Staircases

Balustrade

A balustrade is the protective barrier formed along the open side of a staircase, landing, balcony or raised edge, usually comprising a handrail, supporting posts and balusters or panels.

On a timber staircase, the balustrade is the complete guarding assembly rather than any one of its parts. Its design may include turned spindles, solid panels, glazing or metalwork between newel posts and beneath the handrail.

Original balustrades are often important period features in Edinburgh townhouses and tenements. Loose joints, damaged components and later alterations may be repairable without removing sound historic material.

When a balustrade is renewed or altered, its height, openings, strength and relationship to the stair should be considered together. A visually light design still needs to provide safe, robust guarding.

Property types

Commonly found in

Tenement Georgian Townhouse Victorian Villa Terraced House Traditional Cottage Georgian Flat Converted Flat Detached House Semi-detached House

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