To put your stairs behind a door or not?

Are you unsure whether to put a door at the top or bottom of your staircase? At first glance, it seems practical, but in many cases it’s not a good idea. We’ll explain why it’s better not to hide your staircase behind a door and suggest alternatives for situations where you’re still considering a door.

A staircase is an important feature of your home – especially after a staircase renovation. It would be a shame to hide such an eye-catching feature. What’s more, having a door in front of the staircase has other drawbacks:

• Less of a sense of space – a door separates the staircase from the rest of the house and makes the space feel smaller.
• Less light – a door blocks natural light from the living room or hall, making the stairwell feel dark and stuffy.
• Claustrophobic effect – the passageway often feels cramped and unpleasant.

A common reason given for installing a door at the top of the stairs is to prevent heat loss. However, this is not actually the case. In a well-insulated home, heat is retained even without a door. In fact, creating colder areas in the house often leads to higher energy consumption. If both floors are at roughly the same temperature, a door at the top of the stairs is unnecessary.

Would you still like a solution for safety or comfort? If so, consider these alternatives:

• Glass door – maintains the sense of space and keeps your staircase visible, whilst still providing a physical barrier.
• Stair gate – ideal for keeping small children safe. Once they’re older, you can simply remove it again.

A staircase deserves to be seen. With an Upstairs staircase renovation, you can turn it into a stylish statement piece that enhances your home rather than hiding it away.

Would you like a staircase that really stands out? Make an appointment with our advisors and discover the possibilities.