Step Up Your Home's Functionality With Ladders of All Kinds

Ladders traditionally have lived the quiet life, tucked away in utility cupboards and garages. We tend to bring them out only when we need to change a lightbulb or clean out the gutters. But today we're seeing the ladder concept used in more and more innovative and delightful ways.

Check out these rooms that give the humble ladder a new lease on life.

Rolling metal ladder. Fashioned with the same purpose in mind as the traditional wooden rolling library ladder, these ladders are designed with a roller assembly that allows them to move smoothly back and forth across a track. A hook and slide fixture is also available for when the ladder needs to be repositioned.

Tip: Make sure the climbing angle of the rolling ladder is no more than 17 degrees — anything steeper would be unsafe.


Lettered ladder. Bunk beds are a terrific space-saving idea for bedrooms. Kids love to sleep on the top, so make it extra fun to get there.

Tip: For custom designs like this, make sure your carpenter follows weight guidelines. Kids grow a lot — think about how long they'll sleep in the bunk and work back from that age and weight.


Loft ladder. A lofted space like this has tons of potential — extra room for the kids, a spare office area or just helpful storage. Whatever you end up using a loft for, make sure the access is safe and attractive.

Tip: Loft ladders should have hand rails at the top for safety— the recommended length of the top rail is 24 inches. Check the building regulations in your area and confirm with your loft ladder manufacturer before ordering.


Metamorphic library ladder. Many ladders combine beauty and function, like this metamorphic library ladder; pieces like these were originally designed in the mid-18th century for European nobility. Then, most libraries had bookshelves that went all the way up to the ceiling. With a few flips, this chair instantly becomes a ladder, allowing visitors to gain access or be comfortably seated.

Tip: These chairs are quite rare and highly sought after when they come onto the market. Contact your local antiques dealer or auction house to get the scoop on when one might come in.


Powder-coated pipe-rail ladder. These black powder-coated-steel pipe rails take the ladder concept to a new level. Industrial but affordable, this custom solution gets an elegant upgrade with flat matte paint.

Tip: Pipe rail is available in several sizes. Size 5, for example, has an outer diameter of about 1 inch and is suitable for light frames. The sizes go up to size 9, which has an outer diameter close to 2 inches and is suitable for weight bearing. Check with your builder or manufacturer before purchasing. Purchasing precut lengths can help you keep costs down.


Ladder light fixture. If you are a creative soul and like using your hands, a project like this one will bring you and your guests great pleasure.

This rustic ladder hanging by bronze chains holds simple but effective mason jars, tea lights and a Moravian star — all ready and waiting for your next summer dinner party.


Outdoor ladder. A permanent, sturdy ladder like this takes a practical approach to easy roof access. If you plan to put it in clear view, like this simple ladder, make sure it's attractive and appropriate to your home's architectural style.

Tip: This is a terrific idea if you want to make the most of a view or just want to make cleaning out gutters or washing skylights easier. But it might be best to hold off on this installation entirely if you have small children.

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