Design Ideas for Glass Balustrades on Stairs and Landings

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.