The most beautiful homes find a way to turn functional architectural elements into showstopping design focal points. Case in point: these 7 stairways are so heavenly we wish they never ended.
While the idea of height in architecture stems back to Medieval Times when there was a need for towers to spot approaching enemies with enough time to close city or palace gates, today it is a way to add living space and make a separation between living quarters and sleeping quarters.
Starry Stairwell
This Charles Barber design is reminiscent of a 15th century Tuscan villa with interiors patterned after the Pallazo Davanzati in Florence, Italy. This painted ceiling, circular stair case, large windows and cascading fauna are swoon-worthy. This Knoxville, TN home was originally commissioned in 1926, by John F Craig to showcase the highest quality marbles quarried and imported by his firm, the Candoro Marble Co.
Airy Upstairs
Accented by a spiral glass and wood stairway, this new modern minimalist home located on the north slope of Potrero Hill, offers views of downtown and the bay. The floating steps, glass railings and spiral design make the separation between levels almost non-existent.
The Juliet Balcony
A home with this level of elegance requires a grand entrance of Shakespearean proportions. Ascend the grand master staircase and call out your goodnights from the magnificent Juliet balcony that runs the length of the foyer. Reminiscent of a home in the French countryside, this gem is located more than 1,000 ft. above Stowe Village and from virtually all rooms enjoys exceptional panoramic views west to the Green Mountains.
Opulent Ascent
This stairwell is reminiscent of a bygone era with the iron railings, pastel paneled walls and stained glass skylight. Fitting for an iconic mansion that has been beautifully restored and renovated melding the original residence with today’s modern amenities.
Elaborate Escalier
298 Rugby Cove Road, Arnold, MD listed by Day Weitzman of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
The ornately carved railings make this majestic Maryland masterpiece a dreamy delight. Who wouldn’t want to climb this staircase to plush bedrooms above? Situated on the sought after Severn River, this home was beautifully renovated and tastefully transformed into a warm, inviting home with many original details intact.
Treehouse Climb
14 N 2941 Co Rd, Kremmling, CO listed by Dennis Saffell with Coldwell Banker Mountain Properties
Ever dreamed of sleeping in a treehouse? Well, at this magnificent mountain estate, you can feel as though your swinging from the boughs of the tallest oaks, while snugly tucked into the finest quarters Colorado has to offer. The cut log steps, rustic wooden beams and stone walls make for a stunning stairwell unlike any we’ve ever seen.
Plantation Refinement
The beautiful craftsmanship of this Hawaiian plantation-style home is evident in the beautiful entryway and staircase. And indeed, this alluring ocean view property is West Kauai’s best-kept secret: a beautiful plantation custom home and guest house, surrounded by lush tropical gardens, a heated swimming pool and thoughtfully placed garden fountains, complete this private sanctuary. The main home is an indulgence to the senses with its formal entry and wide plank Merbau hardwood floors. As if living in the Hawaiian tropics wasn’t enough, this home gives living in the lap of luxury new meaning.
That treehouse climb staircase is absolutely breathtaking. I’ve always loved the look of wood for staircases, but using that type of beam and post just blows my mind. I love all of the designs you showcased here, but that one really, really inspired me. Thanks for sharing!