Step Into the Open
Ever toured a home near Old Town Alexandria and noticed how a staircase can feel more like art than a utility, almost like the historic architecture around King Street? Wondering why some stairs seem to make the whole room feel bigger and brighter?
In this post, you’ll learn what makes an open tread staircase unique, how it’s built, its pros and cons, and the many ways it can transform your space.
By the end, you’ll know whether this bold design choice is the right move for your staircase installation.
What is an Open Tread Staircase?
An open tread staircase, also known as an open riser staircase, features treads without vertical risers, allowing light to pass through. Treads are typically 1.75 to 4 inches thick to meet code and maintain structural integrity. This design creates a modern, airy look and works in both homes and commercial spaces.
Key Parts of an Open Tread Staircase
Stringers for Open Rise
The stringer forms the main support system, either running along both sides or as a single mono stringer beneath the treads. Its design influences not only the structural integrity but also the overall style, from sleek floating stairs to more solid stairways with visible beams.
Stair Treads
The stair treads are the surfaces you step on.
In open riser staircases, they often need to be thicker to handle weight without risers beneath them. Materials like wood, stone, or even glass create different looks, and wider or flush treads can give the stairway more presence.
Railings and Balustrades
The railing system is what ties safety and design together.
Options like glass railing, cable systems, or wood handrails each change the character of the staircase, whether you want a minimal contemporary look or a more traditional feel.
Landings and Transitions
Where the stairway meets a landing or floor is another key detail that affects both safety and aesthetics. Smooth transitions between levels, especially when the stairs connect to open floors or large entry spaces, keep the design cohesive and make the project feel complete.
Pros and Cons of Open Tread Staircases
Pros of Open Tread Staircases
- Allows natural light to flow freely between floors, brightening the entire stairway.
- Makes even small entries or landings feel larger, creating the impression of continuous space.
- Offers design flexibility with floating stairs, wood stairways with cable railing, or hybrid systems.
- Can be designed in straight runs, spiral shapes, or U-shaped flights while maintaining an airy style.
Cons of Open Tread Staircases
- Requires thicker stair treads and custom fabrication, often leading to higher costs than closed riser stairs.
- Does not provide underside storage options because there is no flush vertical surface to build against.
- Local building codes limit gaps between treads to no more than 102 millimeters for safety.
- Some open staircase designs may need adjustments to meet code requirements while keeping a contemporary look.
Design Ideas for Open Tread Staircases
Glass to Spare
Pairing a cantilever system with a glass railing can create a stairway that feels almost invisible, leaving the treads themselves to float as the highlight. This type of design is perfect for rooms where you want the stairs to stand as an architectural feature without blocking views or light.
In tighter settings where space is limited, using minimal glass railing with thin treads can make the area feel much more open. Even in small rooms, open risers paired with light finishes help create a sense of expansion.
Open up your stairs even more with these ideas.
Pair Maple and Cable
Combining maple stair treads with dark cable railing creates a contrast that feels warm yet sleek. This mix of natural wood and modern railing makes open riser stairs a centerpiece that balances style and function in your home.
Eye-Catching Treads
Choosing extra-wide natural treads gives the staircase weight and presence while still keeping the openness of the design. This approach turns everyday stairs into a visual statement that elevates the entire house.
Bright and Spacious
A straight mono flight system with cable railing works well in open-concept layouts, creating a bridge between floors without interrupting flow. The light passing through the open risers enhances the sense of brightness throughout the space.
Unique Shapes and Finishes
Some homeowners opt for bold choices like U-shaped floating stairs with powder-coated metal, Brazilian cherry treads, or black steel stringers. These finishes offer a contemporary touch while ensuring the stairway stands out as a custom feature within the decor.
We’re ready to bring your staircase ideas to life.
Comparing Open vs. Closed Riser Staircases
Open riser staircases feature open gaps between stair treads, creating a light-filled, modern stairway that feels open and airy. They’re perfect for homeowners looking to bring more natural light into their house and achieve a contemporary look, though they can come with higher costs and stricter code requirements.
Closed riser staircases use a full riser board between each tread, closing the gap completely for a more solid and traditional feel. They are usually easier to install, more affordable, and practical for families who want extra underside storage or a more conventional stairway.
Storage Potential
Open riser stairs are designed for openness rather than hidden storage, so they work best in settings where maximizing space under the staircase isn’t the main priority.
Closed riser stairs have a flush underside that makes it possible to add storage cabinets, a closet with a door, or even a small office space beneath the stairway.
Staircase storage ideas you’ll crave.
Style Versatility
Open risers lean modern, pairing beautifully with floating stairs, glass railing, or cable systems for a sleek, custom finish.
Closed riser stairs, though more traditional, are versatile too, working with carpet, painted risers, or wood finishes to match a wide variety of home styles.
More on floating vs. regular staircases.
Open the Door to Possibilities with Stair Creations
Stair Creations specializes in creating open riser staircases and floating stairs that are stunning features, elevating your entire house. Their attention to detail, from wood stair treads to glass railing systems, ensures your new stairway is both beautiful and built to last.
If you’re ready to bring this kind of contemporary look into your home, Stair Creations is here to help. Fill out our contact form today or give us a call to get started on your next project.
