“Architecture should reflect its time and place while also striving for timeless qualities.” – Frank Gehry.
It’s hard to think of a better example of this than floating staircases.
If you go into a modern Melbourne home that is being renovated or built from scratch, you will probably see one. They are smooth, open, and frequently imperceptible. Floating staircases are quickly becoming a distinctive element of modern Australian homes. They balance design and function in very interesting ways.
However, they are more than just a style statement. You might be asking if floating stairs are safe if you’re going to be building or remodelling your home. Is it truly worth the money? And how do they do in our distinct Melbourne weather and way of life?
Let’s dive deep and unpack what you need to know before making the leap.
What Is a Floating Staircase, Exactly?
A floating staircase, sometimes called a cantilevered or open riser staircase, makes it look like the steps are floating without any apparent supports. They are usually attached to one wall or beam and use smart engineering to make the space look open and spacious.
You can often see them with glass balustrade stairs, wooden treads, or simple metalwork to make them look even more modern.
There is a lot of heavy-duty structure going on underneath, even if they look light and decorative. There is a specific combination of steel frame, anchoring, and following Australian construction requirements that makes every floating staircase work.
Why Floating Staircases Are Booming in Melbourne
Melbourne has long been a place where new ideas in building come together. This city has embraced floating staircases, which is part of a larger trend in architecture that emphasises clean lines, open-plan living, and integrated aesthetics.
Key Benefits:
- Visual Lightness: Great for modest homes in Melbourne or narrow terraces. These staircases make the inside of the house feel bigger.
- Customisable Materials: Homeowners can choose from a wide range of materials for their staircases, including wood, steel, and glass.
- Design Flexibility: Floating staircases look great in both very modern flats and character homes that need a strong contrast.
- Long-Term Value: A good staircase is more than just useful; it’s a part of the building’s design.
Real estate experts say that modernising your stairs can raise the value of your home by up to 5% in design-driven suburbs like Carlton, Fitzroy, and Elwood.
Are Floating Staircases Safe in Australian Homes?
Fear of floating staircases is the most common myth. They are safe when they are designed and built precisely by licenced specialists.
Floating stairs must meet certain requirements for tread depth, riser height, balustrade spacing, and weight-bearing capability in order to meet Victorian building codes.
That’s where Melbourne’s skilled staircase builders come in. They know the rules, the local construction codes, and how to make things safe without ruining the style.
If you have kids or older family members, handrails and balustrades are even more important. You can choose:
- Frameless glass for a barely-there look
- Steel railings for industrial strength
- Timber railings for warmth and contrast
- Popular Materials for Floating Staircases in Melbourne
1. Timber Floating Stairs
These are a must-have in every Australian home because they add warmth, texture, and a sense of timelessness. Hardwoods like Victorian Ash and Spotted Gum are both attractive and long-lasting.
2. Steel Floating Stairs
These are common in companies and cities due to their strength, fire resistance, and stylish design. Powder-coated black or white creates an industrial style that is sharp.
3. Glass Balustrades
Great for making light brighter and giving things a “barely there” look. Perfect for houses where natural light and flow are very important.
Floating Staircase Cost in Melbourne
Prices vary widely depending on materials, design complexity, and the builder’s expertise.
Here’s a general breakdown:
| Material | Average Cost Range (AUD) |
| Timber | $10,000 – $18,000 |
| Steel with Timber Treads | $12,000 – $22,000 |
| Glass Balustrade | $5,000 – $15,000 extra |
Keep in mind that these are only preliminary guesses. The price will be affected by things like custom features, structural changes, or building problems (such as narrow heritage dwellings).
Always talk to expert stair builders in Melbourne to get the right numbers. They are able to inspect your house and make demands.
Pros and Cons of Floating Staircases
Pros:
- Maximises space and natural light
- Adds a sleek, architectural focal point
- Wide range of material and design choices
- Boosts resale value in design-conscious suburbs
Cons:
- Higher cost than standard staircases
- Needs expert engineering and permits
- Some designs may not be ideal for pets or young children
Tip: A closed riser version might make things safer and still look modern.
Space-Saving Staircase Ideas for Small Melbourne Homes
Floating staircases work best in small places, but there are various ways to make them more efficient:
- Use under-stair storage or shelving
- Opt for spiral or helical stairs in loft-style homes
- To generate openness, use glass balustrades and light-colored stairs.
Floating steps without railings can appear dramatic, but they are not safe for families with kids. In these situations, balustrading in Melbourne solutions provide both compliance and visual harmony.
Related: Invisible Staircase
Real Stories: Melbourne Homes That Made It Work
A family in Richmond put in steel floating stairs with Victorian Ash treads and a full glass balustrade. This made their compact terrace home look great.
A couple in Eltham employed floating staircases made of wood and vertical balustrades that looked like ropes to create an eco-luxe look that fit in with the bushland around them.
A project in Sunshine stood out because it used a sleek, curving stair balustrade design in a two-story restoration, which made the whole house feel like it was floating.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
Absolutely — if it’s done right.
In Melbourne, floating staircases are more than simply a passing trend. They say what they want: light, modern, bold, and insightful.
At first, they do cost more. But many homeowners think they are worth the money when you think about how they improve the look of the property, how easy they are to sell, and how much usable space they create.
Just make sure you hire reliable pros in Melbourne who expertise in floating staircases, know what the council wants, and can handle the whole process.
Ready to Elevate Your Space?
Floating staircases are a great way to make your home look and feel better, whether you’re remodelling, building, or just looking for ideas.
Do you need professional help? Our Melbourne-based custom staircase makers can help you make something that fits your environment perfectly.
Stairworx is the best name in Melbourne for designing and building staircases. We make high-end, custom floating staircases that are both beautiful and strong.
Let’s turn your steps into more than just a way to get up. Let’s make them a work of art!
