Step it Up: Five Eye-Catching Banister Styles

Are you so over two-tone stair railings as your best design option? You’re not doomed to wrought iron or standard wood. Options abound; you can find that statement-making banister! Start with these five inspirational ideas:

Transparent

With open-plan homes being oh-so-popular today, there’s no reason your stairs should be closed in. Try a see-through banister made of tempered glass, plexiglas, or acrylic in solid pieces or clear balusters. It’s open and airy, but be warned: it’ll show every fingerprint and smudge.

Staircase by John Maniscalco Architecture

 

Staircase by Horst Architects

 

Staircase by CanTrust Contracting Group
Wood
Yes, you’re reading that right. A wood banister does not have to be standard or boring – choose unusual balusters (AKA spindles) and newel posts or even a bold color:
Living Room by Smith & Vansant Architects PC

 

Photo credit: Janet Paik

 

Photo credit: Mary Prince Photography

 

Staircase by Widing Custom Homes
Cable

Sleek, modern, bordering on industrial, cable can be installed horizontally or vertically (especially on “suspended” staircases):

Staircase by Workshop APD
Staircase by Birdseye Design

 

Staircase by Serrano Monjaraz Arquitectos
Sculptural

Create a custom banister for a truly striking effect; curves are especially pronounced as railings are typically straight:

Staircase by Winder Gibson Architects

 

Home Office by Maynard Studios

 

Staircase by Bruce Palmer Interior Design

 

Staircase by Maynard Studios

Laser-cut steel

This ultra-modern option is customizable and virtually limitless:

Staircase by Workshop APD

 

Staircase by FINNE Architects

 

Staircase by FINNE Architects
Which one’s your favorite?
yael