When it comes to designing a custom built home, there’s a lot to think about. Whether you work with an interior designer or your custom home builder, it can get confusing when you look at all of your options. This is especially true for something as important as an entryway or staircase. Here are some ideas to consider as you are developing your plan.

Types of Staircases

There are many different styles of staircase. Consider the style along with the available space and structure you have in your home. If you have a ‘go big or go home’ attitude, why not try a double staircase? This type of staircase has two pathways leading up to a central hallway or walkway.

If you prefer something with less fanfare, consider a modern staircase. Modern staircases are characterized with minimalistic style. Usually these have ‘hanging’ steps, or steps with connections to other steps via beams, rather than a solid material. These staircases also often have open banisters, making them simple and sophisticated.

Less Is More

Staircases are usually found in the entryway of a home. If this is the case in your custom built home, remember that when you’re designing the foyer or entryway, less is more. Choose a focal point in the setting and add pieces to complement that. Depending on the space you have in your entryway, you can add a small table and chairs. You can also add large vases or decoration pieces, rugs, mirrors, or drawers.

Seating/ Table Setting

If you add seating or tables in your custom built home, it’s important to plan their placement before you include them. In some cases, a table or chair addition makes the area look more closed and cluttered. Try to put these items flush against the wall of the staircase or near its base. You also want to pick a table that’s particularly small and matches well with not just the chair, but the staircase nearby. This helps everything tie together nicely.

Carpet vs. Tile or Hardwoods

Choosing between hardwood, carpet and tile on your staircase and in your entryway is another important decision to make. There are pros and cons to all of these options. Carpet or hardwoods help give a warmer tone to the area and actually makes the room warmer too. Tiles provide a cooling effect and work better the warmest months of summer. Carpet can add a royal or cozy effect depending on the design, while tile can add a hint of sophistication or colorful vibes and hardwoods provide a natural feel.

All of these flooring options can easily be used as focal points in your entryway. You can use the design on your carpet or the color combination in your tiles or hardwoods to choose coordinating pieces for the rest of your entryway.

Staircases and entryways are a great place to show your creativity and style in your Alair Homes custom built home. However, it’s important to ensure that the design you choose is not only beautiful, but functional and structurally sound as well. We’re here to help. Contact us to discuss your options and get the information you need to make a smart choice.