Ever notice how commercial staircases often come in two or more contrasting colors or designs? Often, stores, municipal buildings and other public structures use contrasting paints or materials around the edges of their stairs’ treads, and they do this for an important reason: to enhance safety for users by making the steps easier to see.
Increasingly, homeowners looking to improve safety or inject new style into their homes are opting for two-tone staircase designs, and while such designs serve a distinct purpose, they also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your stairs and home. When done well, two-tone staircases offer an easy facelift and can also boost your home’s overall value, so they can be a great way to increase its worth without having to invest in a major project or upgrade.
Tips for Two-Tone Staircases
Know you like the look and functionality of a two-tone staircase design, but not sure where to start? Read through the following tips to improve your chances of creating a design you love to live with.
1. Consider mixed mediums.
Using a contrasting type of wood on the nosing of your stairs can make them easier for everyone to navigate (which can prove particularly beneficial if you have older adults living in or frequently visiting your home), and it can also give your staircase an elegant, elevated look.
2. Replace old, worn carpeting with a two-tone design.
Chances are, your stairs undergo heavy use, and carpeted stairs can take a serious hit over time in terms of appearance. If you’re considering ripping up the carpet that currently covers your stairs, you may want to also consider painting or staining them in multiple colors to make each stair pop.
3. Consider your other staircase elements.
Should you decide to move forward with a two-tone staircase design, you will also want to consider whether you will need to upgrade other parts of the stairs, such as the balusters or handrails. Because any staircase modifications involve some prep work, it may save you significant time and money to upgrade all the elements you want to enhance at the same time.
There’s a reason most business owners use signage that comes in contrasting colors – it’s easier on the eyes, so audiences are more likely to see it. The same holds true for your staircase, so if you’re looking to make them safer to navigate while simultaneously adopting the two-tone design trend, use these tips to help make it happen.