
Kara, an Atlanta homeowner whose 1911 Arts and Crafts home was recently featured on This Old House, knew that her home's sad, leaning staircase was in need of a renovation, for appearances and for safety's sake.
Here's how it looked prior to renovation.
To see its updated appearance, read more.

Thinking back on all the scrapes and bruises I acquired simply from falling down my stairs as an overly energetic kid, I cringe a little. But there was no stopping me, especially on the days (most) when I was late to school. If only my parents had thought to install some sort of no-slip system, I mightn't have been so black and blue.

In Rimrock Ranch, a home near Palm Springs designed by architect Lloyd Russell, which was recently featured in the
LA Times, spare modern architecture lends an urban style to the cowboy roots of the desert. Here, the steps to a kitchen set between two suites have a dual purpose. The wood planks were extended to serve as a side table for the rustic couch beside the staircase, relieving the need for additional furnishings.

The classic Shaker style of the
Gaiam Step Basket ($29, from $60) may not appeal to the modernists out there, but I think we can all appreciate its functionality. Maybe it's just me, but I think the mother of every friend I had growing up used to leave her family's things (sneakers, magazines, laundry, etc.) at the base of the stairs to be picked up. There's nothing neat about leaving things laying on the stairs, but a step basket will keep things looking tidy, and you can carry it with you on your way up.