7 Unique Stairs Ideas to Spark Your Cabin Inspiration

We take stair design to the next level with these 7 unique stairs

Stairs can be strictly utilitarian – a means of getting from one floor to another. Or, they can be works of art and craft – divas that live for the spotlight. Cabin staircases are usually more practical than prima donna, but they can still provide a generous helping of character and charm. Whether you are renovating your cabin or just want to give your existing stairs a fresh look, you can find inspiration in these uplifting ideas. 1. Elevated Style. Why not add whimsical charm to your stairs? Nautical details, a stout rope railing and weathered wood make this Cape Cod cottage staircase special. Drawers concealed in the stair risers transform dead space into much-needed storage. Stairs with landings can be tucked into a corner of your cabin to save floor space. Designer: Deborah Paine, Inc., dpicc.com, (508) 349-9100 2. Railing Re-do. Are your stairs looking a bit behind-the-times? Replacing dated railings with a cable railing system gave this staircase a contemporary feel. Brushed stainless steel posts match the modern kitchen, while a barnwood accent wall keeps the overall feeling grounded and warm. Supplier: StairSupplies, stairsupplies.com, (866) 226-6536 3. The Artist’s Touch. Your cabin is one of a kind: Make your staircase unique, too, with handcrafted elements. Here, blacksmith and artist Glenn Gilmore custom-forged a burnished metal railing and balusters that resemble branches. You’ll see and feel the thoughtful touch in the detail every time you go up and down the stairs. Artisan: Gilmore Metalsmithing Studio, gilmoremetal.com, (406) 961-1861 4. Space Saver. When square footage is at a premium, a ladder can be an efficient alternative to full stairs, especially to access a loft. Depending on your needs, consider ladders that roll along a horizontal railing, those that lift out of the way using pulleys, or ladders with built-in handrails. Trading full stairs for a ladder in this renovated cottage made room for a dining area. Builder: Howell Custom Building Group, howellcustombuild.com, (978) 989-9440 5. Northwoods style. For true northwoods style, choose log stairs for your cabin. A classic design includes treads made from half logs set into full-log stringers that run the length of the stairs. Railings and balusters made from peeled branches or twigs complete the traditional look. Home producer: Tomahawk Log & Country Homes, tomahawkloghomes.com 6. Take a Seat. When is a staircase more than a staircase? When it’s a spot to read, doze or look out over a view. Plan ahead and you may be able to add a landing with space for a simple bench – or find room to create a mini-library area with seating space surrounded by bookshelves or cabinetry. Designer/Builder: Custom Home Group, customhomegroup.com, (717) 284-4090 7. Round & Round. The big advantage of spiral stairs is that they save space. Here, a set of exterior aluminum stairs connects one level of outdoor living space to another. Powder coating helps the stairs stand up to weather, while grating on the treads provides traction and keeps water from pooling. Supplier: Salter Spiral Stair, salterspiralstair.com, (800) 368-8280