A Floating Staircase Is The Sleek, Structural Statement Your Project Needs
If you’re looking for a staircase that does more than just connect two floors, a floating staircase might be exactly what your design needs. These sleek, modern features have become a favourite with architects, designers, and developers alike and not just for the way they look.
Whether you’re working on a high-end home, a luxury office fit-out, or a contemporary apartment block, a floating stair offers the rare blend of minimalism and engineering muscle. But what exactly is a floating staircase, how does it work, and what should you consider when planning one?
Let’s walk through it.
What Is a Floating Staircase?
A floating staircase is designed to appear unsupported or “floating” without visible stringers or structural framing. The treads are typically fixed directly into the wall, giving the illusion that they’re suspended in mid-air.
In most cases, this style is achieved using a cantilever staircase system. Here, each tread is anchored into a hidden steel structure within the wall or support spine. The result is a clean, minimalist look with an open, architectural feel.
They’re a showstopper. But they’re also serious structural elements that need proper planning, fabrication, and installation.
Why Choose a Floating Staircase?
Floating stairs are more than just a pretty face. Here’s why they’re worth considering:
Maximise light and space
With no visible supports or risers, they let light flow and make even tight areas feel open.
Create architectural impact
They instantly give the look of a room an uplift, and add value to the property.
Pair well with other materials
Steel treads can be finished in timber, glass, or stone. Or go all-in with industrial powder-coated steel.
Customisable to layout
Straight, quarter-turn, or split-level… floating staircases can be designed to suit a range of floorplans.
The Engineering Behind the Aesthetic
A cantilever staircase might look delicate, but it’s anything but. The structure relies on hidden steelwork, either built into the wall or concealed behind a cladding panel, that provides support and rigidity to each tread.
The internal steel is usually fabricated to tight tolerances using laser cut profiles for precision and repeatability. This ensures each tread is properly aligned and able to bear the expected load.
At Smart Steels, we fabricate our cantilever supports in-house using CNC machinery and high-strength mild steel. Every component is made to fit your layout, wall type, and tread finish.
Key Considerations for Floating Staircases
Before you commit to the floating look, it’s worth thinking through a few key details:
Wall Structure
Cantilever treads need to be fixed into something solid. A stud wall won’t cut it. We’ll assess whether your wall is suitable or if a support structure needs to be added.
Building Regulations
Floating stairs still need to comply with UK building regulations. This includes minimum tread depths, maximum riser heights, and balustrade safety. We’ll make sure your design meets all relevant standards.
Balustrades or No Balustrades?
The minimalist look often means omitting handrails, but this isn’t always possible, especially in commercial or public settings. Frameless glass is a popular way to meet safety requirements without disrupting the aesthetic.
Weight and Load Capacity
Materials matter. Whether you’re using solid timber treads, steel plates, or glass, we’ll calculate the right support to match.
Who Are Floating Staircases For?
They’re most common in:
- High-end residential builds
- Boutique hotels
- Creative office spaces
- Contemporary apartment developments
- Showroom or reception areas
Floating stairs aren’t just a visual choice. They signal attention to detail, quality of materials, and design confidence. They’re a subtle way to say “we’ve thought this through.”
Fabricated by Smart Steels
We handle the entire process, from concept and design to fabrication and installation. Our cantilever staircase systems are made in-house, so you can expect:
- Precision laser cut steel supports
- Full compliance with UK regulations
- Material flexibility to suit your interior scheme
- Site-specific installation by experienced professionals
Whether you’re an architect looking to bring a concept to life, or a contractor who needs a fabrication partner you can rely on, we’re here to help.
If you’re planning a feature staircase that blends engineering with elegance, talk to Smart Steels about a floating design.
FAQ
What is the difference between a floating staircase and a cantilever staircase?
Floating staircases use a cantilever system to appear unsupported. The terms are often used interchangeably.
Can floating staircases be used in commercial buildings?
Yes, as long as they meet all relevant safety regulations. We design for both residential and commercial projects.
What materials can be used for floating treads?
Steel, timber, glass, or stone are common choices. The structure beneath is typically steel for strength and stability.
Are floating staircases safe?
Absolutely. When fabricated and installed correctly, they’re just as safe as traditional stairs. We ensure full compliance with all relevant standards and regulations.
Can you add a balustrade to a floating staircase?
Yes. Frameless glass is a popular option to maintain the open look while meeting safety requirements.
Do floating stairs work in small spaces?
They’re ideal. Because they don’t visually block the room, they help open up tight areas and improve flow.