Open Tread Staircases for Modern Homes in the UK 

Seen those light-filled, open tread staircases in celebrity homes or Grand Designs? You can have one too, without the designer price tag... 

Open tread staircases are one of the most desirable features in modern homes right now. Loved by architects, interior designers and homeowners alike, they create a sense of light, flow and space that transforms your interior without compromising safety or structure. 

And thanks to smarter manufacturing and dry-fit technology, you can now achieve that high-end, open tread look at a price that works for real homes and real budgets. 

What is an Open Tread Staircase? 

An open tread staircase is designed without a solid vertical riser between each step. This creates a visible gap between treads, allowing light to pass through freely. The result is a staircase that feels light, open, and visually spacious. 

At Central Joinery Group, we precision-manufacture every staircase using CNC and traditional craftsmanship, and dry-fit it before delivery. That means every open tread design we create is built to meet UK Building Regulations and deliver long-term peace of mind. 

Why Everyone Loves Modern Open Tread Staircase Designs 

They Maximise Natural Light  

By allowing daylight to travel between levels, open treads brighten up even the darkest hallways or mezzanines. Without solid risers blocking light, your staircase can act as a channel for natural brightness throughout the home. 

They Create a Sense of Space 

The gaps between treads make the staircase feel less bulky and more like a design feature than a structure. This visual openness helps small homes feel larger and complements open-plan layouts beautifully. 

They Look High-End Without a High-End Price 

Open tread stairs give that luxury open tread staircase feel without the cost of imported or fully bespoke metal-only options. With Central Joinery Group, you get a handcrafted staircase that looks architectural and premium, but is priced for real-world homeowners. 

They Suit a Range of Styles 

From Scandinavian minimalism to barn conversions, open tread stairs adapt to timber, glass, metal and more. Want oak with black steel? We will make it match your vision with precision. 

They Add Value to Your Home   

Design-led homes command more attention. Open tread stairs act as a focal point that elevates the whole property, increasing perceived value and future buyer appeal. 

Where Do Open Tread Staircases Steal the Show? 

Make an Entrance That Turns Heads   

Impress from the moment someone walks in with a staircase that sets the tone for a sleek, design-led home. 

Let the Light Lead the Way in Mezzanines and Lofts 

Open treads unlock vertical flow, letting natural light travel between levels to transform once-dark spaces. . 

Elevate Everyday Living in Modern Renovations 

Whether it's white walls, steel accents or glass balustrades, open tread designs amplify contemporary interiors. 

Bring Drama to Barn Conversions 

Combine rustic beams with minimalist timber treads to create the perfect contrast of old-meets-new. 

Make Your Holiday Let Insta-Worthy   

Nothing says luxury like a staircase that photographs beautifully and elevates guest experience with visual wow-factor. 

Open Treads vs Closed Staircases: What’s the Difference? 

If you’re debating between a classic staircase and something that really turns heads, this side-by-side breakdown will help. Open tread staircases aren’t just a passing design trend, they’ve become the signature of high-style interiors, from Grand Designs builds to influencer home tours on Instagram. 

What is the difference between open and closed treads?     

Open tread staircases have visible gaps between each step, allowing light to pass through and giving the staircase a modern, open tread appearance. This design enhances openness, visual space, and architectural impact, making it ideal for contemporary or light-focused interiors. 

Closed tread staircases, on the other hand, have solid risers that offer a more enclosed look and traditional aesthetic. They provide added privacy between levels, conceal under-stair storage, and work beautifully in classic, cosy, or family-focused spaces. Both styles can be crafted to complement different interior visions. The right choice depends on the balance of function, design preference, and spatial goals.  

Why are Open Tread Staircase Designs So Popular? 

Open tread staircases are a bold design move that instantly upgrades the look and feel of your home. They create a sense of openness, invite in natural light, and give your interior a high-end edge without having to rip out walls or spend a fortune. They’ve become a favourite among self-builders, stylists, and homeowners who want their spaces to feel brighter, bigger and effortlessly elegant. 

You’ve probably seen them in luxury rentals, boutique hotels, or that one friend’s house everyone talks about. Now, they’re becoming more accessible thanks to smarter joinery methods and custom design options that fit real homes and real budgets. 

So if you’re after a staircase that feels more like a feature than a fixture, something that gets comments, compliments, and clicks, open tread could be the way to go. 

Built to Impress. Engineered to Protect. 

Every open tread staircase manufactured by us is more than just a visual statement. It’s a structurally sound, regulation-compliant solution crafted for real-life use. We combine precision engineering with dry-fit testing to ensure that every staircase meets Part K of UK Building Regulations, including tread spacing under 100mm for child safety and mandatory balustrades for side protection. 

These are staircases that deliver confidence underfoot, whether installed in a busy family home or a high-footfall holiday let. With us, there’s no trade-off between form and function. Just beautiful, durable staircases built for everyday use and long-term reliability 

Design-Led Looks Without the Luxury Price Tag 

Open tread staircases have become a signature feature in influencer homes, interior design magazines, and Grand Designs episodes, but they are no longer reserved for six-figure renovations. Thanks to smarter joinery methods and our dry-fit production process, Central Joinery Group makes these statement staircases truly accessible. 

With prices starting from around £5,000, you can achieve that light-filled, architectural style without the luxury-level cost. Whether you're building your dream home or upgrading a hallway, our in-house team helps you choose the right materials, layout, and finishes to get the designer look - without the designer markup! 

You don’t need a celebrity budget to get a staircase that feels custom, modern, and built to last. You just need the right joinery partner. 

FAQs: Everything You’re Googling About Open Tread Stairs, Answered 

What Would Your Open Tread Staircase Look Like? 

Take a moment to imagine it. 

 
Would it be handcrafted oak with black steel accents, paired with pale timber floors? 

 
Or softwood steps paired with rustic beams in a converted barn? 

The beauty of open tread staircases is how adaptable they are. Some designs feel sleek and minimalist. Others bring bold contrast and architectural drama. Whether your space is compact or expansive, there is always a way to create something striking and functional. 

At Central Joinery Group, we begin every project with a conversation. Our bespoke design review is your chance to explore ideas, ask questions, and get expert advice tailored to your home or development. No sales pressure. Just clear guidance, creative thinking, and joinery expertise to help you move forward with confidence. 

Ready to explore your options?