A staircase can be far more than a way of connecting storeys. Tom Blakeman of Winthill Engineering explains what makes a successful staircase and considers practical and aesthetic factors.
Investing in a custom-designed staircase which suits your needs and your home’s architecture can really transform a space. With planning and consideration, it can influence the overall style of the property and how you move through it on a daily basis.
Traditionally, a staircase is often the first thing visitors see when walking through the front door, more so in modern open plan homes as they’re often a focal point within the floorplan. While serving a practical purpose, a staircase can also be an impressive design feature.
Staircase design
Straight, L-shaped and U-shaped are classic staircase designs which suit most spaces, often with the ability to add extra storage underneath. Cantilevered, helical, spiral and curved staircases meanwhile, add drama and work well in high-ceilinged spaces.
A staircase is an investment so should be designed for the long-term and not follow a trend. Stick to what you like. Style, materials and proportions are key – they should complement your home’s architecture. Then, over time, and depending on the materials used, certain elements can be redecorated or upgraded to suit interior decor.
Ultimately though, a staircase should be easy to access and lead you into your home – guiding you through the ground floor, and to those above.
Materials & finish
Timber, steel, glass, concrete, stone, and recycled materials are all popular choices for staircases. Each has its benefits – including longevity, texture, warmth, low maintenance, or eco-friendly. Steel, for example, is long-lasting and a great choice for those wanting an industrial or modern staircase design. It can also be combined with new or recycled timbers for warmth and texture, and glass for a distinctive contrast, making it suitable for most properties.
The right choice of material can also help maximise the potential of tight spaces and limited light. Use slimmer and smaller details in a tight space such as a smaller newel post – or lose it altogether, with thin spindles and a sleek handrail. Consider thin materials such as steel and glass which won’t overpower a compact area. Glass and steel also work well in darker spaces, the latter can be laser cut or punched so light can filter through.
Engage with your supplier as early as possible
Early engagement is particularly important if you are planning a more complex staircase. Cantilevered, floating and open plan staircases all require structural support which, to achieve the look, must be hidden, usually in the wall and floor. This should be factored into the build programme from the outset, to allow for preparation and integration. This will help avoid any costly mistakes and delays. If you are considering underfloor heating for example, be aware that this cannot be drilled into once laid so it would not be possible to hide, or perhaps, fit the staircase support.
Make sure your staircase complies with Part K
Your new or improved staircase must comply with Part K so be sure to consult this before changing an existing staircase, or if it’s new, make sure it meets these requirements.
The Approved Document K covers protection from falling, collision and impact and offers guidance on designing a staircase, such as steepness of stairs, minimum head room between levels, width and length of flights of stairs and landings for stairs. There are specific instructions for special stairs – alternating tread stairs, spiral and helical stairs, and tapered treads.
To maximise staircase design potential while working within the confines of compliance, professional supervision is advised. Speak with your preferred staircase designer or manufacturer for expert advice.
Case study
Mr and Mrs Hatton had an idea for an airy yet statement staircase for their home in rural Herefordshire. As well as improving movement up and down the stairs, they wanted to create flow and a feeling of space in the entrance hallway. The couple worked with bespoke metalworkers to craft a custom staircase. “The team worked patiently and tirelessly with us through the design process,” comments Mrs Hatton.
Winthill Engineering designed a sophisticated staircase with a hidden structural support which enhances the triangular space beneath the stairs – the spandrel – and increases circulation space.
“The result is a beautifully engineered and hand-crafted metal and oak staircase that fits like a glove and looks splendid. It is a joy to use, and we love it!”
The staircase is built from mild steel powder coated in a metallic finish chosen to complement the property’s exposed timbers. This is offset by solid oak treads in a natural finish. A hand-forged handrail sits atop sleek round spindles and curves sinuously down, ending in a volute supported by a curtail block. This design adds elegance and creates a feature of the open staircase while easing movement up and down the stairs.
Tom Blakeman is engineering director at Winthill Engineering