This WF floating timber staircase was supplied for a contemporary new-build property in Alton, Hampshire. Designed as part of an upside-down house layout, the staircase plays a key role in connecting the entrance level to the main living spaces above, while maintaining an open, light-filled feel throughout the home.
The Brief
The brief for this floating staircase focused on:
Creating a light, open staircase suitable for an upside-down house design
Incorporating solid oak treads to add warmth and contrast to the modern interior
Designing a quarter-turn configuration to suit the compact footprint
Maintaining openness with open risers and minimal structure
Providing a safe yet unobtrusive landing balustrade
Introducing a curved corner handrail to soften the geometry and improve flow
The staircase needed to function as both a practical access route and a key architectural feature within the new build.
Floating staircase in Alton- Technical Specifications
| Floor to floor height | 2730mm |
| Risers | 14 @ 195mm |
| Staircase Width | 900mm |
| Tread Type | 42mm oak |
| Treads Going | 235mm |
| Balustrade Type | 13mm Ø Stainless Steel Brushed Spindles to stair |
| Handrail | 160 x 42mm Oak |
| Stringer | 42mm oak stringer to wall |
| Finish of Timber | Matt Lacquer |
| Additional | 3300mm landing balustrade with 10mm glass panels |
The Solution
To meet the brief, we designed and supplied a bespoke WF floating staircase featuring:
A quarter-turn layout carefully configured to suit the property’s entrance level
Solid oak treads, finished to highlight the natural grain and complement the interior palette
Open risers, allowing light to pass freely through the stairwell
A single wall stringer, enhancing the floating appearance
A curved corner oak handrail, providing a smooth transition at the turn and adding a crafted detail
A landing balustrade designed to maintain safety while preserving the open feel of the space
The floating effect is achieved by cantilevering the oak treads from the wall stringer, with structural support discreetly integrated into the handrail and balustrade system. This approach ensures the staircase feels visually light while remaining robust and compliant.
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