Upstairs Downstairs
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Custom stainless rails, chunky oak treads, and open risers create a light-filled welcome to this suburban Maryland home. The clients, who opted to update the old transitional staircase, wanted a lighter, more open foyer space to reflect their modern aesthetic and make more room for art.
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The homeowners also hoped to extend the staircase all the way to the basement — instead of having to access the lower level through a door to separate stairs. The result: a more open feel and better connection to the rest of the house.
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A trio of square openings carved out of an existing solid wall creates new sightlines and interesting angles.
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Hardwood flooring replaces carpet on the second floor landing to continue the stairs’ organic texture and match existing flooring throughout the house.
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Natural light from two skylights now floods the foyer from the second floor landing.
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Simpler columns carry the foyer’s clean details outside to the front porch, where an additional window and existing art glass double door allow even more light inside.