Open Riser vs. Floating Stairs

If you've been exploring modern home design, you've probably come across the term "open riser staircase" — and maybe "floating stairs" in the same breath. While these two terms are often used interchangeably, they actually mean different things. Understanding the distinction is a good starting point before diving into whether this style of staircase is right for your home.

Open Riser vs. Floating Stairs: What's the Difference?

An open riser staircase is defined by what it's missing: the vertical panel (called a riser) that traditionally fills the gap between each step. Remove the riser, and you're left with open space between the treads, giving the staircase a light, airy appearance.

Floating stairs, on the other hand, refer to how a staircase is structurally supported. A floating staircase uses a concealed support system, often a steel stringer running beneath the steps, so the underside appears clean and uncluttered. Floating stairs can have either open or closed risers.

In practice, many modern staircases are both: open riser and floating. But it's worth knowing they describe two different qualities — one visual, one structural.

FLIGHT Mono: An open-riser, floating staircase.

Common Configurations

Open riser staircases come in several layouts to suit different spaces and home styles:

Straight stairs run in a single, uninterrupted line from one floor to the next. They're the most minimalist option and work especially well in open-concept homes where the staircase itself becomes a design feature.

L-shaped (90°) stairs make a single turn, typically at a landing platform. This configuration is a practical choice for tighter spaces, since it allows the staircase to change direction rather than requiring a long, straight run.

Switchback stairs make a full 180° turn at a landing, essentially doubling back on themselves. These are ideal when vertical space is limited and a straight or L-shaped run simply won't fit.

How Are Open Riser Stairs Supported?

The most common support method for open riser staircases is a stringer, a structural beam that carries the weight of the steps. Modern open riser designs typically use one of two approaches:

• A mono stringer, which is a single steel beam running beneath the center of the treads
• A double stringer, which uses two beams, one on each side

Some open riser staircases, particularly cantilevered designs, skip the stringer entirely and are anchored directly into the wall, giving an even more dramatic floating effect.

The Appeal of Open Riser Stairs

The most obvious draw is aesthetic. Open riser staircases feel lighter and less imposing than traditional closed-riser stairs, and they allow natural light to pass through rather than blocking it. In smaller rooms, this can make a meaningful difference in how spacious the space feels.

A U-Turn FLIGHT Mono allows lots of light into a home.

Beyond looks, they're also versatile. Open riser stairs can be configured in a range of layouts and customized with different tread materials and thicknesses — typically ranging from 1½" to 4" — to match the overall design of the home. Outdoor applications are possible too, with weather-resistant tread options available for exterior staircases.

From an installation standpoint, open riser staircases with steel mono stringers are generally straightforward to put together, making them a viable project for experienced DIYers as well as professional contractors.

A Note on Safety

One question that often comes up is whether floating stairs are as safe as traditional staircases. The short answer is yes — as long as the staircase is built to meet your local building codes and relevant international standards. Code requirements typically address things like tread depth, riser opening limits, and railing height, all of which are designed to ensure safe use. A properly built open riser staircase is no less safe than a conventional one, it simply looks different.

Related topics

Learn the basics

• What are Floating Stairs — Understand the core structure behind floating stair designs.
• Types of Staircases — Compare straight, L-shaped, switchback, curved, and spiral layouts.
• Are Floating Stairs Safe? — Review code, riser gaps, and child-safe options.

Plan your project

• How Can I Customize My FLIGHT Staircase? — Explore stair styles, tread finishes, railing, and lighting options.
• What Railing Should I Choose for My Stairs? — Match your stair style with the right railing system.
• How much do FLIGHT Floating Stairs Cost? — See how layout, materials, and options affect price.