Take the stairs for a change.
I cannot count how many buyers have turned their nose up at homes that feature a center staircase. That is unfortunate because in Philadelphia, particularly in the older turn-of-the-century homes found in and around Center City, a center staircase is the prevalent design. The center staircase is often situated in the middle of the home dividing it in half separating the living room, parlor, or dining area from the kitchen which is typically located in the back of the house. The current modern trend favors one large open great room with nothing but furniture to divide the room into less formal spaces.
I would like to challenge current home buyers and home owners to take the stairs for a change. Consider making the staircase the centerpiece of your home rather than avoiding or ignoring it altogether. Here are a few ideas that really make a center staircase the most delighted part of the home.
1) Open the staircase up completely for that ultra modern feel.
2) Refinish old spindles by stripping them or painting them your favorite accent colors.
3) Swap out the old-fashioned decorative wrought iron for more industrial materials like the (see photo) staircase done by local artist Leo Razzi.
4) We've all see risers painted white but what about painting them different colors?
5) If you have a closed off wall on either side of your staircase, make it a half wall or get really creative and cut and finish small openings to be used as shelving or peek through windows.
6) Try adding some built-in shelving nooks.
[image via Silver Lining Decor]
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