We understand that navigating the ins-and-outs of renovations, replacements, repairs, and even when starting on new construction can be very overwhelming to homeowners. It’s our goal with our Carpenter’s Corner series to leave our readers enlightened and empowered!
Here at Pinto Carpentry, we strive for total customer satisfaction, and that includes making sure everyone is on the same page and understands the materials, plans, and design before going forward. We want you to understand the terms and lingo used by industry professionals to ensure that you can get the precise project you want and the look you desire. Today, you'll learn how to choose the right staircase style to fit your home's architecture and building plan.
Today, we’re going to talk about different styles of stairs and their purposes and aesthetics! By the end of our helpful guide, you’ll be able to differentiate what type of stair is appropriate for your space and specific project. Let’s get started:
Understanding Staircase Design Terminology: Key Terms for Homeowners
Straight and L-Shaped Stairs: Simple and Versatile Designs for Any Home
Straight Stairs - This is the most common type of stair in both residential and commercial builds. They are stairs without any changes in direction, although they may occasionally be broken up by central landings if floor heights are above 10-12 feet. They’re the easiest to go up and down, work well with most house designs, are usually more straightforward to construct, and are much easier to fit with handrail systems.
L-Shaped Stairs - These are a variant of the straight stair, but feature a transitional landing where the stair bends most generally at 90 degrees. These may also be referred to as a “quarter turn stair” if the landing is closer to either the top or the bottom. They are a great choice for stairs located in a corner, and do also provide visual interest due to their shape. A variant of this style are Winder Stairs, which feature a triangular or “pie” shaped step at the corner transition instead of a full landing.
U-Shaped and Freestanding Stairs: Adding Architectural Interest
U-Shaped Stairs - This stair design features two parallel flights of stairs, joined by a wide landing with a 180-degree turn in the walking path. They’re a bit more difficult to build than straight stairs or L-shaped stairs, but offer a lot of visual interest and are convenient to fit into many build plans and styles.
For more inspiration for U Shaped Stairs check out this Guide.
Freestanding Stair - This type of staircase does not have a wall on either side. This style stair is most frequently used in large, open rooms or entry ways, intended to keep the spacious feel of the area, and can be used for straight or curved stairs. This type of stair really makes a statement, and is a great place to use decorative panels and carved elements for a striking look.
Luxury Staircase Styles: Bifurcated, Circular, and Curved Staircases
Bifurcated Stairs - These are also known as split stairs, as they feature one sweeping set of larger, wide stairs that split off at an ample sized landing into two smaller flights in opposite directions generally leading to the same floor. These are very commonly used in historic estates and luxury buildings like large offices or hotels.
Circular Staircase - A circular staircase is crafted in a rounded fashion utilizing the circumference of a given area; they have a large radius, usually turning more than 90 degrees. A stunning option for grand entryways, and a perfect opportunity to add stylish elements like natural wood and eye-catching balusters or decorative panels. They make a very elegant first impression to visitors.
Curved Staircase - This type of stair does not generally make a full circle, and turns 90 degrees or less. It’s a great option for a sweeping turn visual in smaller spaces, and makes a wonderful focal point if you have a large entryway.
For more inspiration check out this Guide.
Compact Staircase Options: Spiral and Helical Staircases
Spiral Staircase - This type of compact stair is generally found in small, narrow spaces without room for the typical stair. It features a center column which supports the treads as they wind around the central axis from floor to landing. It is important to note that while this is a very attractive design, most spaces cannot accommodate this as an addition or renovation, as it requires specific architectural plans. They are also not the most practical or accessible staircase due to their steepness and angle, only one person can go up or down at a time, and it is very difficult to move large pieces of furniture or artwork up and down.
Helical Staircase - This is similar to a spiral stair in look, but it features no central column and is instead supported by two stringers.
Choosing the Right Staircase Stringers: Closed vs. Open String Design
Closed Stringer - Also known as a routed, housed, box or side stringer. This type is positioned outside the treads and risers, so that the stairs are contained between the stringers. The edge of the stair tread will not be visible, since the stair treads and risers are inserted into notches along the string.
Cut or Open String - This refers to a stair where the upper edge portion of the string has been cut, leaving the profile of the staircase visible from the sides, or may even overhang the string slightly.
For more Modern Staircase inspiration check out this Guide.
Enhancing Your Stair Design: Adding Cantilevered Steps and Landing Details
Cantilever stairs - These stairs create a stunning, eye catching illusion that the stair treads are floating in the air with no support, adding to the airiness and spaciousness of a room. The stringer is usually located to one side or hidden, and the tread supports require great care to ensure they can handle the weight. They require precise care and an experienced builder who is able to evaluate the stress and load bearing measurements. Types of this style include a Hidden Cantilever Stair Stringer, Exposed Stair Stringer with Cantilevered Landing, Partial Cantilever Stair.
Choosing the Right Staircase Stringers: Closed vs. Open String Design
Landing - the area at the top or middle section of a staircase that leads to rooms, hallways, or a second set of stairs; a landing is required for every 12’ of vertical stairway rise, and it should be at least as wide as the stairway that connects to it
Curtail Step - This refers to the step or steps at the end of a light of stairs, which may be widened at one or both ends specifically to fit scroll curves of the handrail; it’s one of the most intricate steps to craft.
Bringing Your Staircase Vision to Life: Combining Style, Function, and Durability
Now that you have a better understanding of the different staircase styles and how they can complement your home's architecture, it's time to bring your vision to life. Choosing the right staircase is not only about aesthetics but also functionality, safety, and durability. At Pinto Carpentry, we’re here to guide you through the process, ensuring you select a design that perfectly suits your space and meets your needs.
Custom Staircase Solutions from Pinto Carpentry: Combining Style and Function
With over 20 years of experience in both residential and commercial projects, Pinto Carpentry is your trusted partner for custom staircase design and installation. Our master stair builders and installers are dedicated to creating stunning, functional staircases tailored to your home, office, or commercial property. Whether you're looking for a modern, sleek design or a timeless, classic look, we’ll bring your vision to life.
Ready to get started? Give us a call at 908-922-1778 to schedule your consultation and receive a custom quote. Be sure to explore our portfolio on our website or follow us on Instagram and Facebook to see our latest work. Don’t forget to check out our Case Studies page for detailed examples of our completed projects!
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