Open Riser vs. Closed Riser Staircases: Which Is Best For Your Property?
The staircase—it's often the first architectural statement a visitor encounters. Today, a staircase design is no longer just functional; it's an essential part of your home’s overall aesthetic, setting the tone for the entire space.
When homeowners, architects, and designers come to us, one of the first big questions is simple, but crucial: Open Riser or Closed Riser?
The choice genuinely comes down to your personal preference and practical requirements. We're here to help you decide which style enhances the staircase aesthetics and fits your property's specific needs.
Let’s dive into the differences, cut through some confusing jargon, and figure out the perfect application for each type of staircase design.
First, Let’s Clear Up the Staircase Terminology
The Tread: That's the horizontal surface you step on.
The Riser: This is the vertical space between one tread and the next.
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The Key Takeaway: When we talk about an open riser staircase, we mean there is a deliberate, empty gap in that vertical space. When we talk about a closed riser staircase, that gap is filled in (usually with timber).
The Classic Choice: The Closed Riser Staircase
The closed riser staircase is the conventional standard, a reliable backbone of stair design found in most traditional and many contemporary homes.
What Defines It?
A closed riser means a full panel fills the vertical space between each step, completely closing the gap.
Why Choose a Closed Riser Staircase?
Timeless & Traditional: They offer a sense of solidity and classic elegance, perfectly matching traditional or classic interiors.
Acoustics & Storage: Closed risers naturally dampen sound more effectively. Crucially, the design allows you to utilize the space underneath—perfect for concealed storage or a utility space, making the staircase design highly functional.
Cost-Effective for Scale: These are generally the most straightforward and cost-effective staircase installations, making them a solid choice for developers building modern homes at scale.
The Modern Statement: The Open Riser Staircase
Open riser staircases are gaining incredible traction among architects and homeowners craving a minimalist, elegant, and airy aesthetic.
What Defines It?
The gap between the steps (the risers) is left open, creating a transparent void.
Why Choose an Open Riser Staircase?
Creates a Spacious Feeling: The main benefit. By allowing your eye and light to travel through the gaps, the open riser staircase feels incredibly lightweight and less imposing—a huge win for open-plan layouts.
Harnessing Natural Light: The gaps allow natural light to flood through the space, making darker hallways and stairwells immediately brighter and more welcoming. This significantly enhances the room's staircase aesthetics.
Design Flexibility: The open riser staircase offers huge freedom. You can opt for minimalist timber treads, sleek glass downstands, or industrial metal details, tailoring the design to your precise personal taste.
Safety First: Open Riser Staircases and UK Building Regulations
We hear this question often: "Is an open riser staircase safe, especially with young children?"
It’s a valid concern, but here is the essential assurance:
When professionally built, open riser staircases are just as safe as closed riser designs.
This is because all staircase designs in the UK must adhere strictly to UK Building Regulations. These regulations stipulate a critical maximum dimension: the gap between the treads (the open riser) should be no more than 100mm. This prevents objects from passing through, ensuring safety is never compromised for elegant staircase aesthetics.
The Verdict: Open Riser vs. Closed Riser
The choice comes down to balancing your aesthetic ambition with your practical needs:
| Feature | Choose Closed Riser Staircase If... | Choose Open Riser Staircase If... |
| Aesthetic | You prefer a classic, solid, and traditional feel. | You want a modern, airy, and minimalist statement. |
| Light | Blocking light isn't an issue, or you need wall space. | Maximizing natural light flow through the room is critical. |
| Function | You need under-stair storage (cupboard, utility). | You want the staircase to feel as invisible as possible. |
Ready to start designing the perfect staircase for your property? Contact us today to discuss your vision for your open riser staircase or closed riser staircase and see how we can bring your ideal design to life.
