What are Floating Stairs?

Floating stairs are simply stairs without any supporting structure underneath the steps. If the building codes allow for it, they may not even have handrails. They are called “floating” stairs because without any supporting structure, the steps look like they are “floating” in space.

Advantages of Floating Stairs

Floating stairs can be a dramatic and eye-catching accent to a room’s design. A room featuring floating stairs also can appear more open, as you can look “through” the stairs to the other side of the room. Floating stairs can also be a good choice for small spaces, because you can still use the free space underneath the stairs.

Drawbacks of Floating Stairs

Because floating stairs have empty space underneath and between the steps, there’s a greater chance for injury climbing the stairs – the empty space means you may get your foot caught between the steps, leading to a serious accident. Some people with poor vision or poor coordination are therefore very uncomfortable using floating stairs. Since many floating staircases also lack handrails, they’re unsafe for younger children as well. 

Floating stairs also have to be very securely anchored in place, because there is no supporting structure underneath – ensuring the stairs’ stability can lead to an extra expense.