Ever wondered how a staircase can make your home look bigger, brighter, and more modern all at once?
Looking for cool and modern ways to design your stairs?
These open riser stair ideas can make your home feel brighter, bigger, and a lot more stylish—without blocking light or space.
1. Floating Wooden Treads with Metal Stringers
This design uses thick wooden treads paired with strong metal stringers for a sleek, modern look.
The open space between each step highlights the airy appeal of open riser stair ideas.
It’s perfect for homes aiming for a minimal yet industrial feel.
2. Glass Side Panels with Oak Treads
Combining transparent glass with warm oak wood creates a striking balance of modern and natural aesthetics.
These open riser stair ideas allow maximum light flow while offering structural support through clear side panels.
Ideal for smaller spaces that need to feel bigger and brighter.
3. Cantilevered Concrete Open Risers
Cantilevered stairs anchored to a wall appear to float without visible support, giving a clean and bold appearance.
These concrete open riser stair ideas offer a raw, sculptural feel perfect for contemporary or brutalist interiors.
They add drama and function without crowding the space.
See, 21 Creative Stair Riser Ideas You’ll Love to Try
4. Industrial Steel Frame with Walnut Steps
Steel and walnut together create an edgy yet warm contrast that works well in lofts or urban settings.
These open riser stair ideas mix rugged structure with refined finish.
The design keeps the space open while making a strong architectural statement.
5. Spiral Open Riser Staircase
A spiral shape saves space while adding a visual centerpiece to your interior.
These open riser stair ideas blend practicality and style, offering vertical movement without blocking light.
They’re ideal for compact homes or studios with a modern twist.
6. Zigzag Profile Steel Stairs
Featuring a zigzag side profile, this type of staircase brings bold geometry to your home.
These open riser stair ideas are both structural and decorative, making them popular in modern architectural designs.
They offer strength without compromising the openness of the layout.
7. Open Risers with Cable Railing
Stainless steel cable railings add a minimalist and slightly nautical feel when paired with open risers.
These open riser stair ideas maintain visibility and airflow, making rooms feel more expansive.
They’re great for modern homes that need safety without bulk.
8. Lighted Treads with LED Strips
LED lighting under each tread brings a dramatic and functional glow to your staircase.
These illuminated open riser stair ideas improve nighttime visibility while highlighting the floating effect.
They’re ideal for high-end interiors or spaces that double as art installations.
Watch, 19 Stunning Staircase Gallery Lighting Ideas You’ll Wish You Tried Sooner
9. Black Steel Stringers with Pine Steps
The deep contrast between black steel and light pine makes for a bold visual pairing.
These open riser stair ideas blend contemporary materials with rustic charm.
The structure remains light and airy while offering strong support.
10. Open Risers with Vertical Metal Rods
Instead of typical railings, vertical metal rods act as both a guardrail and a design feature.
These open riser stair ideas keep the stairwell open while ensuring safety and structure.
It’s a creative way to play with line and form in stair design.
11. Minimalist White Treads with Hidden Brackets
Pure white treads mounted with concealed hardware make the stairs look like they’re floating on air.
These open riser stair ideas emphasize simplicity, blending effortlessly with all-white or Scandinavian interiors.
The clean lines contribute to a seamless, uncluttered space.
12. Floating Stairs with Glass Balustrade
Floating stairs paired with a glass balustrade create a nearly invisible staircase design.
These open riser stair ideas are especially useful for small or dark interiors where transparency is key.
The design is elegant, safe, and space-enhancing.
Watch, 25 Stunning Stained Stair Tread Ideas You’ll Want to Try Today
13. Open Risers with Rope Railing
Using natural rope as a railing brings a nautical or rustic charm to the design.
These open riser stair ideas combine open concept with tactile, warm materials.
Great for beach houses or bohemian-inspired interiors seeking unique stair details.
14. Curved Timber Open Riser Staircase
A soft curve made from solid timber treads adds motion and elegance to the staircase.
These open riser stair ideas break away from rigid lines and offer a more organic flow.
They become a sculptural centerpiece within traditional or modern homes alike.
Watch also, 20 Creative Staircase Lighting Ideas to Brighten Up Your Stairs
15. Double Stringer Design with Floating Effect
Double stringers on either side give the illusion of floating steps with extra support.
These open riser stair ideas provide stability while maintaining a light footprint.
This design suits homes that prioritize both aesthetics and structural integrity.
16. Rustic Reclaimed Wood Open Stairs
Reclaimed wood treads add history and texture to a modern open design.
These open riser stair ideas bring character while keeping the space open and breathable.
They’re ideal for farmhouse or eco-conscious interiors with a vintage touch.
17. Open Risers with Perforated Metal Treads
Perforated metal offers both safety and transparency when used as stair treads.
These unique open riser stair ideas allow light and air to pass through every surface.
Perfect for industrial interiors that value durability and visual lightness.
18. Mixed Material Stairs with Wood and Concrete
Combining warm wood with cool concrete results in a balanced, modern look.
These open riser stair ideas use materials creatively to enhance texture and contrast.
This mix keeps the stairs visually interesting while allowing space to breathe.
19. Sleek Aluminum Stringers with Maple Steps
Lightweight aluminum stringers give a futuristic edge when matched with maple treads.
These open riser stair ideas suit homes aiming for high-tech or minimalist themes.
They’re visually subtle yet offer reliable strength and a floating feel.
20. Geometric Open Risers with Angular Support Beams
A stair with bold, angled supports turns geometry into art.
These open riser stair ideas break the mold with dynamic shapes and architectural presence.
They draw the eye upward and keep the layout feeling open and expressive.
Open riser stair ideas are a great way to bring light, space, and modern design into any home.
Whether you prefer wood, metal, glass, or a mix of materials, these stair styles help create an open and airy feel.
From simple floating steps to bold architectural designs, each idea offers both function and style.
Choosing the right one depends on your space, taste, and how much of a statement you want your stairs to make.
With the right open riser design, your staircase can become more than just a way to move between floors—it can be a highlight of your entire home.
