Whether you intend to make a feature of your steps or want a style to blend in, our showcase of ideas is sure to inspire you

Your staircase sets the tone for your home’s decor, so it pays to invest in this feature – whether you’re after a sculptural statement or a simpler design that provides an anchor between storeys. If you’re extending or undertaking a substantial renovation, relocating the flight or changing its direction could be an opportunity to improve the flow of rooms.

Your architect or staircase specialist should take into account the stair location, the space around it, wall structures and openings in relation to rooms. “Decide early on if the flight will form an integral part of the house’s structure or be designed and fabricated by a specialist off site – whether in component parts or as a single piece of furniture,” says architect Oliver Bray, director at OB Architecture. “This is largely driven by your chosen materials and finishes.”

As well as the classic straight staircase, you could create cantilevered steps with floating treads that produce a light, contemporary aesthetic, or a spiral flight that winds around a central pole. Period designs can look slim and elegant in a nod to Georgian style or might feature curves and design details echoing the Arts & Crafts look.

Material choice is where you can make a real impact. Structures can be made from wood, steel or concrete with a balustrade of timber, metal or glass – or a combination.

“Bronze is popular, with aged finishes for balustrades and uprights. The metal goes well with other natural materials like wood,” says Richard McLane, design director at Bisca. “We get many enquiries for glass; appealing because it doesn’t take away any visual space and maximises light.