Podcast Summary: Dear Alice | Interior Design Episode: Top Staircase Trends: Modern, Traditional & Custom Designs
Release Date: June 19, 2025

In this engaging episode of Dear Alice, hosts Jessica Bennett and Suzanne Hall delve into the pivotal role of staircases in interior design, exploring modern, traditional, and custom trends. Responding to a listener's query, the duo provides expert insights, showcases their portfolio, and offers actionable advice for homeowners looking to elevate their staircase aesthetics.

1. Introduction to Staircase Importance

Time Stamp: [00:23]

Jessica and Suzanne kick off the episode by emphasizing the often-underestimated significance of staircases in home design. They highlight stairs as multifaceted architectural elements that offer both functional and aesthetic value.

Jessica [00:51]: "You can do a lot more with stairs than I think people realize or give themselves credit to express."

2. Listener Question: Floating vs. Traditional Stairs

Time Stamp: [03:23]

The main discussion centers around a question from listener Karen Sambonga, who seeks advice on integrating floating stairs into her transitional-style home without overpowering existing traditional elements like a wood-burning fireplace and limestone mantel.

Karen's Question [03:23]: "I need your help navigating one of the major design points in my home. A set of floating stairs that are part of the entry and the main living area... I'm worried that the floating stairs will make too modern of a statement and start dictating other design elements in the interior."

3. Floating Staircases: Pros, Cons, and Design Cohesion

Time Stamp: [05:00 - 12:10]

Jessica and Suzanne delve into the intricacies of floating staircases, discussing their aesthetic appeal and the potential challenges they pose in maintaining design harmony within a home that blends traditional and modern elements.

Jessica [05:00]: "With everything you've said, Karen, I feel like you play this a couple different ways. If you do a floating staircase... it poses a modern statement that could clash if not carefully integrated."

They explore the balance between allowing floating stairs to be a statement piece versus integrating them with traditional elements. The hosts caution against adding heavy design elements, like iron balustrades, to floating stairs, as it can disrupt the "floating" illusion.

Suzanne [06:33]: "It feels like from you describing your home, Karen, that you should go with the set of stairs, just regular stairs... that feels like the right thing."

4. Understanding Staircase Anatomy

Time Stamp: [12:59 - 14:15]

To equip listeners with foundational knowledge, Suzanne breaks down the essential components of staircases, explaining terms like newel posts, balustrades, stringers, treads, and risers.

Suzanne [12:59]: "Let's start with the newel post. That is what the handrail runs into... the balustrades obviously run from the handrail to the stair..."

Additionally, they touch upon the importance of adhering to standard dimensions for safety, emphasizing the 7-11 rule for treads and risers.

Jessica [14:16]: "For the tread and the riser, it's a 7-11. Usually, you have an 11-inch deep tread and you have a 7-inch riser."

5. Portfolio Showcase: Floating vs. Traditional Designs

Time Stamp: [14:27 - 22:50]

Jessica and Suzanne present examples from their portfolio to illustrate various staircase designs:

• Floating Staircase in Dallas: Highlighting minimalistic glass railings that preserve the floating effect, making it a stunning architectural feature without overwhelming the space.

  Suzanne [09:20]: "This is a floating staircase, if you will... it feels like a backbone in this home. It's just stunning."

• Custom Balustrades in Utah: Showcasing ornate iron work that complements traditional elements, proving that custom designs can bridge the gap between modern and classic aesthetics.

  Jessica [19:03]: "The rhythm of this was so much fun... those brass fittings were like... it's still very, very unique."

They also discuss safety considerations, such as adhering to building codes that mandate balusters be no more than four inches apart to prevent accidents, especially in homes with children.

Jessica [20:43]: "Make sure you have a good builder... you have to comply with safety codes."

6. Custom Design Insights and Aesthetic Balance

Time Stamp: [22:10 - 35:17]

The conversation shifts to the artistry of custom staircase designs. The hosts emphasize the importance of maintaining a visual rhythm and avoiding cluttered aesthetics. They advocate for unique balustrade designs that add character without compromising the staircase's primary function and beauty.

Suzanne [25:17]: "It's about creating your own rhythm. Don't just buy a package; customize elements to make it uniquely yours."

Jessica shares tips on enhancing existing staircases with affordable modifications, such as painting balustrades with tinted lacquer to refresh their appearance without a full remodel.

Jessica [34:54]: "If you're going to do that, make sure it's glossy. It feels new."

7. Practical Advice for Homeowners

Time Stamp: [35:03 - 39:03]

Concluding the technical discussion, Jessica and Suzanne offer practical advice for homeowners:

• Budget-Friendly Upgrades: Suggest painting existing stair components or adding runners to elevate the design without significant expenditure.

  Jessica [38:15]: "Be creative. Even if you're looking through a catalog, there are ways to make stock pieces more interesting."

• Customization vs. Stock Components: Encourage homeowners to personalize their staircases, whether through custom fittings or thoughtfully selecting and modifying stock parts to fit their unique aesthetic.

  Suzanne [38:46]: "You can create your own rhythm by mixing different balustrade sets."

8. Final Thoughts

Time Stamp: [39:03 - 37:44]

In the wrap-up, Jessica and Suzanne reiterate the importance of choosing staircase designs that reflect the homeowner's personality and complement the overall home aesthetic. They inspire listeners to view staircases not just as functional structures but as central design elements that can significantly enhance a home's ambiance.

Jessica [37:45]: "Stairs are an architectural moment. Make them count."

Key Takeaways:

• Staircases as Design Statements: Beyond functionality, staircases serve as pivotal design elements that can define a home's style and character.

• Floating vs. Traditional: Floating staircases offer a modern, minimalist aesthetic but require careful integration to maintain design harmony, especially in homes with traditional elements.

• Customization is Key: Personalized balustrades and unique design details can elevate a staircase, making it a signature feature of the home.

• Safety and Standards: Adhering to building codes ensures safety without compromising on style.

• Budget-Conscious Upgrades: Even on a limited budget, staircases can be refreshed and enhanced through creative modifications like painting and adding runners.

This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for homeowners and design enthusiasts aiming to make informed decisions about staircase designs, balancing aesthetics, functionality, and personal style.