Due to their substantial size, staircases have an unmistakable presence, so lighting them with fashionable fixtures can help bring vibrance and character to an often-overlooked space. Staircase lighting ideas can range from simple sconces and wall-mounted fixtures to sleek pendants and elaborate chandeliers, each of which brings its own flair in keeping with the home’s design.

Depending on the size, shape, and location of your staircase, you will have a variety of creative lighting solutions to choose from to illuminate these high-traffic areas. By hanging an eye-catching piece, you can simultaneously display an artistic style while helping your home’s design feel more cohesive from top to bottom. Here are a few different popular staircase lighting ideas to spur your inspiration.

Ambient Staircase Lighting for a Cozy Atmosphere

First and foremost, staircases require ample lighting to provide safe navigation at night. Ambient fixtures that emit a warm glow while illuminating the entire space are a great option. With so many incredible staircase lighting styles to choose from, these fixtures can help level up a space that is often a focal point of your interior design style.

Somerset 11 Inch 1 Light LED Semi Flush Mount by Hinkley Lighting

@lemonleafhomeinteriors

A streamlined metal ring surrounding etched opal glass makes the Somerset 11 Inch 1 Light LED Semi Flush Mount by Hinkley Lighting a subtle ceiling fixture with quiet and precise sophistication. Showcasing a blend of both modern and vintage design, the chic and elegant Somerset emits a warm radiance that makes the staircase a stunning feature of the home.

Statement Chandeliers for Dramatic Staircase Lighting

Chandeliers have earned their right to be displayed anywhere in the home, and staircases are no exception. Many people have found that unique chandeliers have brought new life into these often open portions of the home by adding a sense of character and visual interest. More exquisite and artful shapes also enhance the drama inherent in your staircase, especially in the evening when the chandelier offers accent lighting on its own.

Tulane 35 Inch 8 Light Chandelier by Arteriors Home

@waterlilyinteriors, photography by @stylishproductions

Crafted from hand-cut wooden beads strung along an abaca-wrapped frame, the Tulane 35 Inch 8 Light Chandelier by Arteriors Home is light, airy, and sure to garner much-deserved attention. The large-scale open-form structure allows light to cascade down each layer and brilliantly light up its surroundings. With a traditional empire chandelier shape, it looks fantastic at all times of day.

Minimalist Staircase Lighting Ideas for a Clean Look

Not all staircases are built the same, and differences in size, shape, and clearance have a large impact on the lighting you can display. If the amount of space on your stairs is limited, condensed, or just on the smaller side, minimalist light fixtures can provide both functionality and style without making the walkway feel cluttered. Many modern luminaires have minimalist characteristics already, but flush mounts, sconces, and other lighting that’s close to the walls or ceiling are going to be your ideal choice.

Laval 10.5 Inch Wall Sconce by Hudson Valley Lighting

@thecouplethatflips

The vast amount of natural lighting from the windows in this staircase makes the Laval 10.5 inch Wall Sconce by Hudson Valley Lighting the perfect minimalist option for this contemporary staircase. Nicely tucked in the corner at eye level where the stairs change directions, slender and curved arms made of aged brass subtly protrude from the wall. These arms hold nuage glass globes that are etched on the inside, creating a speckled opal interior that produces an understated yet gorgeous lighting effect for an elegant yet nonchalant style.

Combining Natural and Artificial Lighting for a Bright Staircase

When a staircase features plenty of windows, it reaps the benefits of natural lighting during the day. Installing fixtures made of transparent materials like glass allows light to come in and reflect off of their features, immediately capturing the attention of anyone passing by. When natural light highlights the overall appeal of the fixture, it demonstrates the piece is as much a part of décor as it is lighting.

Gem 38 Inch LED Large Pendant by Hammerton Studio

@kristinashleyinteriors

The brilliant configuration of the Gem 38 Inch LED Large Pendant by Hammerton Studio makes this fixture an immediate stunner. Exemplifying jewelry for the home, the Gem Pendant is comprised of a hand-polished, oil-rubbed bronze frame that features bronze-tinted geometric glass orbs extending from the arms. Positioned perfectly above the table tucked in a spiral of this marvelous staircase, this pendant is something you can’t miss, whether bathed in natural light or ablaze with its own illumination.

Capitol Lighting has a huge selection of diverse fixtures in a wide variety of styles and designs, many of which can work for your staircase or anywhere else in your home. Check out our 2024 catalog today to browse all the latest interior design trends and most popular brands. If you see something you like, order online today or stop by one of our showrooms to take a look at our collection. At Capitol, we’re here to help you find the perfect home lighting solutions.