DIY - Smart Staircase Lighting using Arduino Nano & IR Sensor

Overview

Automatically lights a staircase as someone approaches, and turns off once they've passed — an energy-saving automation project built around IR proximity sensing.

How It Works

1. IR proximity sensors at the top and bottom of the staircase detect approaching movement.
2. The Arduino Nano turns on the LEDs for that section of the staircase.
3. The lights switch off automatically after a short delay.

Complete Parts List

You Will Also Need

A USB-A to USB-C cable to connect the Arduino Nano C-Type to your computer and upload code — not included in this kit.

Applications

• Energy-saving home automation
• Safety lighting for stairwells and hallways
• Hands-on intro to IR sensing and automated lighting

Full Build Guide

Step-by-step instructions and code for this exact project are on Project Hub.

FAQ

Do I need coding experience? No prior experience is required — this kit is built around one specific project, and the full code is freely available. See the build guide above.

What tools do I need beyond what's included? A computer with the free Arduino IDE (or ESP32/ESP8266 board support, where applicable) installed to upload the code. No soldering is required for this build. You'll also need a USB-A to USB-C cable to connect the board — not included.

Can I reuse the parts afterward? Yes — every component in this kit is a standard, reusable part you can use in future projects, not a single-use kit.