Where do I start when planning a staircase?
Planning a staircase can feel complicated at first.
There are sizes, layouts, building regulations, and cost differences to consider — and getting these right early will save time and avoid problems later.
This guide explains the key things you need to understand before choosing a staircase, whether you’re replacing an existing stair or planning a new one.
1. Understand your budget and expectations
Staircases vary significantly in cost depending on their construction, materials, and level of detail.
As a starting point, it helps to understand whether you are looking for:
A straightforward, functional staircase
A higher-quality staircase built to last
A staircase that makes a design statement
Changes to construction type, materials, and balustrades can cause large jumps in cost, so it’s important to align expectations early.
2. Choose the right construction type
The construction of a staircase has a major impact on both appearance and cost.
For example:
Closed-string staircases with standard treads are typically the most cost-effective
Cut-string staircases, open risers, or thicker treads increase complexity and price
Hardwood staircases cost more than softwood alternatives
Understanding these differences early helps avoid redesigning the staircase later.
Learn about staircase construction types
3. Make sure it complies with UK Building Regulations
Staircases in the UK must comply with Building Regulations, including rules on step height, pitch, headroom, and balustrade safety.
Many images found online show staircases that would not be compliant in the UK, particularly around climbability and gaps in balustrades.
Designing with compliance in mind from the start avoids costly changes later.
View UK staircase regulations
4. Measure the key dimensions
Before choosing a layout, you need a few key measurements:
Floor-to-floor height (finished floor to finished floor)
Available opening size
Ceiling height for headroom
These measurements do not need to be perfect at an early stage — being within a reasonable tolerance is usually enough to determine what layouts are possible.
How to measure your staircase
5. Work out the right staircase layout
Once you know the height and opening size, you can determine whether:
A straight staircase will fit
A winder staircase is required to save space
A landing or turn is needed
Different layouts suit different spaces, and some options allow you to gain steps where a straight stair would not fit.
Â
6. Think about comfort as well as compliance
Comfortable staircases balance step height (rise), tread depth (going), and pitch.
A staircase that complies with regulations can still feel uncomfortable if these proportions are poorly chosen.
Understanding rise and going early helps achieve a staircase that feels right in everyday use.
Understanding rise & going
What to do next
If you’re early in the process, start by reviewing the guidance above and looking at example layouts.
If you already have measurements, you can explore staircase types and plans to identify an option close to what you need.