When upgrading or renovating a staircase, an often-forgotten but important decision is your railing spindles. Your staircase and wooden spindle are part of your home, and the style you choose can greatly define its overall aesthetic. Giving your home a fresh, modern look or a more elegant, traditional look through the design of the staircase spindles. Here, we will briefly discuss the characteristics of modern staircase spindles compared to more traditional styles.
Why Wooden Railing Spindles Matter
Spindles are needed to hold the handrail and support the railing, but they also play a big role in how your staircase looks and feels. No matter if you have a classic, modern, or traditional staircase, the spindles add a special touch to the design.
The Staircase is a critical component of your home, serving as a connector between levels. The style of your staircase can have a profound effect on the flow of your home’s design. Perhaps no design element is as important to the staircase’s overall aesthetic as the spindle style.
Modern Wooden Railing Spindles
We have noticed a recent shift in spindle designs towards more simplistic profiles with pure lines and a more rectangular form. These simple spindles offer a very clean line aesthetic and can be suited to a number of different interior designs, including modern, open-plan living spaces or minimalist-style interiors.
Common characteristics of modern wooden railing spindles include:
- Straight, square, or rectangular profiles
- Minimal decorative carving
- Light or neutral wood tones
- Smooth finishes with subtle grain patterns
- Wider spacing paired with clean railing systems
Modern stair rails often feature floating stairs, open risers, and a mix of materials like wood, metal, and glass. Our solid, well-crafted spindles can give your staircase clean lines and a minimalist look.
Traditional Wooden Railing Spindles
These spindle styles are decorative and traditional. Used in many colonial, farmhouse, and classic designs. Traditional wooden railing spindles typically feature:
- Turned or rounded profiles
- Decorative carvings and detailing
- Rich, darker wood stains
- Ornamental shapes and curves
- Symmetrical, classic layouts
Mixing Modern and Traditional Elements
While some choose to go modern or traditional with their staircase, there is a third option available, known to many as transitional. Offering the best of both worlds, a transitional staircase provides a warm, inviting design while incorporating modern touches for a fresh twist. One of the most popular options to go transitional is a square baluster staircase with a traditional 2 3/8” wood handrail. A classic look, this style combines the two familiar components in a visually pleasing manner.
This idea is especially useful during a partial renovation. It preserves some of the original elements and adds new character to the space.
Choosing wooden railing spindles is important because they should match your home’s style. Picking the right spindle also helps make sure your staircase is safe and looks good.