Flights of fancy

Replace or refurbish your staircase and you'll elevate the appearance of your home at every level. Here are the steps to take...

- CLAUDIA BAILLIE AND ANDRÉA CHILDS

Despite being a major traffic thoroughfare and often the first design element people see when they walk through your front door -the staircase is one of the most frequently overlooked areas of the home. But its visual impact can reflect upon the entire property.

From spirals to spindles, glass to granite, there is plenty of scope for making a statement. You may decide to renovate your existing flight of stairs, clad the structure to give it a completely new aesthetic, or replace your existing steps with a new design to maximise the flow, space and look of your home.

A STEP AHEAD

Replacing a staircase is akin to knocking down a structural wall. But if your stairs are poorly positioned, ugly or hinder light flow through the house, a new flight can make a big difference.

Always consult an architect or a specialist company to ensure the best fit, in terms of style and proportion. An architect will also be able to advise on the position of your stairs. Moving them may involve more work and cost but will make the most of the space available in your home. The plans must comply with building regulations for staircases; see staircases.org. 'Replacing elements such as handrails, spindles and steps can provide an immediate refresh,' says Gareth Betts, staircase designer at Neville Johnson. For example, the treads and risers can become worn over time. Replace these to add an instant impact and, in most cases, make your staircase look completely new.'

PREPARING FOR FLIGHT