One of the most functional elements in a multi-storey home, your staircase is what helps you get from one level to the next. But it’s also so much more than that! A well-designed staircase can be the highlight of your décor. It can blend with the design theme or choose to stand out. When it comes to the staircase handrails, balustrades, risers or treads, the design possibilities are limitless.
It’s always good to be practical, but a little bit of innovation and creative thinking can transform your utilitarian staircase into a head-turner. Here, we’ve curated modern, classic and traditional staircase ideas that are a step above the rest (see what we did there?)!
Check out our gallery of staircase railing design ideas, and take your pick!
Scandinavian Décor
Scandinavian style is all about modern decor sensibilities, using a lot of light wood and metal, and this staircase perfectly encapsulates this décor theme. With a bare-boned skeletal frame, the wooden treads of this floating straight staircase are supported by a single central metal rib. While this design forgoes the idea of handrails altogether, if you’re queasy about walking down a staircase without support you can always add a glass or metal railing of your choice!
Industrial Design
Industrial décor is all about clean lines, bare structural elements and stark functionality, sans ornamentation of any kind. Here, a black metal mesh forms a staircase siding that is as stylish as it is functional. The stair treads are of sleek wood supported on a simple framework of black metal.
Light and Modern
Wooden steps with a slight overhang form the treads of this light and airy staircase, with simple square handrails and the wall skirting in the same wood continuing the theme. Horizontal railings in steel provide additional safety. The risers are painted white for a tropical villa feel.
Sculptural Style
Cantilevered wooden steps take on a sculptural form and draw the eye upwards in a stylish sweep, in this lovely curved staircase. The curved glass on the inside of the stairs is moulded to shape, while the simple steel pipe fitted on the wall gives extra support if you need it.
Edgy Staircase Design
It doesn’t get simpler than this! Sleek pipe horizontals and metal flats make up the sides of this minimalistic staircase, with wooden treads supported on a simple metal frame. One end of the treads touches lightly on the glass walls of the courtyard, overlooking lush green garden views that are nothing short of spectacular.
Staircase without a Handrail
Here’s a staircase that chooses to do away with the concept of a handrail altogether! One end of the wooden steps is cantilevered from the wall while the other is free. Note that this isn’t a safe option for homes with older people or very young children!
Classical Details
Beautiful woodwork in your home is always an asset that contributes to the richness and beauty of the design theme. Here, mahogany wood is sculpted into beautifully proportioned bannisters and rails that perfectly match the classical theme. We love the richness of the grains and the sculptural contours of the newel post.
Of Curls and Whorls
Exquisitely detailed wrought iron railings add grandeur and style to any staircase. Here, the railing design is a work of art in itself, rendering any additional flamboyance quite unnecessary! The sweeping marble staircase is distinguished by the elaborate curls and whorls on the railings, the perfect foil for the ornamental wallpaper and period furniture.
Simple and Elegant
Strikingly simple, the single metal rail captures attention with its sleek, minimalistic design. If more safety is needed, plexiglass can be installed between the railing and the stairs; however, even just the single rail is enough for the support you need.
Cable Rails
Aluminium cable railings offer a sleek, minimalistic look to this modern staircase. Seamless, clean lines of vertical cables run all the way from the ground to the top floor, rendering any additional bannisters or handrails completely unnecessary. It’s important to ensure that the cables are anchored firmly to provide taut, firm support, without which the design will not be effective.
Keep These Staircase Railing Design Tips in Mind!
- If you have small kids in your home, their safety should be at the top of your design thinking. Children love to slide down staircase handrails, which is not always the best idea when they are small! Keep in mind that vertical rails will prevent them from climbing up, while naughty tots can easily clamber up horizontal rails!
- Make your material choice depending on your décor outlook. Glass and simple, straight metal stairs look good with modern décor. Wooden railings go well with classical décor, while wrought iron or very ornate wooden designs will match a traditional, vintage décor theme.
- The handrail should be at a height of at least 3 feet for optimal safety. If you need to hold on to the handrail as you ascend or descend the stairs, the diameter needs to be between 1.5 to 2 inches for holding comfort.
Liked our ideas and want to incorporate them in your home? With HomeLane, crafting the home décor of your dreams is a breeze. Come visit one of our Experience Centres today, and get one step closer to your perfect home!
