How to Decorate Stairs: 4 Examples of Stair Décor

Stair décor refers to all types of decorative accents you add to the stairs, banisters, and walls surrounding your staircase. Staircase décor can make the stairs look more attractive, disguise them to make them less noticeable, brighten the space, or set a specific design aesthetic or theme. Staircases are often visible from the entryway, so a stair makeover can create a welcoming first impression.

There’s room for creativity when it comes to stair décor. Here are a few examples:

1. 1. Riser decorations: The vertical stair risers on your stairs create a canvas for décor. Apply wall stickers, tiles or painted designs to the risers to create a decorative theme or add color.
2. 2. Tread accents: The flat treads of your staircase need to remain mostly clear of any items to allow safe travel up and down the stairs. The exception is a securely installed continuous stair runner or individual stair tread rugs to accent the treads and help hide blemishes on the stairs.
3. 3. Banister accents: Decorations on your banister spruce up a plain or unattractive handrail.
4. 4. Hanging décor: Adding a gallery wall or other hanging decorations over your wall lets you incorporate specific themes or add personal touches to the space.

There are various options for stair wall décor. Here are a few options:

1. 1. Paint: An inexpensive DIY option for your staircase wall and the stairs themselves is a new coat of paint. Paint color sets the mood for the space, allowing you to create a calming or energizing feel. Light, neutral paint colors brighten a dark staircase or minimize the look of it if you want to disguise it.
2. 2. Photo gallery: Add a personal touch by creating a photo gallery that features your family photos.
3. 3. Wall art: Whether you choose a theme or mix and match, wall art can make your space more lively.
4. 4. Shelving: Add storage and visual interest to your stair wall with a bookshelf. You can mix in books and trinkets of varying sizes.

For each of these options, you can add a seasonal element. You can switch out your artwork for winter-themed items or hang a stocking on the stair wall. You can change the decorations for different times of the year, including Halloween and Easter or fall and summer.

Your staircase railing provides a spot to hang greenery and other decorations, but decorate with caution to keep the handrail functional. If your home décor covers the railing completely, you can't use it for support to walk up and down the stairs safely. Aim to hang décor below the railing or on the vertical balusters instead of on top of the railing. Here are a few ideas:

1. 1. Plants: Make your space greener by hanging plants or wrapping them around the railing.
   
2. 2. Garland: For the holidays, you can drape garland along the bottom edge of the railing.
3. 3. Lights: Add visual interest by adding white, yellow, or multi-colored lights to your banister.

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