Modern Staircase
Ideas UK 2026
12 bespoke staircase designs from real Continox projects across the UK — floating staircases, central spine designs, glass balustrades and LED lighting to inspire your next project.
A modern staircase is one of the most impactful changes you can make to your home. Whether you're planning a new build, undertaking a major renovation or simply replacing an outdated flight, a bespoke contemporary design transforms the character of your entire interior — from hallway to first floor.
Every idea below is a real project designed, manufactured and installed by Continox — not renders or stock photography. All designs are fully compliant with UK Building Regulations Part K and include design, 3D visuals, manufacture and installation. Prices start from £7,900 excl. VAT.
12 Real Projects
Modern Staircase Ideas & Designs
Open Tread Floating Staircase with Glass Balustrade
The floating staircase remains the most requested design in contemporary UK homes. Open treads with no visible risers create a sense of weightlessness and allow light to travel freely between floors. Paired with a frameless glass balustrade, the result is a staircase that feels architectural rather than functional — a centrepiece rather than a corridor.
Central Spine Staircase – The Architectural Centrepiece
A single structural steel spine beam supports each tread on both sides — creating a dramatic, cantilevered effect that no side-stringer design can replicate. The central spine is our most popular design precisely because it works in any interior: new build, renovation or open-plan conversion. Glass balustrade and solid oak treads are included as standard.
Steel Plates Staircase – Bold Industrial Design
Where the central spine is architectural minimalism, the steel plates staircase is bold and structural. Solid steel plate stringers are left visible and proud — powder-coated in any RAL colour. Full-height frameless glass panels with point-fixed chrome fittings complete the look. Ideal for homes where the staircase is meant to make a statement of material honesty.
Frameless Glass Balustrade – Maximum Light & Space
Nothing opens up a staircase like a frameless glass balustrade. With no visible posts or rails interrupting the sightline, the glass appears to float alongside the staircase — letting natural light travel freely through the space. Point-fixed with brushed stainless steel spider fittings, the system is as structurally robust as it is visually minimal.
Design Guide
How to Choose the Right Design
Not sure which staircase type suits your home? Use this guide to match your situation to the right design.
| Your Situation | Best Design | From | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| Open plan new build with double-height void | Central Spine | £9,500 | Treads cantilevered both sides – no stringer to block sightlines |
| Replacing an existing straight flight | Floating Staircase | £7,900 | Fits existing opening, minimal structural change required |
| Feature staircase – must become the centrepiece | Central Spine U-shape | £13,000 | Double landing, full-width glass both sides – maximum impact |
| Industrial or contemporary loft interior | Steel Plates | £8,500 | Exposed steel plate stringers complement industrial materials |
| Loft conversion with limited floor space | Floating L-shape | £9,400 | Compact footprint, 1 turn accommodates tight floor plan |
| Maximum light between floors | Any + glass both sides | +£350/m | Frameless glass both sides eliminates all visual barriers |
| Architect-designed prestige home | Fully Bespoke | £11,500 | Unlimited design freedom – concept to installation |