March 11, 2024 | Updated: March 12, 2024

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Stair treads: ‘upping’ the aesthetics of a space

The combination and configuration of stair treads influences the spatial and visual experience of the space.

Stair treads are expressions of design that fuse functionality and aesthetics. From classic and elegant straight stair treads to contemporary helical staircases. In this post, we will explore the main types of stair treads.

In addition to serving a practical function, staircases also provide an opportunity to showcase good design. Creating access to a second level or floor is a complicated task, and designing it is not a simple matter to solve. However, today’s different staircase ideas can take decoration to another level. Whether it is a conventional or avant-garde design.

From spiral or spiral staircases, floating, modern, wooden, metal or glass. There are various designs to choose from to suit the desired space and style. Each of the stair tread possibilities has its own charm.

Ambiente con peldaños de escalera XLIGHT Taj Mahal Silk, de PORCELANOSA.

XLIGHT Taj Mahal Silk stair treads by PORCELANOSA.

The spiral staircase

Peldaños de escalera y suelo revestidos con XTONE Invisible White.
Stair treads and floor covered with XTONE Invisible White.

Those who choose the spiral staircase do so because of all the configurations available, it is the one that takes up the least space. It is also one of the most sculptural. Its ascending spiral creates visual appeal. Beyond its basic utility, it could be considered a piece of modern art.

These staircases are an efficient solution for limited spaces, adding a touch of architectural sophistication. There are two types for this format: in one, the stair treads rotate around a central pillar or column. This configuration is the most common in homes. The other option is simply circular, and has a handrail on both sides.

Floating stairs: a visual impact

One of the most visually striking developments in contemporary staircase design are the floating or cantilevered staircases. They are characterised by their elegant and minimalist design. It is a structural and architectural innovation. Butech has a system that includes a wall anchoring structure and a drawer with PORCELANOSA cladding. This design allows the stair treads to protrude from the wall and remain suspended in the air.


►Note: Normally, a gap is left between each of the stair treads, giving a visual lightness to the space. In this way, the steps appear to float above each other. The visual impact of this design is striking and very modern.


Floating stairs covered with Bottega Caliza, by PORCELANOSA.

Glass staircases

Escalera y pavimento Dover Acero, de PORCELANOSA.
Dover Acero staircase and flooring, by PORCELANOSA.

When you want to achieve a sense of visual lightness and spaciousness, glass stairs are another good option. One of the main benefits is the way it projects and filters light downwards. With an avant-garde look, transparency makes its presence felt in a unique way.

The minimalist and contemporary design brings in light. Its structure, with a sense of openness to the space, makes spaces appear larger and more connected.

Modern staircase design

Like everything else in design, the staircase is subject to changing trends and fashions. Modern staircase ideas tend to be very practical, leaving the decorative function in the background.

  • Treat the staircase as an additional space. This means adding a bookcase or shelving. Or perhaps treat the first three steps separately from the main flight and design them as an extension of the staircase itself.
  • Converting the lower part of the staircase. The ideal is to take advantage of the area that has the lowest headroom. You can set up your own office: all you need is a table and a chair. It can also be a leisure or rest area, where you can place an armchair or a pouffe.

Wooden stairs: timeless appeal

Traditionally, wood has always been the material of choice for stair treads. Decorative and structurally strong, wood is still a common choice for any type of interior design.

The wooden staircase is the most standard and therefore there are different configurations to choose from. Stair treads made of natural wood are timeless. Their timeless appearance allows them to be integrated into any environment. The warmth and natural texture of wood brings a classic elegance to any space.

Porcelain tile on stair treads

The use of porcelain or ceramic tiles for stair treads is a choice that combines style and durability. Ceramic stair treads for indoor stairs are an ideal solution, given their resistance to wear, stains and moisture. Also for outdoor spaces. In addition to its resistance, porcelain stair treads are easy to clean. This is essential for high traffic areas such as this.

By maintaining a constant temperature in the room, ceramics add comfort and safety. The variety of colours, textures and finishes of porcelain tiles allows you to adapt to different styles: contemporary, classic, Nordic, industrial or eclectic. You can even achieve a rustic style with the porcelain wood staircase.

Peldaños de escalera XTONE Liem Grey Nature.

Stair treads XTONE Liem Grey Nature.

Minimalism: metal structure

(1)XTONE Orobico Grigio Polished.
(2)Metal structure with wooden ladder rungs.

Compared to wood, the metal staircase has a very different aesthetic. The structural and aesthetic qualities of metal make it easy to fill a space. This type of material is often associated with the industrial style.

However, not all parts of the staircase need to be made of metal. In fact, for a warmer atmosphere, it is best to combine metal with another material. For example, the handrail and steps can be finished with other materials. Right now, one of the main trends in tables is to combine wood and metal. So you can achieve a modern look with this type of structure. Ideas for the staircase wall

Whatever their configuration, most staircases have a wall in their extension. The following design ideas enhance the decorative potential of staircase walls. Like a blank canvas, we recommend these ideas for personalising the staircase wall:

  • Get creative with wall finishes. Use papel pintado or tiles to bring dynamism and colour to the area.
  • Artwork is another way to add personality to the staircase. You can hang pictures, decorative plates or photographs along the wall. In this way, you will create a gallery-like effect, or at least give the area an original look.
  • Lighting is also a design element. You can install wall sconces or pendant lights to create a warm and cosy atmosphere. With recessed or low-level lighting, you can make stair treads more visible or add a dramatic effect.

In conclusion, architectural staircases transcend their basic function of connecting levels; they are fundamental elements that transform the spatial and visual experience of a space. In their design, structural efficiency, aesthetics and accessibility must be considered. Ultimately, stairs are practical elements and architectural expressions that lead to new heights.

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