How about rope?

Electrical conduit, left raw in zinc finish or painted any color you want.

But I like the rope idea better!

Both great ideas.....Thank you!

Yikes those are some steep narrow stairs!

Indeed they are. Need to figure that hand rail out pronto. Because of the way the cottage was designed, it was either steep steps or a ladder....decided to go with the prior. The whole cottage is just over 600 sq ft so we need all the sleeping space for friends we can create.

Oh..ladder!? Can you mount ladders slightly out from the wall? Is there enough depth to do that?

You'll need to make sure you can hold onto something very sturdy taking that first step down, because you'll be stepping sideways and down at the same time.

That's a great idea too! Not sure about the depth....will have to measure next time we are up north. Thanks for getting the creative juices flowing. Also thought about an oar/paddle? Not sure if it would look strange?

Just curious as to what furniture is up there? Sounds like a fun place and your friends have to appreciate it.

Love the rope handrail. To play up the nautical lake house vibe I'd add boat cleats every so often to tie off and support the hand rail. The empty wall space would be perfect for a pair or large porthole mirrors.

No furniture yet, just a couple twin mattresses. My son (17yr) and his friends have slept up there....No complaints. Funny, it's such a small space but that's where they wanted to hang out.

Porthole mirrors. Going to have to keep my eyes open for something like that.....maybe Hobby Lobby?

I've made a coat hooks using cleats. Go to thrift stores, consignment stores and boating stores to buy more interesting ideas at a lake house. Check out etsy for some personalized items. Have fun!

This is completely illegal construction. Better bump up your home owners insurance.

Please rethink this.