Make every corner of your home pop. From your hallway, to your staircase, and everything in between…wall art is a great way to add a splash of style. If you have empty space above or below your stairway, why not make the most of it? Blank walls can look cold and unwelcoming, whereas wall with artwork can make your interior appear professionally curated. We’ve put together a selection of expert tips on how to choose the best wall art for your staircase.
Add Art to Any Room
There’s no limit to the spaces you can fill with artwork. From busy gallery walls to a single, minimalist print, wall art will make your interior look complete. When it comes to your staircase, don’t be afraid to make bold choices. Because you don’t have to match your décor to any surrounding furniture, you can use your wall art as a statement piece. Experiment with vibrant colors and abstract subjects to make the biggest impact in your space.
Discover staircase wall decorating ideas >>
Staircase Wall Decor: Shapes
When browsing for wall art, the first step is to determine which space best fits your staircase. Follow our layout guide below:
The Foolproof, Classic Canvas: The Single-Panel Rectangle or Single-Panel Square
For a Narrow Staircase Space: The Single-Panel Vertical Canvas or the Single-Panel Panoramic Canvas
Multi-Panel for a Modern Look: The Triptych Tri-Panel Canvas or the Symmetrical Five-Panel Canvas
Contemporary and Ultra-Trendy The Split Two-Piece Canvas or the Four-Panel “Wave” Canvas
Funky and Full of Fun: The 7-Piece Hexagonal Canvas Set
Staircase Wall Decor: Pro Tips
Hanging your wall art above or below your staircase can be tricky, and it’s especially important to choose the right position. Follow our expert tip below to ensure that you hang your art at the correct height:
“Any designer will tell you that the most common mistake homeowners make, is hanging their art too high. Large wall art should be hung at eye level. While it may seem low at first glance, eye-level artwork is a longstanding gallery standard. Guests should not have to crane their necks to look at your prized prints. Your artwork should be in plain view, and blend seamlessly with the rest of your interior. If you’re hanging a piece of art above a piece of furniture, leave no more than 6”-8” in between the top of the furniture and the bottom of the print.”
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Staircase Wall Design Ideas: Sizes
Next, you have to choose the best canvas size for your stairway. This depends on a few crucial measurements, which we have outlined below:
Your wall art should take about 60% to 75% of the available empty wall space, the portion not covered by moldings or furniture. Measure the height and width of the wall. Now, multiply the measurements by both 0.6 and 0.75. As a result, you will get the range of canvas print sizes to suit the space.
For instance, if your blank wall is 9 feet tall and 5 feet wide, multiply 9 by 0.6 to get the low end of the ideal height range. Then multiply 9 by 0.75 to get the high end of the ideal height range. Do the same for your wall's 5 feet width. The ideal height of the canvas would be 5.4 feet - 6.75 feet and the ideal width would be 3 feet - 3.75 feet.
Staircase Wall Decor: Pro Tips
No matter what size you choose, it’s important to make sure your staircase doesn’t look too cluttered. You can ensure the right spacing by following this tip below:
“Leave enough room in between the edge of the wall and your canvas print. There should be at least a foot from where the wall ends, before your artwork begins. Hanging your art too close to the edge of the wall can make a space look cramped and disproportionate. Your interior should feel comfortable, so it’s important to avoid an unsettling layout. Give your home the greatest potential to feel open and welcoming.”
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Trending Styles & Design Concepts
Don’t let your space go to waste. Instead, choose a print that instantly captures your guests’ attention. Selecting a vibrant piece of artwork is the perfect way to give your interior a brand-new look in the blink of an eye.
A great way to bridge the gap between traditional and trendy décor is to choose a vintage-inspired print with a modern twist. Art director Tirzah Goodman has curated a special collection for 2023. Our Vibrant Vintage Floral collection is full of eye-catching patterns and vivid colors. These pieces will match both classic and contemporary décor, making them the perfect option for your staircase.
View staircase landing wall ideas >>
Color Scheme & Palette Ideas
Consider ultra-trendy tones like fuchsia and teal. The name of the game is choosing unexpected, bright colors to celebrate the end of summer. Keep the vivacious energy flowing throughout your space with the addition of a striking print. Whether you prefer warm or cool tones, make sure to experiment with daring shades.
Staircase Wall Decor: Pro Tips
Another vivid hue to consider is the super-hip, sunny yellow. ElephantStock's interior design expert Elimar Lobo Sáenz explains this joyful trend:
“Yellow, with its radiant charm, is the color of pure sunshine. When the summer season rolls around, this sunny color is always at the forefront of design trends. Yellow is said to represent happiness and a love of life and learning. This color exudes individuality and the desire for creativity and new ideas. Using yellow wall art will instantly invite warmth, happiness, and love into your home.”
Find the best stair wall design ideas >>
Calming Staircase & Hallway Wall Decor Ideas
When it comes to decorating the area leading up to your stairwell, creating a calming and peaceful atmosphere can help you unwind after a long day and set the tone for the rest of your home. One great decor idea is to incorporate soft, natural materials like a plush area rug or curtains made of linen or cotton. Adding some greenery, such as potted plants or a vase of fresh flowers, can also bring a sense of serenity to the space. Consider using soft, neutral colors for your walls and accessories, as they can create a soothing and harmonious atmosphere. You can also incorporate some cozy lighting, such as table lamps or string lights, to create a warm and inviting ambiance. Adding wall art to the area leading up to your stairwell can add another dimension to the decor and enhance the calming atmosphere. You can opt for a large statement piece that complements the color scheme or theme of the space. For instance, a serene landscape or an abstract painting with calming tones can create a focal point on the wall and set the tone for the rest of the area. Overall, incorporating calming decor ideas into the area leading up to your stairwell can help transform it into a peaceful oasis in your home.
Discover our collection of hallway and staircase wall ideas >>
More Interior Design Topics
For more interior design ideas, check out our decor inspo blog. We have expert articles to help you decorate every inch of your home. Once you’ve conquered your staircase, it’s time to find the right piece of art for every room in your house! Wall art is a timeless addition to any living space. It’s low-cost, low-commitment, and high reward!
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