So, I recently renovated my basement and took down the wall at the bottom of the stairs where the light switch was located. Now, I'm stuck deciding where to move the switch. Originally, it was on the right as you walked down. The basement now has matching railings on both sides, which gives it an open feel. This switch controls lights in two zones: Zone 1 on the left and Zone 2 on the right, with Zone 2 connected to a 3-way switch at the top. I've thought of a few options for relocating the switch:
1. Place it right in front of you as you walk down the stairs, in the middle of the wall.
2. Have a U-turn to the left into the room and walk a few steps back past the cutout.
3. Install it halfway down the stairs on either side.
What do you all think?
2 Answers
Option 1 seems like the way to go! It’s the most intuitive spot for flipping the switch on and off while you’re heading up and down the stairs. Plus, you might want to consider having the stairway on its own 3-way circuit for added convenience!
What about Option 4? You could install a column at the bottom of the stairs for the switch. Just make sure you have the railing or slats on the right to stay code compliant since you can’t leave five steps open. It might give a nice structure to the bottom area too!
Great idea! But I think I prefer the open feel without adding a column since we’re going for a more spacious look.
Thanks for the input! I already have it set up as a 3-way switch at the top, just worried the middle placement will look odd.