26 September, 2025
Räckesbutiken Sweden AB, a Swedish e-commerce company specialising in railing solutions for homes and gardens, continues its European expansion. The company has now officially launched in the United Kingdom under the new brand Balustradedesign, with a local e-commerce site www.balustradedesign.co.uk.
“The UK is a natural next step in our growth journey. After success in 13 European markets, we have built a model for local e-commerce with customer service in each language – something we are now bringing to the UK,” says Björn Johansson, CEO of Räckesbutiken Sweden AB.
Balustradedesign provides UK customers with the same proven journey that has been established across Europe: a digital design tool to create bespoke railings, tailor-made production in Sweden, and delivery directly to the doorstep – all fully compliant with UK building regulations.
“We know that many homeowners and professionals feel frustrated with railing projects that are either too generic, too complex to install, or too costly. Our mission is to make the process simple, inspiring, and reliable – from design to installation,” says Björn Johansson.
“For us, every railing is unique. We want to give UK customers the same opportunity to create solutions that fit their homes and lifestyles, with Swedish quality, production and design at the core,” adds Björn Johansson.
About us
Founded in Sweden in 2011, Räckesbutiken has grown into one of Europe’s leading online retailers of railings. Today we operate in 13 European markets, serving thousands of customers each year with tailor-made solutions for gardens, patios, balconies, and staircases. The launch in the UK marks an important milestone in the company’s ambition to become Europe’s leading supplier of railing solutions for both private and professional customers.
For more information, please contact:
Björn Johansson, CEO, Räckesbutiken Sweden AB
bjorn.johansson@rackesbutiken.se
+46 706 68 71 15
24 September, 2025
Glass balustrades are chosen for their openness and lightness – creating boundaries without blocking views. But one question often comes up in both homes and commercial spaces: should you include a handrail, and if so, which type?
It’s important to note the difference between the two terms: the balustrade is the overall protective barrier, while the handrail is the part designed to be gripped for safety and support. The decision to use one is not only about style. Safety standards, building regulations and practical use all affect whether a glass balustrade should be installed with or without a handrail.
Glass Balustrades With or Without Handrails
Frameless balustrades are often designed without a visible top rail, letting the glass panels stand on their own. This is a popular choice for patios, balconies and terraces where uninterrupted views are the priority.
Still, there are situations where a handrail is recommended:
- On long staircases, where continuous grip is needed
- In public or commercial buildings with strict safety rules
- In family homes where children or elderly residents use the stairs
Without a handrail, the balustrade relies entirely on the glass strength and fixings. With one, the load is shared and the balustrade often feels more secure in daily use. Frameless systems can also be combined with a slim handrail for added stability without losing transparency.
Balustrade Handrail Options – Timber, Steel and Oak
When adding a handrail to glass, the material changes both the look and feel of the system.
Common choices include:
- Timber: oak, ash or other hardwoods add warmth and contrast against clear glass
- Stainless steel: gives a modern, architectural impression and works well outdoors
- Powder-coated aluminium: light, corrosion-resistant and available in different colours
The choice often depends on whether the balustrade is placed indoors or outdoors, and how it connects to surrounding materials. A timber rail may suit an indoor staircase, while stainless steel is better on a windswept balcony.
Wall-Mounted vs. Integrated Handrails
A handrail doesn’t always have to sit directly on the glass. In staircases especially, wall-mounted handrails are often added alongside glass balustrades.
This gives flexibility: the glass keeps the space open, while the wall rail provides grip and meets regulations. On landings, an integrated rail on top of the glass may feel more natural, but in narrow stairwells a wall-mounted option can save space and reduce visual clutter.
Balustrade and Handrail Rules in the UK
UK building regulations set out clear requirements for balustrade heights and load-bearing capacity. In many cases, a handrail helps systems comply with these standards, especially in public use.
- Stairs and ramps: a handrail is required at heights between 900–1000 mm
- Balconies and terraces: minimum 1100 mm, with or without handrail
- Commercial buildings: stricter testing applies, often requiring a continuous rail
While private homes may allow frameless designs without a top rail, anyone planning a balustrade should check local requirements before deciding.
Balustrades That Balance Safety and Style
Adding a handrail to a glass balustrade is not a one-size-fits-all decision. For some spaces, frameless glass panels create the ideal look. For others, a tactile rail in timber, oak or steel adds both comfort and assurance.
At Balustradedesign, we provide glass balustrades with or without handrails – tailored to regulations, materials and the way you want the space to feel.
24 September, 2025
A well-designed patio isn’t just an outdoor surface – it’s an extension of how we live. A place for early breakfasts in the sun, quiet evenings with a book, or weekends spent around the table with friends. And while the furniture, planting and layout all contribute to the atmosphere, one detail can have an even bigger impact: the boundary.
Glass railings have become a popular way to define patios. They frame the space, offer shelter from the wind, and let light and views pass freely. But what makes a glass system work well outdoors depends on more than just how it looks.
Glass Patio Balustrades – Creating Flow From Indoors to Out
One reason homeowners choose glass balustrades for their patios is the seamless connection they create between house and garden. Especially in homes with large patio doors or open-plan living areas, continuing the transparency outside keeps everything feeling light and cohesive.
Clear panels let you enjoy the full view of the garden, even when seated. And when the garden sits slightly lower than the patio, a subtle glass edge helps mark the boundary without cutting off the landscape.
For more privacy, frosted glass or smoked tints can provide just enough screening – ideal for townhouses or terrace homes where neighbours are close by.
Outdoor Glass Balustrades as Wind Protection
Even a low frameless railing can make a noticeable difference on a breezy day. By blocking wind at sitting height, the patio becomes more usable throughout the year. Morning coffee in spring or dinner on a summer night becomes more comfortable – without needing heavy fencing or tall hedges.
Glass panels can also help to:
- Define different activity zones, like dining and relaxing areas
- Make open patios feel more enclosed without blocking light
- Add a polished, modern touch to outdoor design
With the right placement, a few panels can change how the entire space feels – and how often it’s used.
Installing Glass Balustrades on Different Patio Surfaces
Patios come in many forms: raised stone terraces, ground-level pavers, or stepped platforms in sloping gardens. That’s why flexibility matters.
Glass railing systems can be installed in different ways, including:
- On top of paving or concrete, using a base-mounted channel
- On the face of low retaining walls, using side-fix profiles
- Between planters or stone features, for a natural division
Choosing the right setup ensures the railing blends into the patio – rather than competing with it. Some designs also support a handrail if extra guidance or grip is needed on steps or sloped patios.
A Subtle Structure That Reflects the Garden
Unlike timber fences or metal railings, glass reflects the greenery around it. It disappears when the sun is out and catches the light as evening falls. And over time, it becomes part of the garden’s rhythm – quietly supporting the experience without demanding attention.
Benefits of using glass on the patio:
- Opens up views and connects spaces
- Protects without closing off
- Low maintenance and long-lasting
Some combine glass with soft planting, lighting or stone to create layered outdoor zones. Others wrap corners or steps to guide movement and soften edges.
A Personal Outdoor Space – Framed With Clarity
Installing a glass railing on your patio is about more than safety. It’s a way to shape how the outdoor space is used – how it connects to the garden, how comfortable it feels in different weather, and how it looks from inside the home.
At Balustradedesign, we tailor patio railings to fit your space, your materials and the way you live – so the result feels like part of the garden, not something added on top of it.
24 September, 2025
Balcony balustrades are essential for safety, but they also help define the style, comfort and openness of a space that’s often exposed, visible and closely connected to both the home and the outdoors. From small Juliet balconies to full-size terraces, the balustrade plays a central role in how a balcony is used and experienced.
This guide takes a closer look at suitable designs, key regulations, and what to consider when choosing a balustrade for your balcony.
Different Types of Balconies – Different Needs
Not all balconies are the same, and neither are the requirements for the balustrade. In practice, the right solution depends on the size, height and placement of the balcony.
Here are some common types:
- Juliet balconies: Narrow or shallow platforms, usually outside a full-height door or window. These typically require a front-mounted balustrade system, often made of glass.
- Cantilevered balconies: Projecting slabs or structures that need a strong edge barrier.
- Roof terraces: Larger balconies with open sides, where wind and visibility matter more.
- Inset or recessed balconies: Sheltered within the building’s facade – allowing for more flexible balustrade styles.
Each of these benefits from different approaches in terms of material, mounting and height.
Balcony Balustrade Height in the UK
According to UK building regulations, a balcony must have a protective barrier if the drop is greater than 600 mm. The minimum required height for a balustrade on external balconies is:
- 1100 mm from finished floor level
This applies to both private and communal balconies. On roof terraces and exposed locations, taller balustrades or integrated wind protection may also be considered – as long as they comply with visibility and load-bearing requirements.
Glass and Metal Balustrades for Balcony Use
The most commonly used materials for balcony balustrades are:
- Glass: Provides a clear view, blocks wind, and creates a modern appearance. Can be frameless, tinted or frosted for privacy.
- Aluminium or steel: Often used for posts, clamps or full-frame balustrades. Lightweight and corrosion-resistant.
- Wire or rod infills: Horizontal or vertical steel wires offer a light and minimal aesthetic, though not always suitable for higher balconies due to climb risk.
- Perforated metal or sheet panels: Used where airflow and partial visibility are preferred.
The choice of material affects not just appearance, but also how the balcony feels to use – open or enclosed, warm or technical, exposed or private.
Balcony Balustrade Ideas Based on View and Privacy
A balcony is often one of the most exposed parts of a building – facing wind, rain, direct sunlight and temperature shifts. That makes durability important, but so is the visual and spatial experience.
Key design factors to consider include:
- How much view do you want to preserve?
Frameless glass panels maximise openness.
- Do you need shielding from wind or neighbouring buildings?
Frosted glass or panels can improve comfort without closing off the space.
- Is the balcony in full sun or near the coast?
Powder-coated aluminium and stainless steel are better suited for harsh conditions.
It’s also worth thinking about how the balustrade connects to the facade – whether it should blend in or contrast, and how it relates to doors, windows and cladding.
Tailoring the Balustrade to the Balcony
There is no single “best” balustrade for balconies – only the one that fits the context. A compact urban balcony might benefit from slimline posts and clear glass, while a countryside terrace may call for taller glass with tinted finishes. In modern buildings, the balustrade is often part of a visual rhythm; in heritage settings, it may need to follow planning restrictions.
Balustrade systems for balconies are available in a wide range of designs – from decorative steel patterns to sleek, frameless glass setups.
At Balustradedesign, we offer balcony balustrades made to measure – ensuring the right fit for both regulations and design goals, across all types of balconies and facades.
24 September, 2025
Adding a balustrade to a raised deck isn’t just about meeting safety requirements – it’s also a chance to frame the space, shape the view, and bring the whole outdoor area together. Whether you’re working with a small terrace or a large garden platform, the right deck balustrade can elevate both the function and the look of your space.
In this article, we go through popular design ideas, material combinations, and practical tips for planning a balustrade on decking.
When Is a Balustrade Required on Decking?
In the UK, building regulations state that if your deck is raised more than 600 mm from ground level, a balustrade or guarding is required for safety. But even on lower decks, many people choose to install a railing to define the edge, create zones or add a layer of protection.
The most common reasons for installing a deck balustrade include:
- Creating a safe boundary, especially for children and pets
- Preventing falls on raised platforms or garden steps
- Enhancing the overall design of the outdoor area
Depending on the deck layout and height, different systems may be more or less suitable – from low frameless panels to taller railings with posts and handrails.
Glass Deck Balustrades for a Light and Open Look
Glass is one of the most popular materials for balustrades on decking – and with good reason. It allows light to pass through, protects against wind, and doesn’t obstruct the view of your garden.
There are several types of glass balustrade systems used on decks:
- Frameless glass for an uninterrupted view
- Clamped panels with stainless steel or aluminium posts
- Tinted or frosted glass for privacy and contrast
A glass deck balustrade suits both modern and traditional properties. It can soften the transition between house and garden, while still offering reliable fall protection.
Deck Balustrades with Metal or Timber Details
While glass is often the main component, other materials help shape the final look. Aluminium and stainless steel are commonly used for posts, handrails or fixings, especially in exposed or coastal locations. Powder-coated finishes offer colour options and additional protection.
Wooden handrails are another choice, particularly if the decking itself is timber. These provide warmth and can match steps, fencing or furniture nearby.
Some homeowners also opt for:
- Wire balustrades for a nautical or modern style
- Rope balustrades on lower decks in informal garden settings
- Metal spindles for a more traditional or cottage-style finish
These options are often more visible than glass but can work well when the goal is to highlight the boundary of the deck.
Deck Balustrade Ideas with Practical Features
Outdoor balustrades are exposed to weather all year round. That means the system you choose needs to handle UV, rain, wind and temperature shifts – without constant maintenance.
When planning your balustrade, it’s worth considering:
- How the fixings will attach to the deck structure
- Whether the system allows for drainage and expansion
- The required balustrade height for your platform
Most systems are available with both top-mounted and side-mounted options, depending on how the edge of the decking is built.
Choosing a Balustrade That Complements the Space
A well-chosen balustrade helps define the deck as a usable space – not just somewhere to stand, but somewhere to sit, gather and enjoy the view. Whether you choose a frameless glass system, a deck balustrade kit or a combination of materials, the goal is the same: to make the area safer, more comfortable and more visually coherent.
At Balustradedesign, we offer a wide range of balustrade solutions for decking – tailored to suit the layout, height and materials of your outdoor space.
24 September, 2025
Glass balustrades are commonly used on staircases and landings – both for safety and to create a more open, modern look. Whether you’re planning a new staircase or updating an existing one, a glass balustrade can make a noticeable difference in how the space feels and functions.
Below we go through some of the most common design options, what to consider before choosing a style, and how to adapt the balustrade to suit different types of interiors.
Clear Glass for Light and Openness
One of the main reasons glass is used on stairs is to let in more light. In many homes, staircases are placed near windows or in the middle of the floor plan. Using clear glass instead of spindles or solid panels helps the light flow freely between levels.
This is especially useful on narrow staircases or internal landings, where too many solid surfaces can make the space feel darker and more enclosed. With glass, the area opens up – and the staircase often feels less bulky, even if the dimensions are the same.
Frameless Glass Balustrade Designs for a Minimal Look
Frameless glass balustrades are becoming more common in both new builds and renovations. Instead of visible posts or clamps, the glass panels are fixed directly into a base channel, either on top of the floor or on the side of the stair.
This type of balustrade gives a very clean, uninterrupted appearance. It works well in open-plan spaces and modern homes where minimal detailing is part of the overall style.
Advantages of frameless designs:
- Visually minimal – no visible fixings or posts
- Enhances light and flow between levels
- Suitable for both stairs and landings
Some systems include a thin handrail on top, while others are completely without – depending on safety regulations and the required balustrade height.
Stainless Steel or Timber Handrails
In homes where the balustrade needs to feel more tactile or visible, adding a handrail in a contrasting material can make a difference. Wood adds warmth and works well in traditional or Nordic-style interiors, while stainless steel gives a more industrial or contemporary expression.
Common handrail options include:
- Oak or ash for a natural, softer finish
- Stainless steel for a modern staircase balustrade
- Wall-mounted handrails as a practical complement to glass
These details help tailor the balustrade to the rest of the interior, and can also improve usability – especially on long staircases.
Frosted or Tinted Glass on Landings
While most staircases use clear glass, some people choose frosted or tinted glass on the landing – especially if it overlooks a more private area or if the balustrade continues onto a mezzanine. Frosted glass provides privacy but still lets through plenty of light.
Grey or bronze-tinted panels can also add contrast or match other details in the home. These finishes are subtle, but can make a noticeable difference in the final look.
Glass Balustrades That Fit Different Staircase Layouts
Glass balustrades on stairs and landings do more than create a modern appearance – they influence how rooms connect, how light travels, and how open the home feels across different levels. Choosing the right design often comes down to the layout of the staircase, the materials in the surrounding space, and how the area is used from day to day.
For many, a made-to-measure internal glass balustrade from Balustradedesign offers the best combination of style, safety and spatial clarity.
12 September, 2025
A beautifully designed railing for stairs does more than just keep everyone safe—it can completely transform the look of your home. Whether you are building a new staircase or upgrading an existing one, the right railing adds stability, complements your interior, and creates a striking focal point.
Why a Railing for Stairs Matters
A sturdy railing provides essential support for family members and guests, ensuring everyone can navigate the stairs safely. It also contributes to your home’s overall design. Modern railings can blend seamlessly with contemporary interiors or add a timeless touch to traditional settings.
Key benefits of a railing for stairs:
- Supports all users, including children and elderly family members
- Enhances your home’s style with modern or classic finishes
- Meets UK safety regulations and building standards
Inspiring Ideas for Your Stair Railing
When planning your staircase, there are many ways to combine safety and design. Frameless glass railings create an open, airy feel and allow natural light to flow throughout your home. Stainless steel railings offer a sleek, modern finish that is durable and easy to maintain. Combining wood and metal provides warmth while keeping a contemporary edge.
You can also explore creative touches:
- Integrated lighting for a modern, ambient look
- Subtle decorative panels to complement your interiors
- Custom handrail shapes for added character
Choosing the Right Material
The material you select has a big impact on both aesthetics and practicality.
Material options and benefits:
- Glass: Transparent and modern, ideal for unobstructed views and maximum light
- Stainless Steel: Strong, corrosion-resistant, perfect for minimalistic or industrial interiors
- Wood: Adds warmth and character, can be paired with metal for a contemporary finish
Each option can be tailored to suit your home’s style, ensuring your railing is both functional and visually appealing.
Installation and Care
Professional installation is recommended, especially for heavy glass or custom metal railings, to ensure safety and durability.
Maintenance tips for lasting beauty:
- Clean glass panels regularly to maintain clarity and shine
- Check metal railings periodically for loose fittings or corrosion
- Polish or varnish wood railings to preserve appearance
A well-maintained railing will retain its beauty and function for years to come.
Enhancing Your Home with Modern Stair Railings
A thoughtfully chosen railing can elevate the entire look of your staircase. Frameless glass, stainless steel, or wood railings can all be customised to suit your interiors. With the right combination of materials, finishes, and design, your staircase becomes a central feature that is as safe as it is stylish.
Explore made-to-measure railing solutions at Balustradedesign to find the perfect match for your home, combining elegance, practicality, and long-lasting durability.
