Open Risers Home Stairs

Sleek, stylish, and increasingly popular, Open Risers Home Stairs are transforming the look and feel of modern residential interiors. These staircases are more than just a functional transition between floors—they are an architectural statement that brings light, airiness, and flow to your home.

At Modern Stairs Plus, we specialize in crafting customized open riser staircases tailored to your space, style, and structural requirements. In this comprehensive guide, we explore everything you need to know about Open Risers Home Stairs—from design inspiration and materials to code compliance, safety, and the latest industry trends.

What Are Open Risers Home Stairs?

Open risers home stairs are staircases where the vertical portion between each tread (the riser) is removed, leaving a gap between the steps. This creates a floating or light appearance that visually expands any space.

Key Characteristics:

  • Gaps between treads instead of solid risers
  • Enhances visual flow and natural light
  • Clean, modern lines suitable for contemporary homes
  • Built for both function and aesthetic impact
Frameless stairway with floating wood treads and clear glass railing – custom-designed by Modern Stairs Plus for a Toronto modern home

Why Choose Open Risers Home Stairs?

1. Modern Visual Appeal

These stairs exude modern sophistication. With their open design and minimal structure, they add elegance and architectural interest to interiors.

2. Improved Light Flow

By allowing light to pass between treads, open risers help brighten up interiors, especially in homes with limited natural light.

3. Perception of Space

Open risers make rooms appear larger and less compartmentalized. This is ideal for open-concept layouts and small spaces.

4. Customisable Design

From wood and metal combinations to integrated lighting and glass railings, open risers offer design versatility.

5. Increased Property Value

Stylish and well-crafted staircases elevate your home’s resale appeal and perceived luxury.

Types of Open Risers Home Stairs

Straight Open Risers

  • The simplest configuration
  • Ideal for contemporary homes with linear design themes

L-Shaped or Quarter-Turn Stairs

  • Adds a 90-degree turn with a landing
  • Works well for entryways and design transitions

U-Shaped Stairs

  • Two turns with a central landing
  • Suitable for multi-storey or larger homes

Floating Open Risers

  • Minimal supports with treads that appear to float
  • Wall-mounted or supported by hidden steel structures

Zigzag or Sawtooth Designs

  • Features geometrically cut stringers
  • Combines modernity with artistic flair

Spiral Open Risers

  • A dramatic, space-saving solution
  • Often used in lofts or tight floorplans

Materials for Open Risers Home Stairs

Treads:

  • Hardwood (oak, maple, walnut): Classic, durable, and warm
  • Glass: For transparency and lightness
  • Steel: Industrial edge, often powder-coated
  • Concrete: Clean lines and high durability

Stringers:

  • Steel: Strong, sleek, and versatile
  • Wood: Adds warmth and organic contrast
  • Boxed Stringers: Provide a minimalist side profile

Railings:

  • Glass Panels: Maintain openness and visibility
  • Cable Railings: Sleek, modern, and safe
  • Metal Balusters: Simple or decorative options
  • Wood Handrails: Add comfort and contrast to modern materials

Design Considerations

1. Staircase Location

Open risers work beautifully in entryways, living areas, or mezzanine access points where visual appeal is crucial.

2. Tread Thickness

Thicker treads (2” or more) help maintain balance and add bold presence.

3. Lighting Integration

LED strips under treads or within handrails create ambience and improve nighttime safety.

4. Support Configuration

Hidden stringers, central mono stringers, or side-mounted steel stringers all offer unique looks and structural benefits.

5. Child and Pet Safety

To ensure safety, riser gaps should not exceed 100 mm. Additional panels or tempered glass can be installed for added security.

Building Code Compliance in Canada

When installing Open Risers Home Stairs, it’s critical to follow Canadian safety codes.

Common Requirements:

  • Riser openings: Must not allow a 100 mm sphere to pass through
  • Tread depth: Minimum 280 mm
  • Riser height: Maximum 180 mm
  • Handrails: Required if the stair has four or more risers
  • Guardrails: Required for stairs above 600 mm in elevation
  • Working with professionals like Modern Stairs Plus ensures your staircase is not only beautiful but also safe and compliant.
Open riser home staircase with wood treads and frameless glass railings in a modern Toronto interior – by Modern Stairs Plus

Open Risers vs Closed Risers

Open Risers

  • Airy and modern
  • Maximizes light and space perception
  • Requires careful structural engineering

Closed Risers

  • Traditional look
  • Offers under-stair storage potential
  • Often preferred for homes with small children or seniors

Installation Process at Modern Stairs Plus

Step 1: Consultation

We assess your space, style preferences, and functional needs.

Step 2: Design & Engineering

Our experts create detailed CAD drawings and 3D visuals, ensuring code compliance and structural safety.

Step 3: Material Selection

We guide you through our curated collection of premium hardwoods, metals, glass, and finish options.

Step 4: Fabrication

Using precision tools, we manufacture custom stair components with exact specifications.

Step 5: Installation

Our skilled team installs your staircase with attention to detail, ensuring a flawless finish.

Step 6: Post-Project Support

We offer follow-up inspections, touch-ups, and ongoing customer care.

Sleek steel stair railing with minimalist vertical bars and matte black finish – installed by Modern Stairs Plus in a Toronto residence

Maintenance Tips

  • Clean treads regularly with appropriate materials (wood cleaner, steel polish, or glass cleaner)
  • Inspect mounting brackets annually for security
  • Refinish wood surfaces every few years, if needed
  • Ensure stair lighting remains functional
  • Keep stair treads free from clutter or slipping hazards

2025 Design Trends for Open Risers Home Stairs

1. Natural Finishes

Satin or matte finishes on wood for a natural, calming aesthetic.

2. Black Accents

Matte black metal stringers and railings are trending for high contrast design.

3. Integrated Tech

Motion-activated lighting and hidden sensors add modern functionality.

4. Curved Minimalism

Subtle curves in treads or railings soften the geometric look.

5. Sustainable Materials

Reclaimed wood, recycled steel, and low-VOC finishes are being prioritized.

Who Benefits Most from Open Risers Home Stairs?

Homeowners:

  • Elevate the interior with a sophisticated focal point
  • Increase natural light distribution and openness

Interior Designers:

  • Integrate a visually light element that balances room aesthetics
  • Pair with minimalist or luxury decor themes

Architects:

  • Create architectural drama and sculptural form
  • Tailor staircase design to spatial flow and light dynamics

Why Choose Modern Stairs Plus?

At Modern Stairs Plus, we are committed to delivering Open Risers Home Stairs that are structurally precise, visually stunning, and tailored to your lifestyle.

What We Offer:

  • Fully Custom Designs that match your home’s architecture
  • Premium Material Sourcing from trusted Canadian and global suppliers
  • Engineering Expertise to meet all safety standards
  • Advanced Fabrication Techniques using CNC and laser-cutting technology
  • Expert Installation with minimal disruption
  • Aftercare Services for long-term satisfaction

Elevate Your Home with Open Risers

Choosing Open Risers Home Stairs is a bold step toward creating a more modern, open, and elegant home. These staircases don’t just bridge levels—they transform the entire atmosphere of your living space.

Whether you’re renovating or building from scratch, Modern Stairs Plus offers design-forward, code-compliant solutions that match your vision and lifestyle.

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