Lighting built into and around staircases can be a game-changing design feature, turning a functional feature into a captivating design statement. It’s important to understand all the pros & cons. For example, if the lights fail, can they be replaced, and who will do it? Also, lights placed at a low level will show off all the dust and any imperfections. Raising the lights into the wall rather than the staircase itself can alleviate these issues. It’s also worth noting that Abbott-Wade to not install staircase lights; however, we have worked alongside our clients’ own electricians to fulfil the vision of staircase illumination!
In this article, we explore creative and stylish lighting ideas that illuminate staircases in stunning ways. From sleek LED strips along treads for a modern, minimalist look to warm, recessed lights that add an inviting glow, these photos highlight how lighting can enhance safety, ambience, and style. Whether you’re looking for subtle elegance or dramatic effects, these staircase lighting ideas will inspire you to brighten up your home in the most innovative ways.
1. Zig-Zag stairs with lights in the walls
These zigzag walnut & stained oak stairs are lit by lights fitted into the wall through this 3-storey home. Read the Case Study.
2. Light up the first step
Lights fitted under the tread of this first feature step enhance this light, bright entrance hall.
3.   Black & light
Our onyx-stained oak stairs have been fitted with lights in the stringers, which can be seen shining through these grey glass panels. Read the customer review.
4. Under the treads
These downlights under the bullnose of each oak tread illuminate every step of this oak staircase.
5. Light up every third step
Each third step of this staircase renovation has been fitted with a light in the stringer, which emphasises the weave of the stair carpet.
6.   Arched wall lighting
A bold and effective design choice with arches recessed into the wall of the stairwell, illuminating the full staircase.
7. LED lighting under the handrail
A different but effective approach to integrated staircase lighting, this client has installed lighting behind the wall handrail to add a continuous low-level light through the entirety of the staircase.
8. Reflective glass & steel
This cut string staircase uses lights built into the wall to light up every step. The reflective properties of the full-height Frameless Glass panels and stainless steel handrail add an extra layer of interest.
9. Illuminated White risers
The lights built into this two-tone staircase add a level of brightness when placed next to the brilliant white risers.
10.   Lights set into the floor
Lights have been built into the half landing of this walnut staircase to emphasise the texture and shadow of this feature wall. Read the Case Study.
Uplighting in this style can be a more unusual way of making the most of your staircase. Floor recessed uplights have been used to boost the general lighting levels and help emphasise the textures these stairs can create.
11. Lanterns on the stairs
Tucked into the corners of this half landing so they don’t present a trip hazard, these lanterns are a classy, non-permanent lighting solution for these stairs. Read the Case Study.
12. Lighting the understairs storage
It’s not just the stairs themselves that can benefit from integrated lighting. This integrated wine cabinet, designed and installed by Abbott-Wade, becomes a showstopper thanks to the built-in lighting.
13. Walnut, Glass & Steel
14. Modern lighting combination
Different staircase lighting ideas can be combined to make a modern marvel. Consider lights hanging at multiple heights and recessed LED lights winding down the staircase. Discreet LED downlights could also be used to light art wonderfully, or if your art is on the stairs, miniature surface-mounted spotlights can be used to illuminate it.
15. Lights under the treads
Blue lighting under each open tread allows an extra level of interest from above and below this staircase.
16. Stained Staircase Lighting
17. Lights under the baserail
18. Frameless glass & oak
19.   Wall recessed stair lights
On both classic wooden stairs with runners and stone steps with iron balustrades, wall recessed stair lights can add a real wow factor. Set them higher for a wash of light, and lower in the strong for more of a skimming effect across the tread. The choice is yours for whatever effect suits your surroundings best.
Uplighting can be a more unusual way of making the most of your staircase. Floor recessed uplights have been used to wash the gentle curve of the underside of the stairs and have also been set into the tread itself for a wash of uplight. This helps boost the general lighting levels and helps emphasise the textures and curves stairs can create.
20. Candles on the stairs
Discuss your ideas with the experts
If you’re looking to revamp your existing staircase or build a brand-new one, be sure to get in touch with the staircase specialists here at Abbott-Wade.
Once we know the basics, we can then get started on creating a design that’s both functional and stylish.
To speak to a member of the team directly, call 01744 634 442 today.
