Live in a multi-storey home? Clever lighting is one of the easiest ways to turn your otherwise purely functional staircase into a show-stopping feature. From sleek modern designs to timeless classics, the right staircase lighting ideas can make your stairs not just functional but a beautiful design element in their own right. With the input of creative and inquisitive clients just like you, who always ask all of the right questions, let’s explore the most inspiring lighting trends for staircases in 2025 and beyond.
1. Staircase pendant lighting ideas for a dramatic effect
Pendant lights are obviously a highly popular choice for kitchens these days – but they also offer both style and functionality for your staircases, as well.
Why Pendants Work: Hanging pendants highlight the height and openness of your staircase, drawing the eye upward.
Design Tip: Use a cluster of pendants at varying heights for a modern, sculptural look.
Energy Tip: Opt for LED pendant bulbs to reduce energy usage while maintaining a stunning effect.
These staircase pendant lighting ideas are ideal for creating a dramatic and contemporary focal point.
2. Lighting for stairs and landing: Functional yet stylish
Properly lighting the stairs whilst also considering the landing area ensures safety while adding a touch of elegance.
Wall-Mounted Sconces: Install sconces along the wall for an even distribution of light.
Recessed Stair Lights: Place small LED lights into the stair risers to softly illuminate each step.
Landing Design: Add a pendant or semi-flush mount light on the landing for a balanced look.
For the perfect lights for stairs and landing, focus on blending functionality with your home’s overall aesthetic.
3. Staircase chandelier ideas: Timeless elegance
Nothing – simply nothing – adds a touch of grandeur quite like a chandelier. Ever thought about adding one over a staircase?
Choose The Right Scale: Ensure the chandelier fits the proportions of your staircase and ceiling height.
Modern Designs: Explore geometric chandeliers or minimalist options for a contemporary feel.
Classic Touch: Crystal chandeliers bring timeless sophistication to any space.
For luxurious staircase chandelier ideas, consider lighting that complements your home’s overall style while creating a statement.
4. Recessed stairwell lighting for a minimalist look
Recessed lighting is perfect for those who prefer a sleek, modern aesthetic.
Subtle Illumination: Install small recessed lights along the walls or underneath the stairs for a soft glow.
Energy Efficiency: Use dimmable LED lights to reduce energy consumption and customise brightness levels.
Safety First: Ensure even lighting to prevent shadows and enhance visibility.
This approach to stairwell lighting creates a streamlined, understated elegance.
5. Lights for the void: Highlighting open spaces
The ‘void’ refers to the open space around or above a staircase, often found in double-height areas.
Hanging Sculptural Fixtures: Fill the void with a statement pendant or chandelier to create visual interest.
Upward Lighting: Use uplights on the walls or floor to accentuate the vertical space.
Play With Shadows: Experiment with fixtures that cast unique shadows across the void for added drama.
Lighting specifically for the void ties your staircase into the broader architectural flow of your home.
6. Under-stair lighting for a unique ambiance
Make use of the space beneath your stairs, too, with creative lighting.
Accent Strips: Add LED strips under the staircase for a modern glow.
Ambient Lighting: Use soft lights to create a cosy nook or highlight storage solutions.
Custom Ideas: Install lights that align with shelving or decor beneath the stairs for added flair.
This approach to under stair lighting ideas is both functional and visually impactful.
7. Hallway and staircase lighting ideas for seamless flow
When your staircase connects to a hallway, it’s essential to create a cohesive look.
Consistent Fixtures: Use similar styles for the hallway and staircase to maintain design continuity.
Accent Lights: Highlight artwork or architectural details with strategically placed wall lights.
Layered Lighting: Combine ambient hallway lighting with focused stair lighting for a balanced effect.
This approach ensures your hallway lighting ideas complement the staircase seamlessly.
8. Colourful LED lighting for creative stairs
For a fun, modern twist, use LED lights to bring colour and vibrancy to your staircase.
RGB Strips: Install colour-changing LED strips along the handrails or steps.
Themed Designs: Choose a single colour to match seasonal decor or your home’s palette.
Programmable Lights: Use smart lighting LED systems to create dynamic effects and control via an app.
These stair lighting ideas are perfect for making your staircase stand out.
9. Natural lighting for staircases
Take advantage of natural light to enhance your staircase during the day.
Skylights: Install skylights above the staircase to flood the area with natural light.
Large Windows: Add floor-to-ceiling windows near the stairs for a bright, airy feel.
Reflective Surfaces: Use mirrors or glossy finishes to bounce light around the space.
Natural lighting adds a warm, inviting touch to your stairway light setup.
10. Accent lights for unique stairway features
Highlight architectural details or decor around your staircase with accent lighting.
Handrail lights: Install small LED strips along the handrails for a modern touch.
Artistic Focal Points: Light up sculptures, paintings, or decor along the stairway.
Directional Spotlights: Use adjustable spotlights to focus on specific features.
These are some of the best stairway lighting ideas to add personality and depth to your staircase.
Call Static Electrics for Pro staircase lighting solutions
Whether you’re just at the stage of looking for staircase lighting ideas or you’re ready for a complete lighting makeover, the Brisbane and Sunshine Coast lighting solution experts at Static Electrics can help. From installing custom staircase pendant lighting ideas to crafting stunning staircase chandelier ideas, we’re here to bring your vision to life.
For professional advice, energy-efficient solutions, and expert installation, contact the friendly team at Static Electrics today to discuss your lighting needs.