The Elegance of Free-Standing Stairs

At Great Lakes Stair, we frequently collaborate with clients looking to make a powerful visual statement in their homes, and one of our specialties is the free-standing staircase.

So, what defines a free-standing staircase?

Understanding Free-Standing Design

A free-standing staircase is, true to its name, a self-supporting structure. Unlike traditional designs enclosed by walls, a free-standing stair is characteristically open underneath. It securely attaches to the floor at the bottom and to the upper level at the top, but the space beneath it remains clear, allowing you to see or walk underneath.

This style can be achieved in different ways. Some designs are completely open, while others may incorporate a structural wall on one side, leaving the other side of the stair to appear “floating” or self-supported.

While you may hear terms like “floating,” “open,” or “self-supporting,” they all refer to this same impressive concept that we call a free-standing staircase.

Benefits of an Open Staircase

Choosing a free-standing design can fundamentally change the feel of a room.

• A Grand Appeal: By eliminating a solid wall, a free-standing stair can make a space feel significantly larger and more open.
• A Design Focal Point: The open space underneath is perfect for accent items. Customers often place a grand piano, fountains, plants, or art niches beneath the stairs, transforming the area into a dramatic focal point.
• Versatile Styles: This concept is not limited to one look. It can be applied to many stair styles, including straight, curved, circular, or spiral staircases.

Why Choose Great Lakes Stair for Your Project?

Many staircase manufacturers shy away from free-standing stairs because they can be complex and difficult to engineer correctly. At Great Lakes Stair, we embrace the challenge; this type of staircase has become one of our specialties.

• Experience: After 35 years of designing and building custom stairs, our team has mastered the unique requirements of free-standing designs.
• Expert Guidance: We handle all the details, covering building code requirements and guiding you on what structural enhancements are needed to support the staircase safely.
• Time and Money Savings: Our experience saves you both. We know what works and what doesn’t, helping you make the best choices for your project.
• The Right Questions: We ask the questions you might not even think of, ensuring your finished staircase is everything you expected and more.
• Renovation Possibilities: Even if you have an existing, closed-in staircase, we can often offer a free-standing option. By carefully considering your space, we may be able to create an open design, possibly by eliminating an existing wall.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s build something extraordinary together. If you’re ready to discuss your project, give us a call at 330-225-2005 or fill out the Free Project Review form on our website.