Are you a homeowner or interior designer searching for that perfect blend of functionality and aesthetics that transforms a home into a showpiece? A floating staircase can make the most of natural light and create a beautiful way to get from one floor to another.
Also called cantilever staircases, floating staircases are known for their minimalist elegance and contemporary charm, and are quickly becoming a popular design choice. Here we’ll look at the different floating staircase design options, the pros and cons and why you need a qualified carpenter to install them.
Why Choose a Floating Staircase?
A floating staircase is an amazing feature that can improve a home’s resale value and offer an attractive focal point in your house. Unlike a traditional staircase, floating stairs give the illusion of steps suspended mid-air, opening up spaces and allowing natural light to flow freely between each floor of your home.
One of the main reasons homeowners and designers choose floating staircases is that they make the most of space. In smaller homes where every square metre counts, the open design of floating stairs can make a room feel bigger and more welcoming.
Features like a glass balustrade on your staircase can further improve the appearance of a hallway or open space. Their sleek look suits any interior style from rustic to ultra-modern, and the tempered glass creates added security.
Floating staircase design is highly customisable. Whether you love the raw beauty of wood, the sleekness of steel or the transparency of glass, floating staircases can be constructed to suit your style. They’re not just a structural element but an expression of creativity and design.
What is a Floating Staircase?
At its simplest, a floating staircase is one where the steps appear to be floating without visible support. This is achieved through clever engineering, usually involving hidden structures that ensure the stairs are fixed into a concrete wall without spoiling the illusion.
The secret to floating staircases is in the design. They often feature a cantilevered system where each step is attached to a central spine or directly into a wall so the staircase is stable while the view underneath is unobstructed. This design not only looks great but also gives more flexibility in installation.
During construction, the underlying support structures like a steel skeleton are put in place early on, sometimes even before the roof. Once the main build is complete the final elements like box treads and balustrades are installed so they’re protected and not damaged.
Pros of a Floating Staircase
Floating staircases are not just about looks – they have many practical benefits too. One of the biggest is the sense of openness in a home. By removing bulky risers and visible supports, these staircases allow light to flow through the space and create a better atmosphere.
They’re also super versatile. With many finishes to choose from, floating staircases can be customised to any design aesthetic. Whether you like a traditional wood look or a modern mix of glass and steel, there’s a floating staircase to make your vision a reality.
From a practical perspective, floating staircases make the most of space. Their minimalist design takes up less room than traditional staircases, making them a popular choice for smaller homes or areas where space is at a premium. This doesn’t compromise on structural integrity; when properly fitted, a floating staircase is both strong and safe.
Floating Staircase Styles
When choosing a new staircase, design makes a difference. Your new floating staircase needs to fit well within your house and should suit your personal style and practical needs. The staircase design you choose should also comply with local building regulations. Structural engineers and expert carpenters like Jarrod’s Staircases will work with you to discuss your design ideas to create a final installation that suits your space. Popular floating staircase design styles include:
Cantilevered Stairs
Cantilevered stairs are the classic choice for the floating stair illusion favoured by interior designers and homeowners. Each stair appears to project from the wall, supported by a hidden steel structure fixed to a solid bearing wall, creating a clean and minimalist look.
Despite their fragile appearance cantilevered stairs are designed to be strong and durable. They usually require steel within the wall to provide support without compromising the look. This makes them an innovative design choice for a new build or renovation looking to add a modern staircase.
Mono Stringer Stairs
Another unique floating stair design is the mono stringer staircase where a single structural beam supports each step. This central spine creates a dramatic linear look and can be finished in different materials.
Mono stringer stairs are very versatile. The open structure allows for creative combinations of step materials and tread options like wood, powder-coated steel, glass panels, stone and different railing styles. This flexibility is why designers love them for bespoke design elements.
Double Stringer Stairs
For those who want the look of floating stairs but need more support, double-stringer stairs are the balanced solution. Two parallel stringers mean more stability while still maintaining the open, floating stair effect.
Double-stringer stairs are for wider installations or areas where more structural support is required. They have a classic look with floating treads that can be finished in many ways so are suitable for modern and traditional interiors. Many designers choose a glass balustrade for this option to create a supportive handrail while still allowing light flow.
Building Code Requirements for Floating Stairs
When incorporating a floating staircase into your house, attention to detail during installation is key. Make sure your floating staircase design meets the code for safety and legality, and that your wall can support the structure during day-to-day use.
Open riser stairs common in floating designs have specific regulations to consider. With no stair riser the floating treads need to be thicker, generally a minimum of 1.5 inches, to withstand foot traffic.
The gap between open risers should not be more than 4 inches to avoid accidents. The vertical height between treads should be between 5 to a maximum rise of 7 3/4 inches for a comfortable step size. Handrail height should be between 34 and 38 inches with no opening more than 4 inches in the infill.
A floating staircase that is less than one metre wide should have a handrail on at least one side, while wider stairs should have a railing on both sides.
Meeting these requirements will not only ensure safety but also give you peace of mind knowing your staircase is secure and code-compliant. Consult with professionals who understand these codes to save time and headaches later.
Are Floating Staircases Safe?
Safety is a big concern when it comes to floating staircase design. Despite their fragile appearance, they are as safe as traditional stairs when built to code. Building codes are designed to make floating stairs stable and secure. For example, requirements like secure railing and precise measurements are there to prevent accidents.
One of the safety features of floating stairs is the tread design. The minimum thickness and spacing for treads prevent slippage and each step can support significant weight. The absence of a riser might seem risky but inclusion of a balustrade, strict design standards, and non-slip treads minimise tripping hazards.
The choice of materials used for the treads also plays a big role in stair safety. Non-slip finishes can be applied to treads for extra grip and handrails create the necessary support and stability. A professionally built floating staircase combines beauty with functionality for all users.
Why You Need a Professional Carpenter to Install a Floating Staircase
While the idea of installing a floating staircase yourself might be tempting for the DIY enthusiast, this is a project for construction professionals. The complexity of designing and installing a floating staircase requires special knowledge, equipment and skills.
From pouring and setting concrete to ensure wall integrity to choosing strengthened glass or other materials for treads and the balustrade, an experienced carpenter can complete this complex project in the most cost-effective, compliant way.
A professional carpenter will ensure all components are measured and installed to code. They will also choose the right materials and finishes to achieve the look you want while maintaining structural integrity.
Working with a professional team also gives you the advantage of customisation. Experienced craftsmen can design to match your specific space and specifications and will deliver more than what you picture.
Conclusion
Floating staircases offer a combination of style, functionality and modernity that can transform any space. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to improve resale value or an interior designer creating a cohesive, mid-air tread look, they offer endless possibilities.
Now that you know the styles, benefits and safety considerations you can make informed decisions to include floating staircases in your projects. Remember, working with skilled carpenters like the team at Jarrod’s Staircases will bring your vision to life with precision.
Considering a floating staircase for your home in South Wales? Contact Jarrod’s Staircases for a hassle-free experience from concept to completion.
