When considering the importance of stairs in home design, they're more than just a function in the room. Not only do they have a purpose, but they can be one of the most prominent design elements in a space. These centralized features can often be a beautiful focal point of the home, helping to make a statement and setting the tone for the rest of the house.
Stairs usually function as the home's backbone, allowing designers to create an eye-catching feature. At Dennis Miller Homes, we incorporate custom staircase design that perfectly blends functionality with a modern design and complements your home's aesthetic.
The best staircases know how to balance the art of design and functionality. They know how to make a statement while ensuring safety and allowing for the movement of people and materials. Instead of putting stairs wherever they're the most convenient, we believe they should play a critical role in home design and function.
All staircase designs must adhere to strict guidelines and building regulations, including straight-to-winder and spiral stairs. They should also be constructed of sustainable building materials that will endure longevity and enhance stability. At Dennis Miller Homes, we prioritize safety in our staircase designs, ensuring that they are beautiful and provide a secure environment for your home.
Poorly designed stairs have a poor impact and can be a safety hazard. When designing stairs, it's important to consider safety regulations and building codes. Stairs should be designed with handrails, sufficient lighting, level surfaces, tight carpeting, and sufficient carrying capacity.
Most building codes around the country are based on the International Residential Code, a nonprofit standards organization that has established minimum regulations for one- and two-family houses. A summary of Utah Code 15A-3-202 concludes the following regulations for staircases:
When designed correctly, stairs can maximize space efficiency and traffic flow. New homeowners don't always consider the placement of stairs and how it impacts the flow of your home. Properly placed stairs improve the circulation, or flow of people, around your home.
Moving the stairs to a corner of the house sometimes allows specific rooms to expand and create centralized traffic patterns. While maximizing space efficiency in the room varies based on the design, stairs should be placed on one side of the home, often near the garage, for maximum efficiency.
It seems like anything is possible in modern custom staircase design. From floating stairs to smart stairs, designers are embracing cutting-edge aesthetics and new functionality. Many innovative trends redefine how we move from one floor to another. Some popular stairwell design trends are floating staircases, incorporating nature-inspired elements, and sculptural staircases. In-home design, modern staircases enhance overall home aesthetics and are sculptural masterpieces.
Incorporating a custom staircase design into your home can have many benefits. Custom stairs are designed to fit any space, including tight areas. They can also be designed to blend in with landings, curves, and mezzanines. Custom staircase design also allows for the ability to match specific themes or lifestyles.
Designing custom stairs also allows you to choose the material they're made from. We recommend choosing high-quality, long-lasting materials such as concrete, metal, wood, stone, or glass.
When planning a staircase for your home, you can choose from many styles: straight, L-shaped, U-shaped, winder, spiral, curved, cantilever, and split. While settling on one style is difficult, several factors help you choose. First, consider the amount of space you have available. For example, straight or L-shaped stairs work because for smaller homes. Larger homes can accommodate a more decorative or curved staircase. Don't hesitate to ask us for ideas and our opinion in choosing the right staircase.
These high-end design elements are often the focal point in many larger homes and commercial spaces. While adding a touch of sophistication and elegance, they are designed to make a statement and are commonly made from stone, glass, and wood. In some cases, they feature intricate detailing and finishes, such as ornate railings, carved balusters, and inlaid stone.
The biggest advantage of designing a spiral staircase is saving space. Compared with other staircases, a spiral staircase occupies a very small area. Spiral staircases are also incredibly durable, often made from hard materials such as metal or timber. Modern spiral staircases are usually made with a combination of steel and have simple, clean lines.
Often known as open riser staircases or floating staircases, these types have gaps between the treads inside risers to bridge the gap. Open stairs have a light look and have minimal visual obstruction, making the space feel bright and spacious. They're a great alternative to traditional staircases. Open staircases look great, whether up against a wall or in the middle of a room.
When you sit down with us to design the stairs in your home, we'll consider several things. First, we'll review your floor plan and determine where a staircase might be best. Keep in mind that stairs can be moved in most cases. We'll review the type of staircase you'd like, reviewing any inspirational photos you may have. Next, we'll discuss design, style, and materials. In some cases, budget is also a consideration. If this is the case, we'll discuss how to design a stunning staircase that fits within your budget.
The best staircases perfectly balance the combination of functionality and style. At Dennis Miller Homes, we're here to help you plan your ideal staircase, the one you've always wanted. We understand the importance of fine-tuning these elements in your house. After all, this is the home you'll live in and experience life for years to come. Contact Dennis Miller Homes today!
