Some buildings stand out from the crowd for several good reasons. A lot of thought goes into creating the visual identity of a building – it’s a combination of a striking facade and careful arrangement of smaller individual elements inside, both working together to develop a sense of continuity, purpose and aesthetic.
Internal balustrades can be used to contribute to the design, intent and purpose of your project. With the right application, these supporting structures can stand out in the eyes of all those who enter your building as well as help guide them through the space safely and as intended.
What are internal balustrades?
A balustrade is formed from a set of balusters, most commonly seen supporting staircase railings, but can also be used in fencing and other applications. Simply put, these are vertical posts connecting the floor and the railing or other objects above.
Combining both form and function, balustrades could be intricate or simple in style, aligned with the overall design concept of the building. The primary function of a balustrade is safety – it serves as a barrier between lower and higher levels, keeping people and objects from falling off staircases or balconies, for instance. These design elements can be made of wood, stone or a variety of metals, including stainless steel and aluminium as well as other materials.
Internal balustrades are made for indoor environments. Since these are not exposed to the elements, they can be coated, painted and otherwise designed with more freedom than exterior balustrades.
Internal balustrades can be used imaginatively in various applications.
Floor-to-ceiling post balustrades
In addition to being used to connect staircase railings, internal balustrades can fulfil their function in a variety of forms. Australian company Studio Black Interiors put a new spin on the common design by extending the balustrades next to a staircase from floor to ceiling.
This eye-catching concept still offers the protective, functional element of a balustrade, but does so in a novel way. This look could be executed with a number of different materials and finishes, such as stainless steel or a variety of coated metals. A similar approach could help design the visual identity of your main or ancillary stairwell.
Mesh screens as balustrades
This basic balustrade design fabricated by Locker Group uses a reinforced wire screen as a balustrade on the side of the staircase that's exposed to the floor below instead of keeping the posts between the steps and railing or using posts at all.
This design concept can be customised using woven wire as the screen material. Also, aluminium, stainless steel and other metals can offer the support and protection from heights while lending themselves to a visually impressive appearance.
Steel wire balustrade
Balustrades don't have to be strictly vertical elements. Wide-spaced vertical posts with wire run between them add a new dimension to the look while also addressing safety issues.
Netherlands-based Newstairs executed this concept on a balcony, creating an area that feels less confined without sacrificing any of the protection provided by balustrades. Alternatively, you can use stainless steel or aluminium balustrade panels to offer a mix of visibility and security on balconies.
Partner with Locker Group to make the most of internal balustrades
A great concept or design for a balustrade is only effective when you have an experienced and dependable partner to help craft, finish and deliver the necessary elements. Locker Group helps architects, builders and other stakeholders successfully execute their vision for new constructions and renovations with a variety of standard and custom-made fabricated metal parts.
