One of the most debated design choices is between closed or open riser stairs. Both options have advantages, but which is best for your modern home? When designing a modern home, choosing the right staircase style is essential. A staircase is not just a functional necessity—it’s a focal point setting your space’s tone.
What are Open Riser Stairs?
An open riser staircase has gaps between each step, allowing light and air to flow through. This design creates a floating effect.
Benefits of Open Riser Stairs
- Enhanced Light and Airflow: Open risers allow more natural light to pass through, making a space feel bigger and brighter.
- Sleek, Modern Look: The floating effect creates a minimalist, airy aesthetic that perfectly complements modern interiors.
- Customization Options: Open risers are available in various materials, such as wood, glass, and metal, offering design flexibility.
- Visual Connection: These stairs help maintain an open-concept design, creating seamless transitions between spaces.
Considerations for Open Riser Stairs
- Safety Concerns: The open riser gaps may not be ideal for households with small children or pets.
- Building Code Compliance: Some regions have specific regulations on riser gaps to prevent accidents.
- Higher Cost: Open riser stairs can be more expensive than traditional options due to their specialized construction and support requirements. View our modern stairs portfolio.
What is a Closed Riser Staircase?
A closed riser staircase features solid vertical panels between each step, fully enclosing the stair structure. This style is more traditional but can still be customized to suit a modern aesthetic.
Benefits of a Closed Riser Staircase
- Added Safety and Stability: Closed riser stairs are safer for children and pets, as there are no gaps between steps.
- Storage Opportunities: The space underneath can be utilized for storage, maximizing functionality.
- Sound Reduction: The enclosed design minimizes noise, making them ideal for multi-story homes.
- Classic and Versatile: Closed risers can be crafted modernly with the right materials and finishes.
Considerations for a Closed Riser Staircase
- Less Light Flow: Closed risers may make a space more enclosed since they block light.
- Bulkier Appearance: Compared to open risers, closed stairs can appear heavier, which may not suit every modern home design.
- Limited Design Flexibility: The solid structure offers fewer creative possibilities than open risers. View our modern stairs portfolio.
Choosing the Right Staircase for Your Modern Home
When deciding between open and closed riser stairs, consider the following factors:
- Aesthetic Preference: Open risers are the way to go if you want a sleek, airy look. Closed risers work best for a more solid and traditional feel.
- Safety Needs: Families with children and pets may prioritize the security of closed riser stairs.
- Space Considerations: Open risers can make a room feel more spacious, while closed risers provide functional storage.
- Budget Constraints: Open risers often require specialized materials and craftsmanship, increasing costs.
- Home Layout: Consider how the staircase interacts with other architectural elements in your home.
Key Takeaways
- Open riser stairs create an airy, modern look and allow light to pass through, butmay not suit every space or safety requirement.
- Closed riser stairs offer more privacy, solidity, and cost-effectiveness in manyinstallations.
- Material choice, structural support, and building codes strongly influence whetheropen or closed risers are feasible.
- Combining open and closed elements (partial openness) can balance aestheticsand practicality.
- The right choice depends on design priorities: light & modern vs solidity & safety.
Final Thoughts
Open and closed riser staircases can be tailored to fit a modern home depending on your needs and preferences. Whether you choose the contemporary elegance of open risers or the practicality of closed risers, working with experts can help bring your vision to life.
Contact us today to find the perfect modern staircase for your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between closed-riser and open-riser stairs?
Closed-riser (or boxed) stairs have vertical boards between treads (risers), creating a solid appearance. Open riser stairs omit that vertical board, allowing light and visibility between treads.
What are the benefits of each type?
Open riser promotes light flow, visual openness, and modern look. Closed riser offers privacy, a more solid appearance, and often better noise reduction.
Are open riser stairs safe for children or pets?
They can be made safe if riser gaps are small enough to meet building codes, use tempered glass or vertical slats, and include handrails. Some codes require maximum gap sizes (e.g. ≤4″ / 100 mm) to prevent accidents.
Which is easier to maintain?
Closed riser stairs conceal the underside, making cleaning easier (less dust behind). Open riser stairs might require more cleaning on undersides but easier visual inspection for structure.
Which is more expensive?
Open riser designs often require more engineering and stronger load support (since risers don’t contribute to stiffness), which can increase cost. However, finish treatments on closed risers also add cost.