Decorating Ideas for the Bottom of Curved Stairs

A grand, sweeping staircase that curves down into your foyer makes quite an impression on guests entering your home. However, as beautiful as such a staircase is on its own, it will look incomplete without furnishings and decoration, especially around the base. When you decorate this area, the furnishings anchor your staircase while the accessories draw your eye to this lovely focal point, and also give a welcoming, completed look to your foyer. Does this Spark an idea?

The Basics for Your Foyer

At a minimum, a foyer with a grand staircase should include a beautiful chandelier that is proportionate to the staircase. The grander the staircase and the larger the room, the grander and larger the chandelier should be. Place a beautifully framed mirror, also in proportion to the room, on the wall so guests can quickly check themselves as they enter your home. An umbrella holder is a smart idea as well. Place a rug at the bottom of the staircase; a nonskid rug pad is a must for the safety of those stepping off the stairs onto the rug. If the stairs are carpeted, choose a rug that coordinates with the carpet. Scented candles are a nice addition, as guests will smell the delicious scent upon entering your home.

Ideas for a Small Foyer

Staircases can be quite large, and in some cases may not leave much room in your foyer for furnishings or decor. However, there are plenty of options for a tight space. Consider placing a large urn inside the curve, or try a small but elegant pedestal table topped with a lush floral arrangement. If there's room, place a small entry table under a wall mirror. Tuck a small but comfortable chair into the side of the table, or if there is room, place two chairs together to create for a sitting area. If your foyer is very small, try grouping several tall, slim floor candlesticks of varying heights at the base of the stairs. Wall art completes the look.

Ideas for a Large Foyer

A large foyer affords room for more substantial furnishings. Try placing a small side table between two lounge chairs, or skip the chairs and place a larger round table and a tall, showy floral arrangement in the center of the foyer. Depending upon the layout of your foyer, you may be able to create a reading nook or small library by lining a back or corner wall with handsome built-in bookshelves and setting out a comfortable reading chair. A large piece of art, such as a sculpture or a painting on a display easel, is a classic statement. A table near the door creates a spot to set keys or mail, while a chair there is handy for those who are taking off or putting on rain boots.

Holiday Decor

A curved staircase makes a lovely canvas for holiday decorations, and because it is in your entryway, your holiday decorations will be seen and enjoyed by all who come to your front door. At Christmas, place your Christmas tree along the inner curve of the staircase, so that the banister curls around and frames it. The banister is prime hanging territory, so load it up with lights, ribbons and garlands. If you prefer to keep your Christmas tree in your den or living room, place two small pine trees in urns at the base of the stairs, one on each side.

A curved staircase is also a fun spot to put up spooky Halloween decorations. Hang faux cobwebs from the railings, and at the base of the stairs place larger items such as a pumpkin topiary, realistic-looking plush black cats and faux tombstones. If you have a chair in this area, seat a life-sized scarecrow or a Frankenstein doll in the chair.