20 Stunning Stairway Decor Ideas for Every Style

Check out these ideas that will really step up your stairway decor game.

Inviting Entry Bench

Become the hostess with the mostest by adding a cozy, custom bench to the wall of your stairs. This bright-white staircase features an inviting, built-in bench, three coat hooks and handsome live-edge shelf. A pair of industrial sconces shine above the shelf and provide a glowing welcome for homeowners and houseguests, alike.

Tiles + Texture

A little color goes a long way. Faded aqua and French blue tiles bring an unexpected, bohemian-coastal touch to the risers of this classic white staircase. The alternating tiles bring color and character underfoot while a dreamy driftwood bench topped with five, blue-and-white linen pillows brings natural texture to the staircase wall.

Modern Mix

Let the architecture of your home guide your approach to styling your staircase. This minimalist-style Upper West End home calls for unembellished accents and modern art. A large skylight washes the staircase with sunlight and showcases an edgy and oversized black-and-white painting, the sunny seascape print and collection of sleek, circle mirrors.

Curated Collection

Dust off your inherited art and long-forgotten travel treasures and put them to work above your staircase. This modern-meets-bohemian home shows how it’s done. A striking black-and-beige global tapestry is surrounded by a unique collection of family heirlooms above the staircase base. The curated display adds texture and dimension to the ultra-white walls and offers insight to the homeowners’ personality and style.

Personality-Packed Gallery

Follow interior designer Lauren Svenstrup’s lead and add a head-turning hue to your staircase wall. Use sleek black frames and pigmented abstract prints to create a dimensional gallery display along your stairwell.

Big + Bold Artwork

Its minimalist-style, steel-framed staircase is accessorized with a single, striking abstract painting with fiery pigments and graphic strokes. The oversized art balances the airy, open staircase and brings interest to the walls.

Glamorous Grid

A floor-to-ceiling grid gallery wall pairs with a vibrant runner to infuse whimsy and femininity into this transitional staircase. Use a grid-style gallery wall to fill the soaring walls of your stairwell.

Juxtapose Styles

This fresh foyer features a traditional, sloped staircase with board-and-batten molding ascending the stairway wall. A periwinkle and peach abstract painting packs panache onto the classic molding.

Elevated Architecture

This contemporary staircase features a mix of gray-washed wood and chic, geometric-style steel balusters. Oversized board-and-batten molding dresses the stairwell wall and adds architectural interest to the home.

Local Charm

Consider the location and style of your home when sourcing accessories for your staircase. This beach house’s tall, slender stairway is decorated with a surfboard and some sea-weathered oars.

Timeless Pairing

Achieve a timeless and classic design by layering black-and-white elements in the space. The handrails are stained to match the carpet and a luxe, charcoal velvet settee provides a plush spot to sit at the base of the stairs.

Classic Catch-All

Add a beautiful catch-all station at the base of your stairway with a small chest or dresser to provide hidden storage space for on-the-go homeowners.

Opt for the Unexpected

Show off your design chops and put a personal twist on traditional gallery walls by using unexpected objects or materials in place of typical framed photos.

High-Style Shelving

Well-styled shelves can elevate any space in your home — yes, even the awkward empty wall leading up your stairwell. Vintage books pair with sun-bleached coral figures and framed nautical prints for a coastal touch.

Natural Beauty

House plants are the key to achieving a drool-worthy staircase design without putting a single hole in your wall. A large indoor plant makes a stylish impact on the space.

Playful Neutrals

Give your traditional staircase a youthful twist by incorporating playful patterns in neutral tones, like a head-turning tiger print runner.

Theatrical Details

Amp up the drama and enhance your second-story foyer with an opulent staircase curtain, suspended from the ceiling, to accentuate the height of the space.

Color Along the Lines

If you have an open foyer, resist the urge to install art that ascends vertically along the stairs. Instead, hang art horizontal to the second story landing railing.

Wow With Wallpaper

Update your traditional staircase by applying a bold, patterned wallpaper to enliven the walls and enhance traditional trim that frames the stairs.

Clever Vignette

Create an elegant and enviable vignette at the base of your staircase no matter how small your space is, using a small side table topped with coffee table books and fresh-cut foliage.