Contemporary balustrade for entrance steps
For these entrance steps, the customer chose a stainless steel wire balustrade from the Tenso range, combined with a timber wall-mounted handrail. The balustrade is mounted on top of the timber decking and defines the steps without blocking light or sightlines.
The horizontal wires run between round posts in marine-grade stainless steel, chosen for outdoor use. The timber top rail gives a warm, inviting impression and links visually to the surface finish of the stair treads.
How do you create safe, clearly defined entrance steps?
The solution in this project is based on four components that, together, form a clear and cohesive staircase.
- Stainless steel wire balustrade
- The wires define the staircase and let light and views through. The posts are round and in marine-grade stainless steel.
- Timber top rail
- Timber has a softer appearance and feels warmer to the touch than metal.
- Wall-mounted handrail in matching timber
- The handrail on the wall makes it easier to get up and down, especially when it is slippery. Because it is made of the same timber as the top rail, the whole feels cohesive.
- Complements modern architecture
- The contrast between stainless steel and timber works particularly well on houses with a modern, pared-back look, and the solution suits both outdoor steps and decking.
Why combine a balustrade on one side with a wall-mounted handrail?
For a staircase with a wall on one side, the wall can support a handrail, while the open side can have a balustrade that marks the boundary between the different levels. This gives you support on both sides without making the staircase feel heavy.
If the handrail and top rail are in the same material, the solution looks cohesive even when the two parts are in different places.
