Step-by-Step 

Open Riser & Steel Spine Staircases

Open riser stairs feature floating timber treads supported by a central steel spine or side stringers, completely omitting the solid vertical risers. This structure allows light and views to pass straight through, making them ideal for narrow homes, compact layouts, or open-plan living areas that need extra light flow. From a construction standpoint, open riser stairs carry a high level of complexity. They demand precise structural steel fabrication, hidden floor anchorage to eliminate bounce, and strict adherence to building code gap limits to ensure safety without compromising the open, weightless look.

Closed Risers with Integrated Storage

For homes where every square meter counts, closed riser staircases with integrated under-stair storage offer the ultimate blend of function and style. By fully enclosing the vertical risers, the cavity beneath the staircase becomes a functional space for custom-built push-to-open cabinets, hidden pull-out drawers, or concealed utility rooms. This approach works exceptionally well in space-conscious inner-city terraces, busy family homes, or main entryways. The builder’s challenge here lies in precise coordination—the framing carpenters and custom joiners must align their tolerances perfectly so all door reveals and paneling sit flush with the surrounding walls.

Traditional Closed Timber Staircases

A classic choice for traditional and modern homes alike, closed timber staircases feature solid treads and risers fully boxed in between walls or balustrades. These can be finished in rich natural timber, engineered hardwood, or carpeted to provide superior acoustic dampening between levels. Structurally, these sit at a lower-to-moderate difficulty level. They rely on straightforward timber framing and stringer installation, offering a durable, cost-effective, and quiet solution that is perfect for private bedroom wings, quiet hallways, or loft access.

Winder & L-Shape Staircases

When floor space is restricted, winder staircases use angled or triangular treads to wrap around a corner instead of requiring a full, flat landing. This layout allows for a continuous run in tight footprints, making it a go-to solution for compact terrace extensions, heritage modernisations, and split-level entries. Installing winders requires a moderate-to-high level of skill on site. The set-out mathematics must be spot-on to guarantee that every riser height and tread depth remains completely uniform around the turn for safety and comfortable walking cadence.

Key Technical Considerations Before You Build

Before locking in a design, several behind-the-scenes factors require careful planning:

• Structural Subfloors: Heavy steel spines and floating cantilevered treads require early structural reinforcement, such as concrete pads or doubled floor joists, to handle localized point loads.

• Building Code Compliance: Uniformity is everything. Riser and going dimensions must meet strict Australian Standards across the whole flight to eliminate trip hazards.

• Lighting Integration: Pairing a stairwell with an overhead skylight or slimline vertical balustrade bars helps bounce natural light deep into previously dark ground-floor spaces.

• Early Joinery Planning: Deciding on under-stair storage, recessed step lights, or concealed handrails early allows electrical conduits and framing adjustments to be completed seamlessly before plasterboard goes up.

High Quality. Design Inspired. Functional. That’s the True Cut Building standard.

Which staircase stands out most to you for your own upcoming project?

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