How to block off an area - but still access it

WestonDave

Simplest solution would be to nail/screw two thin battens to both sides of the stairs where you want to block off just far enough apart to slide a piece of perspex down in between. You can get sheet perspex from DIY sheds - Wickes is probably cheapest - its easy enough to cut to shape and some DUCK tape will protect the edges if you want to (I've got a sheet in front of my video etc to stop the kids pressing buttons and the grey tape makes it look like part of the grey TV stand!). Its clear so will allow the light through and far too smooth to be climbed. The battens can be painted to match the existing decor and during the day it will just look like a little slot down the wall. The perspex panel can be lifted out during the day and stashed somewhere and just slotted back in at night.