- 1). Paint a rainbow staircase. Purchase a different color of paint for each step, choosing colors that contrast or several in similar shades. Prime the steps with latex primer and allow them to dry completely; this will take at least 24 hours. Mark off every other step with masking tape to create neat lines for painting. Starting at the top of the stairs, use a paintbrush to paint each taped-off stair a different color. Apply several coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry between applications. Allow the first set of stairs to dry completely then repeat the process with the alternate steps.
- 2). Accent a solid-colored staircase with decorative lighting. Use lighting fixtures you would not normally associate with a hallway, such as neon lettering or a hand-blown red glass chandelier. Arrange decorative wall lanterns shaped like birds on the stairway's walls so that they seem to be flying upwards.
- 3). Replace existing railings and balusters with handcrafted versions forged by local artisans. Iron workers can re-purpose old building materials to make one-of-a-kind balusters that are edgy, ecologically conscious and perhaps even historically significant. Commission an artist to paint the baluster and railing in high contrast pinstripes for a modern graphic look.
- 4). Apply a bold strip of designer wallpaper above beautifully whitewashed wainscoting. Modern toile de jouy patterns incorporate cityscapes and insects with a sense of humor. Vintage wallpapers that mix colors and patterns energetically can breathe life into the stairwell.
- 5). Install an unusual accent runner. Select a runner that features a modern abstracted floral design or a striking solid color like hot pink or acid yellow; look for such patterns and colors at a boutique artisan supplier rather than the cut-by-the-yard variety you find at home decorating store for the most interesting results.
- 6). Complement a contemporary home by painting the stairs one bright color that extends halfway or all the way up the hallway wall. Red stairs with a half-red wall are unexpected; turquoise stairs paired with turquoise-patterned wallpaper marked by a chair rail formed of mahogany molding cannot be ignored.
- 7). Apply wallpaper to the stair facings. Use natural textured weaves on wood steps for a beachy feel or vintage patterns with white steps for a playful kick. Measure the stair facings carefully and cut the wallpaper to size with a utility knife. Working down from the top stair, secure your designs to the facings with wallpaper adhesive.
- 8). Use stickers or wall appliques to create decorative arrangements on your stair facings if you are intimidated by wallpaper adhesive.
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