Decorating Stair Risers

If you’ve been following along with the Shelly Project, you know that the stairways in this mid-century split level underwent a dramatic transformation.

This mid-century split-level home looks dated after an earlier renovation boxed in the stairway. (The Shelly Project)

Often overlooked from a decorating viewpoint, stairs are a major visual and functional part of any multi-story home. Sometimes simple decorative changes can make a huge impact on the overall look of the property.

The same home looks so much brighter with the dark panels removed. Painting the risers glossy white adds to the open effect. (The Shelly Project by Back Creek Design)

Although a bit time-consuming, redecorating stair risers is not a difficult DIY task. And the results can be spectacular, as the following photos demonstrate.

A variation on white-painted risers, but with added personalization. What great thoughts to keep in mind as you go up to bed each night! (photo courtesy of Accent on Design)

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Aren’t these fantastic? Although they wouldn’t work in every setting, what a great way to welcome a visitor to an artist’s abode. (photo courtesy of Michelle Allen at Close 2 My Art)

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Beautiful to look at, and easy to maintain, tiled mosaic risers are worth the effort. (photo courtesy of Trendir.com)

All these examples make our stairs at Shelly look so plain. But I’m happy with the result, and proud to think that the next owners will have a beautiful backdrop for their furnishings. And if they decide to try mosaic, stencils, or impressionist painting, we’ve given them a flat, clean canvas to play with.

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