Your basement stairs are one of the most important features of the space. You use them every time you visit your basement, and they’re often a prominent visual element during any time you spend there. You can make the most of your stairs with these basement staircase ideas.
Safety First with Rubber Basement Stair Treads
While it’s not quite a fun or exciting topic, it’s important to first think about safety for your basement stairs. This is especially true if you have a utilitarian or even unfinished basement that’s used more for work than play.
If you’re lugging things up or down or coming in after a rainy day, you don’t want to risk a slip. That’s why rubber basement stair treads are a great choice. They provide exceptional traction while still offering a subtle yet stylish appearance for your stairs.
Go Bold with Basement Stair Paint
You might think of stairs as boring, but there’s no reason they can’t be a bold and dynamic design feature in your basement. Paint is one of the easiest ways to change things up, so consider going with bold and bright colors rather than neutrals.
One of the best ways to make your stairs pop is to change up colors for different parts. Paint the treads and risers in different colors for a great look, and you can coordinate or contrast with railings and other elements as well.
Create a Seamless Transition
If you have a carpeted basement, consider going with the same carpet for your basement stairs. This creates a seamless transition that can help make your basement look larger. Basement stair carpet is one of the best basement stair tread ideas.
This is a particularly effective option if you have a door at the top of your basement stairs. If the area is already disconnected from the rest of your home, there’s no reason it shouldn’t have the same flooring and style as your basement.
Try Out Glass Basement Stair Railings
Most railings for basement stairs are wood, with some metal options. You can achieve a striking modern style with glass railings. You can choose a metal railing with glass panels to achieve both style and function.
There’s also the choice of floor-to-ceiling glass railings for your basement stairs. They attach to the floor and ceiling as well as several points along your stairs. These provide a very stylish look and make the most of your basement stair lighting.
Take Advantage of Storage Space
If the space under your stairs is completely closed in, you’re wasting it. This is also true if you can only access it from the other side, often through a utility room. Instead, you can open up that space for quick and convenient storage.
You can choose from a range of storage solutions for under your basement stairs. You can go with a simple closet door or incorporate open shelving. Individual compartments and drawers can also be used to optimize your storage.
Create a Cozy Nook
Of course, the space beneath your stairs doesn’t have to be relegated to storage. You can use it for many different things, including creating a functional space for your basement. It’s easy to incorporate bench seating underneath your stairs.
This provides additional seating without taking up any space, letting you use your basement more efficiently. You can even add storage under the bench seat to get the best of both worlds.
Unconventional Risers
Risers are a design element that many people overlook— they often go with the same hardwood, carpet, or paint as the treads. However, there’s no reason you can’t choose something truly unique for your risers.
Stone is one option that can really increase the appeal of your risers. You can find panels similar to what you might use around a fireplace or other areas. Metal risers are another fine choice, with copper, in particular, offering a distinct look.
Make the Most of Your Basement Stairs
Whether it’s time to update the style or improve the function of your basement stairs, Better Built Basements can help. Our team can provide a wide range of affordable options. Take advantage of new features while also meeting all building codes and safety requirements. Contact us today for a free estimate.