STAIR ANATOMY
![stairs for home with metal balusters](https://imagedesignstairs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IDS-StairAnatomy-Balusters-v2-650x650.png)
Balusters
The vertical posts which support the railing of the staircase; balusters are typically wood or metal.
![stairs for home with balusters](https://imagedesignstairs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IDS-StairAnatomy-Balustrade-v2-650x650.png)
Balustrade
Refers to the entire system. Made up of handrail, balusters and newels.
![stairs for home wooden fittings](https://imagedesignstairs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IDS-StairAnatomy-Fittings-v2-650x650.png)
Fittings
The stair parts used to form a smooth transition when the handrail changes height or makes a turn at a landing or a balcony. Common types of fittings are gooseneck, volute, overeasing, upeasing, quarterturn with cap and without cap, tandem cap.
![wooden handrail in custom stairs designs](https://imagedesignstairs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IDS-StairAnatomy-Handrail-v2-650x650.png)
Handrails
The horizontal or rake member of a balustrade system. It sits on top of the balusters and is supported by newell posts.
![stairs for home intermediate landing](https://imagedesignstairs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IDS-StairAnatomy-Intermediate-Landing-v2-650x650.png)
Intermediate Landing
Level platform separating flights of stairs.
![wooden newel posts in stairs design 2](https://imagedesignstairs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IDS-StairAnatomy-Newel-v2.1-650x650.png)
Newels
Major support posts for the balustrade system. Larger and heavier than the balusters, newels are located at the bottom and top of a staircase and at turns and critical support areas of balcony rails. Can be over-the-post or post-to-post.
![risers in stairs design](https://imagedesignstairs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IDS-StairAnatomy-Riser-v2-650x650.png)
Risers
The vertical components of a stair which support the treads.
![wide starting step in stairs for home](https://imagedesignstairs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IDS-StairAnatomy-Starting-Step-v2-650x650.png)
Starting Steps
The first tread and riser at the bottom of the staircase. Can be square or round (round is typically called a bullnose).
![wooden mono stringer stairway designs with glass balustrade](https://imagedesignstairs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IDS-StairAnatomy-Treads-v21-650x650.png)
Tread
The top surface of a stair on which one steps.