Staircase! Void Space, half wall, balustrade or full wall? How to finish your staircase.

WHEN IT COMES TO DESIGNING A DOUBLE STOREY HOME, THERE ARE MANY CONSIDERATIONS TO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT.

One of these decisions is to decide on which type of wall you would like to have at the top of your staircase. There are several types of walls that can be used at the top of stairs to provide not only safety and support, but also to create a stylish impact in your new home.

Some common options include:

Balustrade

A balustrade is a railing that is supported by a series of vertical posts or balusters. It is often used at the top of stairs to provide a visual barrier and prevent falls.

There are several types of balustrades, including:

• Handrail balustrade: This type of balustrade includes a handrail that is mounted along the top of the balusters and is designed to provide support and stability when climbing the stairs.
• Glass balustrade: A glass balustrade is made of transparent or translucent glass panels that are mounted on a frame or supported by balusters. It provides a clear view and creates a sense of openness while still providing safety and support.
• Metal balustrade: A metal balustrade is made of metal materials, such as steel or aluminium, and is often used in modern or industrial-style buildings. It is durable and low maintenance, but may not offer as much privacy as other types of balustrades.
• Wood balustrade: A wood balustrade is made of wood materials and can be finished in a variety of colours and styles. It adds warmth and character to a space, but may require more maintenance than other types of balustrades.

Full Wall

A wall can be used at the top of stairs to provide a visual barrier and prevent falls. A full wall is a wall that extends from the floor to the ceiling and is used to enclose a space or divide a room.

Full walls are commonly used in residential and commercial buildings to provide privacy, create separate rooms or spaces, and define the layout of the building.

Full walls can also be decorative and can be finished with a variety of materials, to match the decor of the room. They can be designed in different styles and patterns, and can be used to add visual interest to a space.

Half Wall

A half wall is a low wall that is used to provide a visual barrier and support without obstructing the view. It is often used at the top of stairs to provide a sense of openness while still providing some protection.

Half walls, also known as pony walls or knee walls, are low walls that are used to provide a visual barrier and support without obstructing the view. They are typically about waist-high and can be made of various materials, such as wood, brick, or stone.

Half walls are often used at the top of stairs to provide a sense of openness and allow natural light to pass through while still providing some protection. They can also be used to define a space, such as a landing or a sitting area, while still maintaining an open and airy feel.

In addition to being functional, half walls can also be decorative and can be used to add visual interest to a space. They can be finished with a variety of materials, such as paint, wallpaper, or tile, to match the decor of the room.

Half walls may require support in the form of columns or posts to ensure stability and prevent falls. It is important to follow building codes and guidelines when installing half walls to ensure they are safe and structurally sound.

Void Spaces

A void space is an area within a building or structure that is empty or not enclosed by walls, floors, or ceilings. Void spaces can be found in a variety of building types and serve different purposes, depending on their location and design.

Void spaces can provide natural light and ventilation, as well as create a sense of openness and connection to the outdoors. They may also serve as emergency exits or provide structural support to the building. It is important to carefully consider the design and function of void spaces in order to ensure that they are safe and effective.

A light well is a vertical shaft or opening in a building that is used to allow natural light to enter the interior spaces. A stairwell is a vertical void space within a building that is used to access multiple floors.

In conclusion, walls, handrails, balustrades, and guardrails are all types of barriers that are used at the top of stairs to provide safety and support. Full walls and half walls can be used to enclose or define a space, while handrails, balustrades, and guardrails are used to provide support and prevent falls.

So, the question remains what is best for you and your family? You can sit down with a member of our sales team for a collaborative discussion on your next move to get your project into motion.

Book a meeting with one of our experienced sales consultants or drop into our display homes today.