Open Staircases

It can be challenging to design an architectural feature that makes more of an impact than a beautifully crafted open staircase. Defined by their open risers that allow for more natural light to flow through the room while appearing to float in space, open staircases effortlessly create a sense of space and openness while drawing the eye to their crisp details and beautiful sightlines from all angles. 

First Step Designs specialises in designing and crafting the UK’s most sought-after staircases, working hand-in-hand with our clients to create one-of-a-kind masterpieces that enhance the home with stunning design, precision craftsmanship, and timeless appeal.

Whether looking for a bold central spine design for a contemporary home or a minimalist cantilever staircase for an architect-designed new build, reach out to First Step Designs to take the first step towards an open staircase designed to complement your home.

The term ‘open staircase’ is broad and could refer to any type of staircase where the vertical spaces between the treads are left bare. At First Step Designs, we craft all styles of open staircases, ensuring that every last detail is a considered choice that complements your vision, home, and architectural style. 

• Central spine stairs: A central spine staircase features a single steel spine supporting the treads. This style feels strong and anchored while still allowing for natural light to pass through.

View Central Spine Stairs

• Cantilever/floating stairs: The ultimate expression of minimalist staircase design, cantilever staircases have their treads anchored into a support wall using specially designed fixings. This style creates a dramatic floating effect and allows for maximum light flow, especially when paired with glass balustrades.

View all Floating Stairs

• Other styles: With clever design and a skilled engineering team, virtually any type of staircase could achieve an open-riser look. Whether mono or twin stringer, straight or curved, pure steel or mixed material configuration, our open staircases are always designed to feel light, elegant, and perfectly proportioned.

View all Bespoke Stairs

No item of furniture will impact how an interior space looks and feels more than a staircase. Without risers to block light flow and sightlines, open staircases make rooms feel larger, brighter, and more connected to the rest of the home. Even with reduced widths, this open feel gives the illusion of space.

Beyond aesthetics, a well-designed and crafted open staircase can significantly enhance a home’s comfort and value. Precision-engineered designer staircases are a much sought-after feature among buyers, and could help you close for a higher price if you ever decide to sell.

First Step Designs clients enjoy near limitless freedom to configure the open staircases of their dreams. Working closely with our award-winning design team, we guide our clients through dozens of styles, materials, and detailing options to ensure that every last staircase is as unique as it is breathtaking.

Some important considerations include:

• Staircase style: See section above
• Tread style: Choose between metal or timber treads in a wide range of finishes and depths, from ultra-slimline designs for maximum light flow to our signature 112 mm Chunky Oak treads for maximum weight.
• Balustrades and handrails: From minimalist frameless glass designs to timber balustrades and handrails detailed to complement your interior style, add character and personality to your stairs with fully custom-designed balustrades.
• Lighting: Add discreet, motion-activated or smart-home-enabled LED lighting to enhance the floating effect and safety at night.

At First Step Designs, we exclusively craft high-end, designer staircases—each a unique masterpiece for a unique home. Bringing the same passion and precision that won us the 2024 Build It Award for Best UK Staircase to every project we take on, you can rest assured that your open staircase is in the most capable of hands. 

From the concealed welds you’ll never see to the immaculate detailing you’ll notice every time you’re on a First Step Designs staircase, reach out to our team for innovative design, state-of-the-art manufacturing, and a client experience without rival.