Step Into Style: Elevating Everyday Spaces in San Antonio Homes
A stairway can be much more than a path between floors—it can be a statement. The Wall Street Journal’s October 25–26, 2025 Design & Decorating feature, “Time to Step It Up” by Christina Poletto, highlights how homeowners and designers are transforming staircases from blank transitions into personality-filled focal points.
From Functional to Fabulous
Designers like Sarah Henley and Corey Damen Jenkins shared how pattern, texture, and color can make a staircase part of a home’s story. Henley, working in a historic Rockport, Massachusetts waterfront home, used a grass-cloth runner trimmed with a blue linen border and layered with vintage rugs to blend coastal charm and modern flair. Jenkins, known for his Chesapeake Bay projects, mixed gilded tones and bold wallpaper to create depth and drama.
(Source: The Wall Street Journal, “Time to Step It Up,” Oct 25–26 2025)
(Source: The Wall Street Journal, “Time to Step It Up,” Oct 25–26 2025)
The article’s central takeaway: your staircase is an architectural opportunity, not an afterthought. Whether you’re inspired by boutique-hotel sophistication or timeless Southern charm, design elements like runners, art walls, lighting, and wallpaper can turn an everyday route into an experience.
San Antonio’s Own Design Moment
Here in San Antonio, stairway design is finding new expression in the city’s blend of historic and modern homes. From Monte Vista’s classic wood balustrades to sleek new builds in The Dominion and Alamo Heights, stairways are becoming statement pieces that reflect both the architecture and lifestyle of each property.
Luxury buyers today expect curated interiors—details that show thought and craftsmanship. Sellers who invest in design-forward touches often see greater engagement, both online and in-person showings. A striking staircase, well-placed lighting, or layered textiles can become a home’s “wow moment,” strengthening its first impression and its market appeal.
Design Takeaways for Homeowners
If you’re preparing to sell, consider:
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Texture and Warmth: Natural fibers, wood accents, or subtle metallics add dimension and photograph beautifully.
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Color with Intention: Coordinating a stair runner or art wall with your home’s palette makes spaces flow seamlessly between levels.
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Lighting and Scale: A sculptural fixture or wall sconce can highlight architectural lines and elevate mood.
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Art and Storytelling: A stairway gallery can tell your family’s story while helping buyers imagine themselves in the space.
Why It Matters in Today’s Market
With more balanced housing conditions and discerning luxury buyers, presentation matters more than ever. Small, high-impact updates—like those featured in The Wall Street Journal—create emotional connection and lasting value. In a market where listings compete on both lifestyle and location, design-minded homes consistently outperform.
Work With San Antonio’s Luxury Experts
Caroline Decherd and Susanne Marco of Park Properties Group understand that great design sells homes. From pre-sale consultations to marketing strategy, their team helps clients showcase architectural details that capture attention and command premium results.
Visit ParkPropertiesGroup.com or email [email protected] to connect with San Antonio’s trusted experts in luxury real estate, presentation, and market strategy.
