Making Stairs the Star of the Entryway

The entryway of a home sets the stage for what to expect from the rest of the house. Yet too often, one of its most prominent features – the staircase – is treated as purely functional; a necessary means of getting from point A to point B. Stairs have the potential to become sculptural elements, spatial anchors, and even emotional cues that define how a home feels from the moment you walk through the door. Whether it’s a sleek floating stair that draws the eye upward or a structure that softens a modern space, the staircase can be more than just a transition; it can be the main event. Thoughtful designs can transform an everyday staircase into an architectural focal point that enhances flow, reflects style, and adds unexpected beauty.

Here are some of our recent front entry staircases that make us swoon:

Lake House in Orleans 

The front entry staircase is located adjacent to the front door of our Orleans project, creating a welcoming and connected entryway. Its switchback design features clean lines with white risers, wooden newel posts, and handrails. The black metal balusters blend modern farmhouse and coastal styles. The intermediate landing overlooks the vaulted Great Room, enhancing the connection between the floors. The neutral color palette enhances the airy, spacious feel of the space, creating effortless, casual living for our clients, their extended family, and friends. 

Weston Modern Prairie

Upon entering our modern prairie new construction project, you are welcomed by a dramatic entry foyer anchored by a striking stone-and-copper-clad fireplace that bisects the Foyer and the Great Room. Just off to the side, the beautiful open staircase spans three floors, acting as a functional sculpture within the space. Its placement maintains clear sightlines along the corridor axis, which runs uninterrupted from one end of the house to the other. The stair floats in front of a two-story window assembly, which allows it to be experienced from both the interior and exterior of the home.

Residence on Melrose

At our Melrose Street project, the staircase is positioned just inside the front door, making it an immediate visual feature upon arrival. The banded millwork detail wraps from the square stair nosing onto the wall to create a unique sculptural element, with one band made deep enough to serve as a display shelf for decorative objects and photographs. The black steel balusters create a minimalist profile that blends seamlessly into the modern space.

To learn more about stairs, entryways, and our award-winning home renovation design work, please contact us today.