring a new level of interest to your staircase, creating a unique and eye-catching feature.
Choosing the right wallpaper for your staircase
When it comes to choosing wallpaper for your staircase, the options are endless. You can opt for bold patterns, delicate designs, or even scenic wallpapers that transport you to another place. The key is to choose a wallpaper that complements the overall style of your home.
Floral prints are a popular choice for staircases, as they add a touch of nature and bring a sense of the outdoors into your home. Stripes are another great option, as they can create the illusion of height and make a narrow staircase appear wider. For a contemporary look, geometric patterns or abstract designs can add a modern touch to your staircase.
Creating a cohesive look
One of the great things about wallpapering a staircase is that you can use different patterns and colors to create a unique and eclectic look. If you have a large staircase, you can create a statement by using a bold pattern or a bright color. For a more subtle look, you can choose a wallpaper that complements the colors in your hallway or adjacent rooms.
Ruth Mottershead, the Creative Director of The Little Greene, states that “using wallpaper on a stairway can introduce pattern and interest into an area of the home that is often a little neglected. It can also help to create a journey through the house, with colors and patterns that flow from one level to another.”
A brilliant way to add interest and intrigue
Wallpapering your staircase is a brilliant way to add interest and intrigue to your home. It can transform a once plain and boring area into a stunning design feature. Whether you choose a classic design or a contemporary style, wallpapering your stairs will make a statement and create a lasting impression on anyone who enters your home.
So, if you’re looking for a way to bring new life to your staircase, consider wallpapering it. It’s a simple and effective way to add personality and style to your home.
What is the best wallpaper for a staircase
When it comes to choosing the best wallpaper for a staircase, there are many options to consider. We spoke to our editor about the different types of wallpapers that work well in this area.
Traditional wallpaper
If you’re looking for a classic and timeless look, then traditional wallpaper is a good option. It can be a neutral color or have subtle patterns that add a touch of interest to the walls. Traditional wallpaper works well in stairwells and can create a calm and elegant feel.
Printed wallpaper
Printed wallpaper is a great idea if you want to showcase your creativity and bring a touch of nature into your home. There are many wallpapers available that feature beautiful scenes of flowers or natural landscapes. These murals can add depth and visual interest to your stairwells.
Panoramic wallpaper
If you have a large staircase, then panoramic wallpaper can be a brilliant choice. This type of wallpaper captures breathtaking views across multiple levels, making your stairwell a focal point of your living space. It adds a sense of grandeur and drama to your home.
Stripes
Striped wallpaper can be a good option when you want to add a touch of modern style to your staircase. It creates a dynamic and visually interesting effect on the walls. Stripes can also make the space feel taller and wider, which is great for small stairwells.
Combination of wallpapers
If you can’t decide on just one type of wallpaper, consider using a combination of different patterns and colors. This can create a unique and eclectic look for your staircase. Experiment with different combinations to find the one that works best for your decor.
Our editor says, “The best wallpaper for a staircase is the one that reflects your personal style and complements the overall design of your home. Whether you choose a classic pattern or a bold color, the right wallpaper can transform your stairwell into a stunning focal point.”
Remember to take into account factors such as lighting and the size of your staircase when choosing wallpaper. Consider how the colors and patterns will interact with natural or artificial light. Think about the overall design of your home and how the wallpaper will fit into the existing decor. With so many options available, you’re sure to find a stair wallpaper idea that suits your taste and makes a statement.
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