Interior designers are warning homeowners that certain staircase styles are becoming passé. They highlight five stair design trends that are losing favor, urging people to rethink these once-popular choices.
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Overly Grand Staircases
Staircases that feel like they belong in a palace — think sweeping double stairs or dramatic spirals — are now seen as too theatrical for most homes. Designers say these grand staircases draw too much attention and can feel out of place in everyday residential settings.
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Ornate Scrollwork on Railings
Elaborate scrolls and heavily decorative metalwork, once widely used on banisters, are now considered overly baroque. Designers argue that unless your home’s architecture supports such opulence, these flourishes can feel misplaced and outdated.
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Floating Stairs
Floating or cantilevered stairs — which give the illusion of hovering in midair — are being criticized for prioritizing style over practicality. While visually striking, they’re often seen as unsafe or high-maintenance for typical household use.
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Glossy Wood with White Risers
The classic combination of shiny cherry or red-toned wood steps paired with crisp white risers is losing its appeal. Designers now prefer more muted, matte finishes and softer, more neutral riser colors that feel more modern and timeless.
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LED Strip Lighting Under Treads
Hidden LED strips tucked under the edges of stair treads used to be trendy. But designers suggest that this look is overdone and too gimmicky. Instead, they recommend more subtle and elegant light solutions, such as discrete wall-mounted step lights.
What About Carpeted Stairs?
There’s also debate around carpeted stairs. Some designers still see value in carpeting for safety and comfort, especially when used thoughtfully. But others argue that full carpeting can date a staircase, and they tend to favor stair runners instead. A well-chosen runner can offer the warmth and grip of carpet while preserving the clean lines and style of the wood steps.