What are Floating Stairs？

April 29, 2025 by YanAmanda

Floating stairs, also known as cantilever or open-riser stairs, are a striking architectural element in modern design. Unlike traditional staircases, floating stairs are designed to give the illusion that the steps are "floating" in midair, with little to no visible support. This minimalist style is increasingly popular in contemporary homes, lofts, and commercial spaces, offering both form and function in equal measure.
In this blog, we'll explore what floating stairs are, weigh their pros and cons, look at the different types available, and answer common safety questions.

What are Floating Stairs?

Floating stairs are staircases in which each tread (step) appears to be unsupported and hovering in space. In reality, these stairs rely on carefully engineered supports, typically hidden inside walls or under the steps themselves. Some designs use a central metal spine, while others utilize stringers concealed within the wall or glass side panels for added stability.
The defining characteristic of floating stairs is their open and airy aesthetic. Because they often lack risers (the vertical part of a step), they allow light to pass through, making spaces feel bigger and more modern. Floating stairs are commonly made from wood, metal, or glass, and they're often paired with cable or glass railing systems to maintain their sleek, uninterrupted lines.

Pros and Cons of Floating Stairs

Pros of Floating Stairs

1. Aesthetic Appeal

Floating stairs are undeniably stunning. Their open-riser design gives the illusion that each step is "floating" in mid-air, creating a visually captivating element in any space. This minimalistic, contemporary aesthetic fits perfectly in modern homes, upscale offices, and even art galleries. The clean lines and lack of bulky supports allow the staircase to act as both a functional structure and a piece of architectural art.
2. Space Optimization
Because floating staircases don’t rely on solid risers or traditional stringers, they allow for better use of visual and physical space. The area underneath the stairs can remain open, making the room feel larger and less cluttered. This is especially beneficial in smaller homes, loft-style apartments, or open-concept layouts where maximizing space is a priority.
3. Versatility

Floating stairs come in a wide range of materials and configurations. You can choose from wood, glass, steel, or even concrete treads, paired with metal railings or minimalist cable railing systems. They work well with many design styles, from industrial to Scandinavian to ultra-modern. Whether you prefer a warm wooden tread with a matte black railing or a sleek all-metal setup, floating stairs offer the flexibility to suit your vision.
4. Light and Air Flow

One of the standout features of floating stairs is their ability to enhance natural light. The open risers and minimalist structure allow light to pass through the staircase instead of blocking it, improving overall brightness in the room. This openness also contributes to better air circulation and gives the environment a breathable, airy quality that traditional stairs can’t match.

Cons of Floating Stairs

1. Higher Cost

Floating staircases tend to be more expensive than standard stair systems. The custom design, premium materials, and precise engineering required all contribute to the higher price tag. In many cases, professional installation is necessary, which adds to labor costs. For homeowners on a budget, the investment may need to be carefully weighed against the visual and spatial benefits.
2. Complex Installation
Installing floating stairs is a more involved process than putting in a conventional staircase. These systems require detailed structural planning to ensure safety and code compliance, particularly if the treads are anchored to one side only. Load-bearing considerations, alignment, and integration with the surrounding architecture must all be meticulously calculated.
3. Maintenance Needs

While floating stairs look sleek, they often require more frequent maintenance. Open risers tend to collect more dust, and materials like glass or brushed metal may show fingerprints or scuff marks more easily. Depending on the material, wooden treads might also need refinishing over time. If your staircase is a focal point in the room, keeping it clean and polished becomes part of your routine.
4. Limited Load Capacity

Compared to traditional staircases, some floating stair designs may have a lower weight capacity, particularly if they rely on minimal support structures or lightweight materials. While well-built floating stairs are completely safe for everyday use, heavy foot traffic or commercial applications may require reinforced designs. It's important to discuss intended use with your architect or builder to ensure the staircase can meet your needs without compromising safety.

Types of Floating Stairs

By Material

1. Wood Floating Stairs

Wood is a classic and warm material that works beautifully in floating stair designs. Common choices include oak, walnut, or engineered hardwoods. Floating wood stairs are often paired with minimalist metal or cable railing systems to balance the organic feel with a modern edge.

Best for: Modern rustic, Scandinavian, or transitional interiors.

2. Metal Floating Stairs

Metal treads—often made from stainless steel or aluminum—offer a sleek, industrial look. They’re extremely durable and well-suited for commercial spaces or bold residential interiors. Powder-coated black or brushed steel finishes are particularly popular for achieving a modern aesthetic.

Best for: Industrial, contemporary, or high-traffic environments.

3. Glass Floating Stairs

For a truly futuristic and open feel, glass treads take transparency to the next level. Made from tempered laminated glass, these stairs are stronger than they appear and often combined with stainless steel stringers or hidden support. They enhance light flow and offer a striking “invisible” effect.

Best for: High-end interiors or luxury showcases where visual lightness is key.

4. Mixed Materials

Many floating stairs blend materials for both style and strength—for example, wooden treads with a steel frame or glass railings combined with metal supports. These combinations allow homeowners to enjoy the best of both worlds in terms of function and design.

Best for: Customized, designer-built projects with specific aesthetic goals.

By Shape

1. Straight Floating Stairs

The most common layout, straight floating stairs consist of a single, continuous flight. This design is simple, elegant, and space-efficient, especially when paired with open risers and minimalist handrails.
Best for: Open-concept homes and minimalist interiors.

2. L-Shaped Floating Stairs

L-shaped stairs incorporate a 90-degree turn, typically with a small landing or angled transition. This configuration is great for corner spaces or layouts that require directional change without a full spiral.
Best for: Modern homes with layout constraints or multi-level living.

3.U-Shaped Floating Stairs

These stairs make a full 180-degree turn with two parallel flights and a landing in between. Though more complex, they offer a grand architectural feel and allow the staircase to double back without taking up excessive horizontal space.
Best for: Larger homes or entryways seeking a bold focal point.

4.Spiral or Curved Floating Stairs

Spiral or curved floating stairs are sculptural and space-saving. While they require precise engineering, their visual impact is unmatched. The treads seem to twist and rise around a central axis, creating a striking vertical flow.
Best for: Tight spaces or artistic interiors where the staircase serves as a centerpiece.

By Support Method

1. Single Stringer (Mono Stringer) Floating Stairs

This design features one central beam—usually made of steel—that supports all the treads from underneath. It's one of the most common floating stair structures, offering both stability and visual lightness. The central stringer can be exposed or concealed, depending on the design.
Best for: Clean, modern looks with strong architectural lines.

2. Double Stringer(Dual Stringer) Floating Stairs

With two parallel support beams—typically mounted under the outer edges of the treads—this method offers greater load distribution and structural balance. It’s often used in commercial applications or wider staircases.
Best for: Large or high-traffic staircases that need extra support.

3.Hidden or Cantilevered Support

In cantilevered stairs, each tread is anchored directly into a load-bearing wall, giving the illusion that the steps are floating completely unsupported. This creates the most visually striking effect, but requires careful engineering and a strong structural wall.
Best for: High-end, minimalist designs where invisibility is key.

4. Zig-Zag Floating Stairs

This structural style features steel supports bent in a zig-zag shape beneath the treads, combining aesthetic appeal with rigid structure. It provides a decorative, geometric element while still maintaining floating aesthetics.
Best for: Unique, contemporary interiors with a touch of edge.

How Much Do Floating Stairs Cost?

The floating stairs price can vary widely depending on the design, materials, and installation complexity. On average, the Muzata floating stairs cost ranges from 11,000 to $18,000 for a full project. Simple designs with basic steel structures and wood treads tend to be more affordable, while customized options with glass railings, premium hardwoods, or intricate steelwork can increase the price. Factors such as tread thickness, stair dimensions, handrail styles, and labor also influence the final floating stairs price. At Muzata, we offer modular floating stair kits and custom solutions to fit a wide range of budgets, helping you achieve a modern, elegant look without unexpected costs.

Are Floating Stairs Safe?

Yes—when designed and installed correctly, floating stairs are perfectly safe. However, due to their unconventional structure, many safety issues must be considered.
Key safety considerations include:
● Building Code Compliance: Floating stairs must meet local and international codes, particularly regarding tread depth, railing height, and load-bearing requirements.
● Support Systems: Hidden support structures must be professionally engineered to handle weight and traffic without shifting or sagging over time.
● Railing Systems: To prevent falls, it’s essential to use strong railing systems. Cable railing is a popular choice for floating stairs because it maintains visibility while providing safety.
● Non-Slip Surfaces: Using textured treads or non-slip finishes can prevent slipping, especially on wood or glass staircases.
For families with young children or older adults, additional measures like childproof gates or continuous handrails can help make floating stairs more user-friendly.