Edwardian Staircase Refurbishment: Combining Old and New

With a staircase renovation, you can introduce a bold new look in both appearance and atmosphere. A thoughtfully built staircase does more than provide access between floors—it enhances your property’s first impression from the moment you open the door.

Improving worn-out stairs is important for peace of mind, and it’s a great opportunity to improve your home’s style too.

Checking If Your Stairs Are Suitable for an Upgrade

Reflect on whether your staircase aligns with the look and feel of your home before updating it. Before beginning work, confirm whether your staircase changes are allowed under planning laws. Even if your house isn’t listed, inspect the staircase for signs of weakness and potential risks. Consider what you’d like to achieve—can your existing stairs support the level of renovation you have in mind?
Assess your renovation goals and whether your stairway as it stands can support your ideas.
Ask yourself your staircase is suitable for the changes you’re planning.
Be clear on what you want to do and whether your stairway are ready for the changes.
Does your staircase have the strength needed to withstand what you're planning?
Before you begin, consider whether your stairs can realistically take the updates.
Know your goals and check if your staircase can safely handle the update.
Plan your renovation with your staircase’s present structure in mind.
Will your current stairway accommodate the design changes you’re preparing for?
Think through your design plans—can your current stairs handle that level of change?

Traditional homes with wooden staircases can often be transformed with DIY efforts, such as updating the treads or fitting a stylish balustrade.
Heritage properties with wooden staircases can often be refreshed through DIY updates like replacing the steps or banisters.
You can give traditional stairways in vintage houses a fresh look by replacing treads or adding a handrail.
Simple DIY upgrades like replacing the stair boards or fitting a new handrail can transform period staircases.
Wooden stairs in older homes often respond well to basic improvements like tread replacement or balustrade updates.
Many heritage steps can be refreshed with DIY projects, especially by replacing steps or banisters.
Wooden staircases in heritage properties often benefit from basic improvements like modern or classic balustrade additions.
Swapping out old treads or adding a new balustrade can help refresh a traditional stairway.
If you have a wooden staircase in an older home, some DIY work may be all it takes to refresh it.
Basic updates like replacing treads or fitting a balustrade can revitalise or improve a wooden staircase in a period property. For a total revamp, it’s recommended to speak with an expert early on, comparing the financial and design aspects of removing and rebuilding versus upgrading what's there.
If you're planning a complete overhaul, talk to someone experienced early to evaluate rebuilding and restoring.
Big changes to your staircase should start with expert advice to consider costs and possible outcomes.
When considering a full staircase update, a professional can help you determine whether to rebuild or upgrade.
Before going ahead with a major renovation, get a pro's opinion here on whether to rebuild or work with the current setup.
A complete staircase overhaul should include specialist advice to weigh the pros and cons of each route.
Talking to a staircase expert early can help you decide between starting over or upgrading your current setup.
If a total renovation is on the table, consider the time and effort involved with help from a qualified advisor.
For big renovations, it’s smart to get advice from someone experienced in both refurbishing and rebuilding.
Plan carefully for a full staircase renovation by speaking with a professional and comparing all options.

Do Stair Modifications Require Building Approval?

No matter the size of your staircase project, ensure you’re aware of what the regulations expect. Like-for-like repairs in heritage properties often fall outside modern building rules.

However, if reworking the core structure of the staircase, you must comply with Part K of the Building Regulations, which covers:
If you’re modifying the shape of your stairs, you’ll need to follow Part K of the Building Regulations.
Making big changes to your staircase design means you must comply with Part K of the building rules.
Modifying the staircase’s form or alignment requires you to meet the standards set in Part K of the regulations.
If your renovation includes structural changes, you’re legally required to follow Part K guidelines.
Redesigning the design or arrangement of your staircase means it must meet the standards of the rules in Part K.
Part K of the Building Regulations applies when you make any major alterations to your staircase layout.
Changing the core format of your stairs will mean following strict rules under Part K.
Substantial modifications to your staircase will need to meet the official standards set out in Part K.
You must follow Part K standards if you’re changing how your staircase is structured or designed.
If your project involves altering the core design of your stairs, Part K regulations will be enforced.

• Steps should have a minimum horizontal depth of 220mm to comply with the rules.


• Each step's vertical rise should not be greater than 220mm.


• The nosing should stick out no more than 25mm, and steps must be even and stable.


• Part K calls for a minimum of two metres head clearance, or 1.8 metres if the stairs are in a converted roof space.


• The opening between stair treads should not allow a 100mm ball to fit through.

Get clear guidance by contacting your local authority or a certified expert, especially since requirements vary locally.

Bringing Your Current Set of Stairs a New Lease of Life

Issues such as shaky handrails and squeaky stairs tend to come up during renovations. A wobbly balustrade may need glue and screws, or in some cases, structural strengthening with another stringer. Installing extra support can help when minor fixes don’t work. Creaks often result from loosened fixings or aged timber—these can sometimes be repaired, but severe damage may require a full fix. Most creaks come from unstable connections or old wood, and while small issues can be fixed, badly damaged parts may need replacing. Older staircases often have bulky newel posts that can be cut back for more room, if the supporting structure is sound.

Quick Ideas to Update Your Staircase

You can give your staircase a quick update using paint, a new runner, or new treads and balustrades. Pulling back the carpet could uncover original wood that are ideal for refinishing.

Always check for lead paint before starting work, and follow protective advice if it’s present. Check under any boards placed over the stairs to see what lies beneath. Older mouldings may require restoration, and uncovered stair timber can be upgraded with paint, stain, or cladding.

Why a New Staircase Could Be the Smarter Choice

A full replacement may be more affordable in the long term if the stairs are in bad condition. Replacing your stairs with a comparable layout is usually efficient, but changing their shape or position takes more planning. Getting input from a structural engineer is strongly recommended when making changes to your staircase.

Choosing the Right Staircase Design

You can choose from a range of designs like spiral, floating, cantilevered, or freestanding staircases. Exposed-back stairs can be unsafe for toddlers, so safer alternatives like solid steps and low risers may be better. A professional assessor can look over your layout and advise on the best design. Correct positioning is important when relocating your staircase, and a specialist can help maximise flow.

Key Points on Staircase Refurbishment Costs

Don’t settle for the first price—compare different providers and ask for clear cost listings. DIY can be cheaper upfront, but you’ll need to budget for tools, materials, and disposal.

Upgrading Your Stair Balustrade

Narrow staircases (below 1000mm) only need a handrail on one side, but those over 1 metre require handrails on both. Modern balustrades are typically made from hardwood, brushed steel, or safety glass.

Toughened glass boosts both design and openness, but the price varies based on the installation method.

Making the Staircase Part of Your Design Vision

Ask yourself if the stairs should match the room’s aesthetic or draw the eye. For a sleek look, try black stairs and steel-glass features; for softer spaces, oak pairs beautifully with greys.

Matching the handrail timber with other joinery help create a balanced look, and subtle finishes like brass spindles add a polished touch.

Ways to Make the Most of Unused Stair Space

1. A smart cloakroom addition beneath the stairs is great for guests and adds value—just ensure you follow plumbing advice.


2. Built-in pull-outs and hanging space beneath the stairs help keep hallways clutter-free.


3. Turn your under-stair area into a mini wine cellar with built-in lights.


4. Design a Home Office – Install a bespoke desk and shelving, with concealed access panels.
   Transform the space into a discreet work zone with built-in shelves and a custom desk.
   Use the area for a compact office setup—add built-in storage and concealment to keep it neat.
   A small desk and shelving unit under the stairs makes a great hidden office zone.
   Fit a bespoke home office under the stairs, complete with a discreet closing system.
   Create a low-profile office area by installing a fitted workspace with concealed doors.
   Add a made-to-measure desk and shelves to make a clever under-stair work area.
   Design a mini office in the space with custom fittings and hide it with sliding doors.
   A built-in office nook under the stairs is perfect for getting things done in a small space.
   Use custom-built furniture to build an office nook under the stairs with sliding door panels.
   Turn an empty under-stair area into a home office with shelves, a desk, and sliding door cover.


5. Link the kitchen and under-stair space to enhance practicality.

Illuminate Your Stairs Effectively

Bright, well-placed lights help avoid trips while enhancing the overall appearance. Let’s look at some ideas:

• You can fit lights within the steps for a sleek, modern look.


• You can use wall-mounted lighting near the steps to provide a soft glow along the stairs.


• Overhead lights offer safe navigation and a sleek design finish.

Look for lighting that works well and complements the style of the staircase without causing glare.

To Sum Up:

By carefully planning your staircase renovation, you can create a standout design element that elevates your home’s interior. From small-scale changes to complete overhauls, a well-thought-out staircase design remains both useful and attractive.