An Expert Reveals How to Upgrade & Renovate an Existing Staircase

Lighting can also play a big role in making your staircase stand out. Adding LED strip lighting along the handrail or low-level riser lights can create a dramatic evening effect and improve safety. That said, this would typically only look at home in a more modern dwelling.

How much do easy staircase renovations cost?

Staircase costs can be tricky to estimate as they will vary vastly depending on size of the project, materials used and even location of the house. For example, hiring a professional painter typically costs over £200 per day, while cladding the existing steps could range from £1,000 to £2,500.

If you’re looking to save money, some tasks can be done yourself on a DIY basis – such as painting the staircase or stripping the old paint – which can significantly reduce costs. Additionally, upgrading to new handrails and glass balustrades could cost up to £2,000.

Should I replace or reposition my staircase?

When the staircase location no longer serves the layout – or worse, becomes a safety concern – it may be time for more radical action. Replacing or moving a staircase can transform how you live in your home, unlocking new potential and improving both access and flow.

When is it worth relocating a staircase? Often in older period properties, staircases were tucked into corners or partitioned away, limiting headroom and making upper floors feel disconnected. In these cases, a central repositioning can improve sight lines, make upstairs rooms feel more integrated, or create space for a future loft conversion. Alternatively, relocating the stairs may be necessary to open up a kitchen-diner or to link previously separated living spaces.

Richard Burbidge products were used to spruce up the existing staircase in this flat renovation. The flight’s old wooden spindles were replaced with a wooden balustrade with metal detailing that complements the interior palette of the apartment

Planning ahead is crucial. If you’re considering a loft conversion – now or in future – staircase position will impact the entire configuration. The new flight must meet headroom requirements (a minimum of 2m at the centre line, under Building Regulations) and not compromise existing rooms. Even if the loft project is years away, factoring the next flight into your stair design now can save costly rework later, so it’s worth thinking ahead.

Building Regulations will apply when you’re moving a staircase, changing its pitch or altering its structure. That said, while simply redecorating or changing balustrades may not trigger compliance with current regs, anything structural will – including replacement with a new staircase, repositioning or material changes that affect performance (like removing a handrail).

Which staircase style & design is right for me?

Staircases are sculptural elements that deserve design attention. Whether you prefer traditional elegance or minimalist modernism, the market now offers an extensive range of bespoke and modular options. However, it is worth considering how they fit with the overall aesthetic and design of your home.

For period properties, timber staircases with turned spindles and carved newel posts can echo original details while allowing for updated finishes to be incorporated. If you have a more contemporary home, try opting for open-tread flights, floating cantilevered steps, or combinations of glass, steel and timber to match your modern style.

This unusual staircase was unloved, with basic plywood treads and a carpet which needed replacement. Kloepping TSS replaced the treads with solid oak to give the staircase a new lease of life that will last decades. The total cost for refurbishment was £3,400 + VAT

Space-saving staircases, such as alternating tread or spiral designs, may be permissible for loft access or in very tight areas, but these often come with restrictions – for example, only being allowed to serve a single room. For open-plan homes, a feature staircase can act as a striking focal point. Consider a sculptural spiral in steel or a helical staircase to really add some visual drama. But remember: these bespoke designs often come with longer lead times and heftier price tags.

How can a staircase renovation impact my house’s internal structure?

Repositioning a staircase is never a standalone job. It can affect adjacent rooms, floorplans and structural walls – so expect knock-on works and plan for them in your budget. If you are moving a staircase you will most likely have damage to the current location, meaning you may need to replaster and redecorate across multiple floors. In addition, you will need to create a new structural opening for the relocated flight, which can in itself be complex. If this is the case, you may need to include:

• Reinforcing or adapting floor joists to accommodate new openings.
• Rerouting of plumbing, electrics or ducting around the new location.
• Adjustment of landings or installation of new balustrades.
• Applying for Building Control approval, which you will need before commencement.
• Checking if your project might be impacted by party wall regulations.

All of this means the job typically involves joiners, structural engineers, and possibly an architect or designer. You may also need planning permission in listed buildings or conservation areas. Expect at least two weeks on-site for a typical replacement, and longer for bespoke or repositioned flights.

FAQs

What are some key indicators that my staircase needs to be completely replaced?

• If your staircase’s treads are creaky, uneven or unsafe, it’s probably wise that you look at replacement flights.
• If you need to improve access or headroom, opting for a new staircase instead of renovating might be a good idea.
• If you’re altering the floorplan or adding a loft – even if these might be on the cards in the future, it’s best to plan for the stair position now.

Which specific Building Regulations do I need to remember?

Building Regulations can be slightly different across different local authorities, as each nation has devolved responsibility for them – so always check the latest applicable rules at the earliest opportunity. These are the key rules, though:

• Minimum 2m headroom on main stairs (1.9m for lofts with sloped ceilings).
• Maximum rise (height) per step: 220mm; minimum going (tread depth): 220mm; stair pitch under 42°.
• Handrails required on one side (both if a flight is greater than 1m wide).

Is a staircase renovation really worth it? 

Putting time and money into altering your staircase is about much more than simply appearances. It can allow for greater access and flow between different levels, improve your home’s safety, increase natural light levels and futureproof your property for mobility or loft access.

Ultimately, a staircase can elevate your renovation from functional to transformative. Along with the hallway, it is the one item that flows throughout a home. So, although it’s a feature of a property that some might overlook, it should be a core consideration in any build or renovation to ensure it contributes to a showstopping transformation, creating impact and improved flow throughout.

At what stage of a project should I engage a staircase specialist?

“It’s important to get a specialist on board as early as possible. For a renovation, ideally as soon as the project is specified, as the structure will have a large impact on all aspects of design when modernising or updating the interior. A specialist will bring a fresh perspective and valuable experience to the project to help you choose between the options and design details on offer,” says Richard McLane, founder and design director at Bisca.