This post shows you 20 chic staircase decorating ideas you can easily recreate at home.
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The staircase isn’t just a way to get from one floor to another, or from point A to point B – you can use the walls going up the stairs to display stylish decor that adds personality and charm to otherwise blank walls.
Adding decor to a stairwell is a great way to maximize the vertical space you have available. You don’t need to move furniture or reorganize any rooms, so it’s easier to accomplish (and the results speak for themselves).
The great thing about decorating the stairway walls is that you can go any direction with it. You can get really creative and unique, keep things minimal with simple art, or get the family involved with personal photos.
Styling the walls going up the stairs is something creative and dare I say fun you can do that really changes the atmosphere of the area. It makes everything feel more cohesive and styled.
Whether your style is modern and minimalist, cozy farmhouse, or vintage and eclectic, you’re bound to find an idea here. These 20 stairway wall decor ideas will help your transform your blank walls into a chic area in your home.
See related post: 20 Ideas How to Decorate a Large Wall in a Living Room
20 Clever Ways To Decorate The Wall Going Up The Stairs
1. Create a Gallery Wall
Why not try a gallery wall for your stairway wall space? It’s a great way to create a visual representation of your style.
Some people say gallery walls are predictable, but I don’t think they have to be! You can definitely make it your own by infusing your style and preferences into its design.
You can mix and match images like family photos, travel photos, abstract art, and even paintings for a personalized look.
Here’s more examples of gallery walls in stairways:
Chic boho gallery wall
Keep things cohesive and flowing, such as pairing countryside paintings with vintage sketches for a timeless feel, or black-and-white photos with minimalist line drawings for a modern look.
Wedding photos going up the stairs
If you love bold, colorful art, tie everything together by repeating a few key colors throughout your gallery.
Stairwell gallery wall with pops of color
Play around with frame styles and spacing to make it feel intentional—whether it’s a perfectly aligned grid or an organic, collected-over-time arrangement.
Eclectic stairway gallery wall
The best part? There are no strict rules—just a space that reflects you!
2. Make a Statement with a Large Focal Point
A single oversized piece of art can create a bold, modern look without overwhelming the space.
This is a great idea if you need a solution for a large blank wall on the stairs. It’s understated and impactful.
Plus, you fill up a lot of space with just one bold piece, so it’s less holes in the wall, and less measuring and mapping things out.
Go for any bold piece you like, such as a framed abstract painting, typography print, or even a textured wall hanging.
3. Showcase Family Photos
The staircase is the perfect spot for displaying family photos! Don’t worry, if you don’t have professional-looking photos, candid ones work just as well.
For my photo wall, I did a combination of couples’ photos, baby photos of my daughter, Ripley (our dog), and family photos together in a collage.
I thought about doing all black and white photos, but I put some colored ones in too, and I’m really happy with the overall look.
Go for black-and-white prints for a timeless aesthetic, professional photos with the same or similar filter, or mix different frame styles for a more eclectic look.
4. Incorporate Floating Shelves
Short on space? Install floating shelves along the stairway wall to showcase decorative items like candles, vases, and small sculptures while keeping things sleek.
5. Lean Into a Minimalist Look
If you love that clean, airy vibe, minimal stairway wall decor might be your jam.
Instead of packing the wall with tons of frames or knick-knacks, go for just a few thoughtfully chosen pieces—like three coordinating framed photos that speak to your style.
This kind of pared-down look adds a calm, sophisticated feel and works especially well in modern or Scandinavian-inspired homes.
Plus, it’s easier to update or swap things out later if you like switching things up!
6. Add a Vintage Touch with Antique Frames
If you’re into that collected-over-time vibe, antique frames are a perfect way to bring vintage charm to your stairway wall.
You can find them at thrift shops, flea markets, or even your grandma’s attic—and the more character, the better!
Mix and match ornate gold frames, weathered wood, or even chipped paint styles for a layered, old-world feel.
They look amazing grouped together in a gallery-style arrangement or as a standout piece mixed with modern decor.
This adds instant personality, especially on a staircase where walls can sometimes feel a little plain.
It’s an easy way to make your space feel intentional, curated, and full of stories!
7. Go Big with a Full-Length Mirror
Sometimes the best way to decorate a stairway wall is with one big, bold piece—and a full-length mirror totally delivers.
Not only does it add serious style points, but it also bounces light around, making tight stairwells or narrow spaces feel bigger and brighter.
Lean it casually against the wall for a relaxed, modern vibe, or mount it for a more polished look.
It’s a great way to add height, reflect your beautiful decor, and make even a small staircase feel open and airy.
It’s also super functional (who doesn’t love a last-minute outfit check on the way out?).
You can also do an accent mirror on your stairway wall if you don’t have room for a full-length mirror or would just prefer something smaller.
You can hang it with a gallery wall of photos and art, or hang it solo on the wall. Either way, it will look great and reflect light into your stairwell.
8. Turn Beach Vacation Photos into Chic Black & White Stairway Decor
If you’re not sure what to do with your stairway wall, here’s a fun idea: turn it into a black-and-white beachy memory lane.
Use vacation photos from your favorite tropical trips—surfing, zip-lining, sipping something fruity under a palm tree—you name it. Print them in black and white for that timeless, artsy vibe, and frame them up in a mix of black & white and gold frames.
The contrast keeps things chic, while the personal memories make it feel special.
It’s one of those “looks designer, but totally doable” decor moves that makes your space feel curated and cool without the stress.
9. Use Wall Sconces for a Cozy Glow
Looking to warm up your stairway without cluttering it? Wall sconces are every understated decor enthusiast’s dream!
Stylish wall sconces provide both ambient lighting and a decorative touch—plus they’re helpful in narrow staircases where you might not have room for artwork or shelves.
Choose modern black or brass finishes for a chic look, or go rustic farmhouse if you’re all about cozy vibes.
Bonus: they make those evening trips up and down the stairs feel soft and glowy instead of harsh and cold.
Easy upgrade, major impact!
10. Use a Stair Runner to Tie It All Together
Okay, technically a stair runner isn’t on the wall — but hear us out. If you’re styling your stairway wall, the runner plays a huge role in the overall look.
If your staircase is feeling a little bare or echoey, a runner can totally change the vibe, and it adds a layer to reduce sound vibration.
It adds texture, color, and personality while also being super practical—especially if you’ve got kids or pets.
Go bold with a patterned rug for extra visual interest or keep it chill with a neutral runner for that minimalist look.
It’s all about creating a space that flows from floor to frame!
11. Hang Woven Baskets for Texture
For a boho-inspired touch, arrange woven baskets in different sizes and patterns on the wall. This adds a layer of texture and warmth to your staircase wall decor.
12. Channel Country Charm with White Wood Frames
If you’re going for that serene, country cottage vibe on your stairway wall, white wooden frames are where it’s at.
They bring a soft, calming energy to the space and look especially beautiful with floral prints, photos of nature, or family moments.
The layered white-on-white feel keeps everything light and airy, while still adding charm and character.
Pair them with soft paint tones and cozy textures, and you’ve got yourself a staircase that feels like a peaceful little escape.
13. Display Your Favorite Pet Moments Up the Stairs
If you’re a proud pet parent, why not turn your stairway wall into a celebration of your furry (or feathered!) family members?
A pet-themed gallery wall is such a heartwarming and personal touch that adds playful charm to your home.
Use a mix of candid snaps, professional portraits, or even playful artwork of your pets.
Black-and-white photos look super polished, or go for full-color prints to show off those goofy grins and wagging tails.
You can even mix in nameplates or cute quotes like “Home is where the dog hair sticks.”
It’s such a fun and easy way to make your stairway feel more like you.
14. Use Wallpaper for a Bold Statement
Not sure what to do with that big empty stairway wall? Wallpaper is such an underrated way to make it pop.
Whether you go bold with a dramatic print or keep things soft and subtle with a textured neutral, it adds instant personality and charm.
You can go all in with a full-wall design or keep it simple with a half wall + chair rail combo for that extra bit of architectural interest.
It’s one of those upgrades that feels high-end but doesn’t have to break the bank.
And if you’re renting? Peel-and-stick wallpaper is your best friend.
15. Add Boho Vibes to Your Stairway Wall with Woven Decor
Love a relaxed vibe with a touch of wanderlust? A boho stairway wall is the perfect way to bring that energy home.
Layer in woven textures, sunburst mirrors, a cute straw hat, and some faux ivy for collected but natural feel.
It’s super easy to pull together and instantly adds whimsy and charm without trying too hard.
16. Make It Yours with DIY Art That Pops
Why not show off your creative side with some DIY art? This is a great way to display children’s art too! (If you’re a parent I’m sure you have a ton of kid’s art!)
Whether it’s abstract brushstrokes, cute quotes, or a hand-painted family monogram, making your own pieces adds serious personality to your stairway wall.
It’s budget-friendly, super fun, and lets you play with colors that match your space.
Plus, it makes your home feel uniquely you—no big-box decor needed.
17. Keep It Cozy with Neutral Decor and a Welcoming Wreath
Sometimes less really is more—especially when you’re going for that warm, inviting vibe.
A simple wreath paired with a small shelf and neutral-toned accents is such an easy way to make your stairway feel cozy without going overboard.
Think photo frames, candles, tiny vases, soft textures, and maybe a cute seasonal touch.
It’s subtle, it’s stylish, and it makes your home feel extra welcoming every time you head upstairs.
18. Add Texture with Macramé Wall Hangings
Want to give your stairway wall a little cozy-boho charm? Macramé wall hangings are where it’s at.
They bring in that handcrafted, laid-back vibe that instantly softens your space and adds texture without overwhelming it.
Perfect for narrow staircases or awkward wall spaces, macramé pieces can hang solo or be layered with baskets, small framed art, or floating shelves for an eclectic look.
You can go with a neutral tone for a minimalist touch or choose a piece with dipped color or fringe to make it pop.
It’s especially cute if you’re going for a Scandi-boho or modern farmhouse vibe.
Plus, they’re lightweight, renter-friendly, and a great way to support small makers or show off your own DIY.
19. Meaningful Stairway Wall Decor with a Faithful Touch
If you love adding meaning to your space, a faith-based stairway wall is such a beautiful way to do it.
Whether it’s uplifting Bible verses, spiritual quotes, or framed artwork that reflects your beliefs, this kind of wall decor brings comfort and inspiration every time you walk by.
You can add wooden elements and a floating shelf with some rustic decor, dried flowers, and a mini wreath for a cozy touch.
It’s all about creating a home that reflects you best!
20. Brighten Things Up with Botanical Prints
If your stairway wall is feeling a little blah, try adding some botanical art!
It brings a fresh, organic feel to your space—like an instant little glow-up.
Hang a few leafy prints with a console table by the base of the stairs, and finish the look with a round mirror and maybe a little vase of fresh greens.
It’s easy, breezy, and totally charming without trying too hard.
Final Thoughts
Your stairway wall can be quite a fun project to do that will completely transform the feel in your house. Whether you opt for a gallery wall with photos and/or art, or something black & white and minimalist, or light and airy and boho-inspired, these stairway wall decor ideas will (hopefully!) help you turn an overlooked space into a more ‘designed’ area in your home.
Which idea are you excited to try first? Let me know on Pinterest—I’d love to hear what you’re planning! Happy decorating! 🎨✨
This post showed you 20 clever ways to decorate the wall going up the stairs.
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