Six things people with contemporary hallways have on their stairs: chrome finishes for a cool modern look

Often treated as just a walk-through space, hallways are often left a bit neglected by homeowners. Unloved staircases, dim or unconsidered lighting and narrow spaces can make them feel dated easily, yet clever design details can make a huge difference.

For those looking to introduce a more modern feel to their entryway, this latest accessories trend is an easy place to start. Chrome is making a major comeback in British homes, offering a sleek look that reflects light beautifully, making even the narrowest hallway feel brighter and more inviting.

Hallways and stair parts expert, Lucie Levesley, director at Jackson Woodturners said: “One of the staircase design trends we're seeing more and more right now is chrome. While brass and black have dominated the last decade, high-end interiors are seeing a resurgence in cool, silver tones. 

“Chrome stair parts bring a clean, modern finish to a staircase and work particularly well in contemporary interiors, helping to create a sleek and stylish space. Not only that, but mixing chrome with wooden stair parts, will help add durability to your staircase too.”

Lucie shares six easy ways to incorporate the chrome accessories trend into your hallway

The following tips take a look at six ways to use chrome detailing on the staircase to create a high-shine, high-impact entryway that feels both current and timeless.

1. Add statement chrome handrails or contrasting details

“Adding chrome to your handrails can give them a contemporary transformation. Make a statement by adding a fully chrome handrail the full length of your staircase, or opt for more subtle details by combining a warm wood finish, with cool chrome accessories for contrast. 

“A favorite design trick we are seeing is the use of a stained warm wood finish like oak or walnut, and then bookending it with flush-fit, polished chrome end caps and curved wall brackets. This is both visually effective and practical, as the mix of materials adds durability to high use handrails, meaning it won’t show wear and tear easily.”

2. Switch out traditional wood spindles for modern chrome

“Those who want to create a dramatic difference to their staircase, without making architectural changes, could consider switching out traditional wooden spindles, for chrome. The benefit here is that you can maintain the staircase's existing layout and banister structure.

“There are a few different chrome looks you could choose from to achieve this. From ultra-slim chrome spindles, to square edged or even a mixed spindle featuring both wood and chrome in the design. “

3. Let light in by combining chrome clamps, newel post caps and glass panels

“Switching from spindles on your balustrade, to glass panels will instantly modernise and brighten your staircase, allowing light to travel through the glass and around the space more easily. To elevate this further, choose chrome clamps to hold the glass panels in place and reflect even more light into the hallway.

“You can also select from a range of chrome finishes on your newel caps, to really finish off the entire staircase, tying your design together”

4. Install chrome lights to brighten the hallway 

“As hallways and staircases often lack windows for natural light, clever lighting solutions can really help transform the feel of the space. Statement chrome pendant lighting at the top staircase landing is a high impact way to illuminate it, and reflect light around the hallway. 

“For a modern feel, low-level lighting built into the wall just above the treads, or embedded into the risers themselves is particularly effective. Chrome spotlight style fittings will give a reflective contemporary look, and you could even try adding motion sensor technology, to give a luxury, high-end feel.”

5. Swap black or wooden frames and shelving brackets for chrome details

“If you have photos, prints, or mirrors decorating your hallway, the frames you choose will massively impact the impression your room gives. Switching from black or wooden frames to those with chrome details can help your artwork shine.

“This works for any shelving within the room, too. Swap out old brackets for chrome ones for a modern aesthetic."

6. Choose chrome hardware for doors, windows and light switches

“People often think about the finer details of a staircase, or decorative accessories; however, hardware for more practical parts of the room should be considered too. 

“Consider the material of your interior and exterior door handles, or that of your window handles. These small details all help tie the room together and create that modern aesthetic.”

For further inspiration on how chrome stair parts and room details can create a cool, refined feeling and contemporary finish, visit the Jackson Woodturners blog or YouTube channel.