Everything you need to know about feature steps
Your staircase is the heart of your home and one of the best opportunities you have to make a design statement.
There are hundreds of different combinations of styles and materials to choose from that will make your staircase personal to you.
One thing that we find helps our customers reflect their style and preferences is the addition of a feature step.
But what exactly are they, and which designs can you choose from?
The experts here at Pear Stairs reveal all in this article.
So, what is a feature step?
A feature step has two main functions.
The first is to act as an invitation to explore the design possibilities of your staircase, and the second is to improve the flow of your interior into adjoining rooms.
With a feature step, you can approach your stairs from many angles, which makes your home much easier to navigate.
When you add a feature step, you typically move the first newel post back, leaving a gap with no balustrade.
We understand that this is something you might not be used to, but if you’re looking to open up your space and give yourself a place to express your style, adding a feature step to your staircase is the way to go.
What designs can I choose from?
There are two main types of feature steps you’ll be able to choose from – bullnose and curtail.
Bullnose is one of the most popular, and they’re often used when the stairs are against the wall on one side.
It has a rounded corner which joins the front edge to the side of the first newel post.
While being extremely simple to build, this type of feature step is sure to bring a smooth, elegant beginning to your staircase.
Curtail feature steps are quite different. They add much more character to your staircase and make their overall appearance a little grander.
Typically, the bottom step wraps around the first (or first few) newel post(s) to make the stairs even easier to access.
You could even combine the two, with a curtail on the bottom and a smaller bullnose on the top, to create the most elegant, extravagant staircase possible – if this is something you want.
Can you change the shape of feature steps?
Absolutely!
Feature steps can be adapted to suit your style and design requirements.
If the rounded-off sort of shape isn’t your thing, then you could opt for a straight-edge square or rectangular feature step.
Ready to design your dream staircase?
If you want to spruce up your staircase, adding a feature step is the perfect way to go about it.
Whether you dress your stairs up with a brand new carpet or simply give them a fresh coat of paint or varnish, a feature step is sure to fit right in while helping your hallway achieve a whole new look.
Need help designing your dream staircase? Get in touch with our team!
We’d be more than happy to discuss your requirements in detail and show you examples of our work to demonstrate how a feature step can take your stairs to another level.
To speak to us directly, give us a call on 01938 553 311, or send your enquiry by email to webenquiries@pearstairs.co.uk if you prefer, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can!
