Have you ever struggled with what to put on the wall of your staircase? Here are 20+ ideas for staircase decorating for a gorgeous look. From gallery walls, to collection displays, oversized objects, and more, one of these ideas is sure to inspire.
Decorating a staircase can be tricky, don’t you think? Many have a large expanse of wall that seems empty if not filled but its odd shape and elevation change can make it challenging.
Not to mention the fact that the stairway serves as a transition between the downstairs and upstairs {also often the public areas and the private ones} and so the decor needs to work in both spaces!
If you’re struggling with your stairway then let one of these 20+ staircase decorating ideas inspire you!
Gallery Wall
A gallery wall is a beautiful addition to a stairway. Whether you showcase family photos, children’s artwork, or even a collection of your favorite prints, a gallery wall is an easy way to fill the empty space.
Photo by Heidi Caillier Design – Discover staircase design inspiration
How to Create a Stairway Gallery Wall
When creating a gallery wall on a stairway, remember two things:
- The angle of the center line of the gallery wall {imagine a line running the length of the display} should match the angle of the staircase so that, while the layout is informal, it has balance.
2. The starting frames should be hung low on the staircase so that they look right when viewing from the first floor.
Proper spacing and layout are key for a gallery wall, so I’ve put together a Guide for a Beautiful Layout.
I love this eclectic gallery wall from Jill at Forever Cottage.
And this gallery wall that Karen Hill created in her foyer. I love how she created a straight line at the bottom but the top rises along with the stairs.
A gallery wall doesn’t have to be eclectic, though. If you prefer a more formal, structured look, try a series of prints in matching frames that ascend at the same rate as the stairs.
Photo by Studio M Interior Design – Browse staircase photos
Floor to Ceiling Display
Another, bigger and bolder option, is to use the entire stairway wall from floor to ceiling. This looks best when large artwork is used so that it doesn’t look too cluttered.
But then again, maybe cluttered has never looked so good!
Ledge Display
Using ledges is another great option to display art because it gives you a horizontal surface. A ledge display has more structure than a gallery wall but accomplishes the same goal.
In the photo below, the homeowner has created one giant ledge and the results are stunning!
Oversized Art
For a more dramatic look, try using oversized art on the stairway wall (ideally in odd numbers like 3 or 5).
Photo by – Search staircase design ideas
Photo by COOK ARCHITECTURAL Design Studio – Browse entryway ideas
Mirrors
Mirrors are great for reflecting light and creating an open feel. Just like with art, you can go for oversize or a gallery display!
And speaking of bold, Annie Brahler designed one of my all-time favorite layouts using assorted mirrors!
Tapestry
If a tapestry fits your decorating style, then try a stairway wall is a great backdrop and beautiful display.
Photo by Dee Simmons Interiors – More staircase photos
Millwork
Millwork is a beautiful architectural detail that fills the walls without looking cluttered. This classic detail is timeless and adds dimension (and value) to your home.
Photo by Pimlico Interiors – Browse staircase ideas
Collections
Do you have a collection you’d love to display? You can use it as your stairway wall decor! Whether you use antique bread paddles, animal heads, baskets, or antique plates, remember to keep it grouped together for a tidy look.
Photo by – More staircase ideas
Do you have a collection you want to display? Check out my tips for How to Display Beautiful Collections.
Do you have a collection you want to display? Check out my
Oversized Object
You can use just one, large statement piece on your staircase as a focal point.
Photo by Anthony Baratta LLC – Look for staircase pictures
Photo by Stairs Designs – Discover staircase design inspiration
Lighting
If you have statement lighting, sometimes it can be enough to stand on its own!
Photo by The Anderson Studio of Architecture & Design – Look for staircase pictures
Feature Wall
A feature wall can add drama, elegance, and visual impact! Whether you use paneling, wallpaper, or even a mural.
Photo by Robin Baron Design – Look for entryway design inspiration
Photo by Heather Garrett Design – Discover staircase design inspiration
Photo by Pfuner Design – Miami Interior Designers – More staircase ideas
Combination Ideas
The great news is that you don’t have to choose just one idea! You can combine lighting with artwork or mirrors. Or try artwork mixed with collected objects!
Photo by Denise Morrison Interiors & House of Morrison – Search staircase design ideas
More Decorating Ideas
- 28 Creative Decorating Ideas for Tall Walls
- 28 {Best} Ideas for Decorating Above the Bed
- 9 Decorating Ideas for the Foot of the Bed
- Decorating with Baskets {18 Everyday Ideas}
- 10 Tips for Creating a Collected Gallery Wall
- Beautiful Ways to Display & Organize Collections
Which of these staircase decorating ideas best matches your style?
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Your staircase decorating ideas are a fantastic blend of creativity and practicality! I particularly admire how each option, from gallery walls to oversized art, offers a unique way to transform a space that’s often overlooked. It’s clear that these ideas can cater to a wide range of styles and preferences, making staircase decor an exciting aspect of home design. Thank you for sharing such an inspiring and comprehensive guide!
How about ideas for a spiral staircase.
Hi Robyn – That’s a tricky one! Let me give it some thought. :) Kim
I so needed direction in this area! Beautiful ideas.
Love the large mirrors going up the staircase – clean simple statement for a foyer. Where are those mirrors from (or the brand)?
Thanks for sharing these different staircase decorating ideas! I really like the mirror hanging guide that you posted here– it really helps me visualize how to hang up artwork without making the staircase area look silly! The statement lighting is also a nice little decoration that could help brighten up the staircase area (literally)! Overall, these are really cute ideas– thanks again for sharing!
I like Karen Hill’s wall under the stairway. I have an area just like that in my house but I never even thought of decorating it with pictures! Great share!
Patti
M
I love the gallery walls going up the stairwell! When done right, they are fabulous!!
xo. Leslie
Segreto Finishes
I like the ledge and Forever Cottage’s the best. Jill’s wall gallery is flawless but I can’t begin to imagine how challenging it was to get the spacing just right. Very nice post. I think I’m glad I live in a single story home. :-)
Karen
Kim….I’m hard pressed to pick just one! My stairs run downstairs to the garage…maybe some mirrors to brighten it up?
Kim, I love them all!! It is so hard to choose. I am still in the process of decorating and haven’t completed my staircase. Thanks for sharing these ideas!