Designing a new staircase is a really exciting project, whether you’re performing property refurbishments, extending your home, or you’re involved in a new build project. The look and feel of every staircase can define everything from the appearance and function of your home to showcasing your unique property style.
When it comes to the different types of materials available, two of the most popular options are timber and metal staircases. But which one should you choose? Here are some factors to consider.
Benefits of Timber Staircases
Wooden staircases such as timber are a highly popular choice thanks to their traditional and warm appearance, creating an inviting home. It’s one of the most comfortable materials underfoot, especially when compared to metal, so many people choose timber for the treads, even if other parts of the design incorporate different materials.
Its strength means timber is used for all staircase styles and sizes, including those which need to be built in narrow widths. The different shades, colours and patterns of the wood can define the overall appearance of your interiors, whether you want a dark shade for a traditional look or paler tones for lighter spaces.
Timber staircases are ideal for those who wish to achieve a timeless design.
Benefits of Metal Staircases
Metal staircases are one of the most popular choices with home builders and interior designers thanks to the intricate styles available and the quality of the material. Its versatility is thanks to how easy metal is to mould into the desired shape, so it can be used for many different staircase designs, including spiral staircases in small spaces. It also allows for intricate patterns to become part of the design for a more beautiful and unique look.
There are many different types of metal you can choose for your new staircase, including stainless steel, mild steel and brass. For example, stainless steel appeals for its long-lasting finish, but mild steel is better for the most customised designs which require the metal to be rolled and twisted into unique shapes.
Whatever metal you select for the design, it should have great structural integrity and can be easily manipulated into the shape you want.
Choose the Right Staircase Material for You
Which materials are right for you will depend on the overall look and feel you want to create. For example, metal can often look industrial by itself, but you can incorporate it into beautiful designs with the right expert on board. You may also like to consider the maintenance involved with any type of material, including the varnishing, cleaning and repainting requirements, as well as how easily the surfaces may get scuffed.
If you can’t decide, you can even combine different materials to create a bespoke staircase design. For example, metal can be paired with almost any other material (such as glass or wood) due to its neutral appearance. You could even choose timber treads for a softer feel, and then a different material for the balustrade, risers or spindles.
Need more advice?
At DDC London, our expert designers are here to help you create a bespoke staircase for your home, operating across South East locations such as Croydon, Ealing and Hammersmith. To discuss your ideas with an expert, contact us.
