JQ218
dating quickly. The emphasis has shifted from maximalist detail to timeless execution. “Clients today are prioritising quality over quantity in design,” comments Richard McLane, founder and design director of staircase specialist Bisca. “They’re seeking focal points that complement their space rather than dominate it – and materials that age beautifully, not fleetingly.”
Though expressive and sometimes flamboyant, these designs have stood the test of time. Homeowners continue to enjoy their functionality and form decades later – proof that bold design, when well- executed, never truly dates.
Refined elegance and rising restraint – 2020s
In contrast, ultra-modern styles favour clean lines, minimal material palettes, and an intentional absence of visible fixings. Balustrades are often in glass, capped with slim handrails, creating uninterrupted sightlines and enhancing the perception of open space. The curved staircase in Middlesex
above exemplifies this ethos – visually light, architecturally sharp, and designed to integrate seamlessly with the surrounding architecture.
Fast-forward to the present today, and two dominant design directions have emerged: the classical revival and the ultra-modern minimalist. The classical approach, drawing inspiration from Georgian symmetry, introduces more regulated patterns and decorative restraint. Materials are often warm and familiar – such as oak or wrought iron – but employed in refined and contemporary ways. Staircases like the classical curved oak design below demonstrate how traditional references are now balanced with modern proportions and subtle elegance.
What’s driving the shift in staircase design? Several factors have influenced this shift in design attitude. First, the explosion of digital media and online platforms has made design inspiration universally accessible. While this has empowered clients with greater awareness, it has also introduced constraints for designers. Thirty years ago, most clients approached a staircase commission with an open mind, relying on the expertise and creativity of the designer. Today, many arrive with curated boards and a strong sense of what they want – placing the designer in a more interpretive role. Moreover, a growing awareness of longevity in design – both aesthetically and environmentally – has made clients more cautious. Homeowners are increasingly steering away from styles or materials that may feel ‘on-trend’ but risk
A subtle return to tradition Interestingly, while the forged aesthetic still holds appeal, it has evolved from the expressive exuberance of the 90s, into something more ordered and intentional. Rather than replicating Gaudí-like fluidity, clients seeking decorative ironwork now favour subtler, often Georgian-inspired motifs – where symmetry and balance prevail over elaborate flourish. This shift is not a rejection of creativity, but rather a refinement of it. Clients still want sculptural staircases – but with greater architectural harmony, tactile quality, and an enduring relevance to the overall design scheme of the home.
The staircase as an experience Above all, the staircase is no longer just a means of vertical movement. It is an emotional and spatial experience – an opportunity to create impact, influence flow, and evoke a sense of arrival. From repurposed canal lock gates
to suspended bronze ribbons, today’s staircases can be architectural centrepieces or quiet sculptural gestures. What has remained consistent throughout the decades is the desire to create something unique; something that elevates the home and reflects the character of its occupants. The challenge for architects and designers moving forward is not just to innovate - but to create staircases that balance creativity with context; ambition with authenticity; and design with durability.
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