Contractor Tips Blog

Jun
5

Unique Design Options for Balusters

Posted in Stairs

The railings of a staircase offer a beautiful way to enhance the design. Regardless of the shape or material of the handrail, the balusters can be created from different wrought iron, wood or steel, with various designs to compliment the style of the home. Whether your tastes are contemporary or traditional, there are many options in balusters to stylize your staircase and home.

Classic Wood Balusters

Wood balusters have been used for centuries and still continue to be a popular option. Most often, wood balusters are paired with a wooden handrail and newels, but more and more staircases are combining different materials. The baluster design can vary, from a classic, narrow baluster with a round shape, to panels and square options, in many different varieties of wood and finishes.

Wrought Iron Balusters

More and more homes are featuring wrought iron balusters. Even if the handrails, treads and newels are wood, you will often see wrought iron used for balusters. You may see Tuscan scrolls or twisted balusters in a Sonoma style, adding a decorative touch. Of course, wrought iron can be used in entirety for the handrails and treads, as well as the balusters.

Steel or Other Metals

For modern or contemporary staircases, you can see the shine of steel or other metals emerging. Steel balusters combined with glass or other materials, with straight lines and clean angles, is another option for a new look in staircases.

Balusters, along with the other elements of customized staircases, can create a stunning focal point in your home. Discuss the options available to create a staircase that adds aesthetics to your home’s style with a talented and experienced staircase designer. You may be amazed at all the choices available to create a staircase that is unique and memorable.

Posted on behalf of:
Southern Staircase/Artistic Stairs
6025 Shiloh Rd, Ste E
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(888) 510-0342

Feb
26

Trends in Staircase Handrails

Posted in Stairs

One of the most noticeable pieces of architecture inside a home is the staircase.  While it of course must be practical and safe, it can also make a beautiful statement about your home. And one of the most important aspects of the staircase is the handrail design and balusters. The detailing that a handrail has and the materials used in it can make all the difference, and can turn your home from builder’s basic to modern chic.

Some modern trends in handrails today is glass. Rather than using traditional spindles on the staircase, consider filling that space with clear, colored or patterned glass. It allows light to continue through the space and continues the open concept design that people want in their homes today.  A minimalistic metal top gives a place to grasp while capping that industrial look that is so sought after.

Another trend is to mix materials.  Using a traditional wooden rail with a wrought iron baluster is a timeless look. Another option is to use cabling or metal railing horizontally with a wooden rail.  Natural wood softens the industrial look of metal while still updating a space.

Color is also something to think about with staircase design. Contrasting a bright white stair with a very dark handrail, balusters and treads. Very dark browns and black are the new trend in stain and will make a traditional staircase design pop.

Whether you are having a new home built or are renovating your old home, contact a professional to help design a beautiful staircase with a unique handrail design. They add value, sophistication, and a one-of-a-kind statement to your home that won’t be duplicated in your neighborhood.

Posted on behalf of:
Southern Staircase/Artistic Stairs
6025 Shiloh Rd, Ste E
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(888) 510-0342

Oct
15

Trends in Residential Staircases

Posted in Stairs

While stairs are always a necessary piece of a home’s architecture, the design and style have become more and more important.  New styles in staircases can turn them into showpieces themselves. There are many styles of staircases that are on trend today that fit every aesthetic.

Sustainable Stairs

Choosing to make staircases ecologically sustainable is a trend for green home builders.  Doing the research to choose wood that is eco-friendly and beautiful is easier than ever.

Glass Infill

Instead of traditional balusters, consider using glass infills instead.  Using a toughened glass gives a minimalist modern style while allowing light to pass through giving an unobstructed view.

Metal Finishes

Using metal finishes in your staircase design gives a modern touch to your overall look.  Metal balusters may be added to a traditional staircase or wrought iron in a variety of designs can reflect the overall architecture of the home.  And metal is very strong and durable.

Stainless Steel Cable and Tube

Using horizontal steel cable in place of vertical balusters is a new modern look.  Cable and tube was popular in outdoor decking and commercial applications, but it is being brought into homes more often.  It gives a cool industrial look and can also be used with more traditional wood handrails to soften the appearance.  It also allows light without sacrificing safety.

Staircases don’t have to be the monstrosity in the middle of the house. Play them up to be a focal point that you are happy to show off. Find a stair specialist in your area to help you design a staircase that reflects you and your home’s style.

Posted on behalf of:
Southern Staircase/Artistic Stairs
6025 Shiloh Rd, Ste E
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(888) 510-0342

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