Statement Staircases
Words by Rachel Heaney.
Above: Plaster invokes an organic feel in the entryway of Whitney Cummings stunning, California home. Designed by Jake Arnold and photographed by Michael Clifford.
Statement staircases are having a moment . . . again. In their most basic state, this architectural necessity serves its purpose, getting you from point a to point b with efficient, glute-burning ease. At their best, they participate in the home as a sculptural element, commanding you to take notice and appreciate their form and function.
Conjuring up images of grand, cinematic entrances and daydreams of ascension from the foyer into a light-soaked library (see the photo below), a statement staircase has the ability to transform a transitional space into a stand-alone artistic feature. From concrete to wood, plaster finishes to intricate detailing, interior designers and architects are maximizing the potential of this humble design element.
Scroll through a few eye-catching interiors that showcase them, below.
Above: A curvaceous staircase takes up space in this residential living-dining area. Designed by Australia-based Joe Adsett Architects and photographed by Brock Beazley.
Above: At once ornate and subtle, this carved stairway in the former home of Danish sculptor Rikard Axel Poulsen (1887-1972) blends seamlessly with the traditional and the trendy. Photographed for Ark Journal by Heidi Lerkenfeldt. Styled by Pernille Vest.
Above: A textured, spiral staircase draws the eye upward in this earthy abode. Designed and photographed by Siriano Interiors.
Above: Native to the home, a metal spiral staircase snakes up the back wall of this Portuguese guesthouse. As seen in Dwell. Designed by Atelier RUA and Studio Stories. Photographed by Francisco Nogueira.
Above: Muted tones and a minimalist vibe dominate the studio/work space of India-based S H E D. Designed by studio i! and photographed by Ishi Sitwala .
