A staircase serves not only a functional purpose in your home but also an aesthetic one. When building a staircase, the design and style of railings, balusters, newel posts, and other components form a strong visual impact. If you want to renovate your interior spaces, the stairway system can bring the entire new design together.

    Such was the case for Joe Hanna of Auburn, Alabama. His family decided to remodel their 1990s home to create a more open floor plan.

    The metal panel staircase and railing system they chose became the centerpiece that unified all the other interior updates.

    “The horizontal metal panel system was a game-changer,” said Hanna. “This stairway and the accompanying railing system made it all happen. It’s the most impactful part of our entire interior renovations project.”

    Here’s how the Hanna family created a linear metal panel system for their stairwell that became the focal point in their dream home.


    The Beginning: Opening Up the Floor Plan

    The Hannas moved into their home in 1999. For 20 years, they lived in the house as it was originally built, only making minor improvements periodically. In 2019, they felt ready to make major changes to transform the interior spaces.

    “We had several contractors working on various things, such as repainting, removing textured ‘popcorn’ ceilings, and adding new lighting,” Hanna said. “These all involved our main living spaces. Our goal was to create a more open floor plan with an enhanced appeal.”

    After meeting with an interior designer, the Hannas sought help from Will Harrelson. Working through Russell Building Supply, Harrelson recommended replacing the kitchen drywall and on both sides of the stairwell with the Linear Metal Panel System from L.J. Smith® Stair System.

    “We wanted to give the Hannas the open feeling they desired,” says Harrelson, owner of Harrelson Homes. “Installing the unique metal panel railing system, replacing some hardwood floors, and installing new French doors helped achieve that goal. We also provided a new main entry, mantel, TV location, and stained concrete on the back patio. Together, it created a stunning transformation.”

    “Given our home’s unique design, we needed an innovative solution for the renovation,” Hanna explains. “Will and the L.J. Smith team came up with exactly what we needed. We’re really impressed with how Harrelson Homes handled the challenging situation and gave us stunning results.”


    Stairwell With a Linear Metal
    Image Credit: Adobe Stock

    Transforming the Stairwell With a Linear Metal Panel System

    An innovative stair system was the key to creating the open, contemporary look the Hannas wanted. The contractor recommended a unique metal and wood panel railing design to completely transform the stairwell.

    The Hannas loved the horizontal metal railing accented by wood panels. According to Harrelson, this stair system was the best choice to transform the space. The Linear Metal Panel System has horizontal metal panels instead of traditional vertical balusters. The metal panels come in a black finish standard, but you can choose powder-coated colors or Pantone® paint colors to match your home’s decor. The system also includes components like spacer newels, panel posts, treads, and handrails for a complete stair renovation.

    The metal panels come pre-assembled, making installation easy — they install without requiring sanding, gluing, or drilling baluster holes.  The system simply screws into place without needing glue or drilling baluster holes. Wood handrail options create a modern, refined look for the stairwell.

    “Guests are amazed by the new ‘welded look’ of the stairs and railing,” Hanna says. “They think it has transformed the main living space. I agree — the updated stairs and staircase draw immediate attention.”


    Enjoying a Newly-Reformed Home

    With the renovation done, the Hannas are enjoying their opened-up spaces. The stairway system is the focal point, impressing everyone who visits the remodeled home.

    “The railing system opens the sightlines of the main living space, making the other renovations more visible from anywhere in the home,” Hanna explains. Beyond impressing guests, the stairway renovation had a practical impact.

    “This part of the renovation allowed the other renovated areas to be more prominently displayed,” Hanna says. “The railing system opens the sightlines, making the other updates more noticeable.”

    For contractor Will Harrelson, fulfilling homeowners’ visions is his company’s purpose.

    “Home means more than the materials used to build a house,” Harrelson says. “It’s where families create memories. That principle inspires us to provide an amazing customer experience.”

    Harrelson is also impressed with the stair system’s quality and versatility. “The Linear Metal Panel System makes a strong impression. L.J. Smith products are always excellent. For the Hanna home, we’re thrilled to provide the enhancements they wanted.”


    So, Is a Staircase Renovation Worthwhile?

    If you’re remodeling your interior, focusing on the stairs can have a major impact. The stairway serves as a focal point that opens up surrounding areas. An updated system like linear metal panels can transform the aesthetic from sloppy to sleek.

    However, renovating stairs is complex. Before proceeding, you should consider your budget, timeline, preferences, and feasibility. We recommend consulting experienced remodelers to determine options. Stair components need precision measurements, and when it comes to installation, opt for hiring a professional.

    Despite the complexity, a stair renovation provides enjoyment and value. It can modernize a dated interior. The “wow factor” impresses visitors immediately, and for a full-style revamp, new stairs can help unite the design.


    FAQs About Staircase Renovations

    What are the initial planning steps for a new staircase?

    Before starting work, define your appearance, function, and budget goals. Consult designers and remodelers on layout options and get professional measurements for accurate quotes.


    How long does it take to renovate a staircase?

    The timeline varies based on scope. Replacing railings may take one or two days while refinishing treads and risers can add several days. A full teardown and rebuild with new stringers can take weeks.


    What are popular styles today?

    Clean, contemporary looks are in demand — glass panels, open risers, floating treads, cables, and horizontal panels. However, classic wood balusters still work for many homes.


    How disruptive is the stairwell work?

    You should expect stairs to be completely unusable during the renovation, so be sure to make arrangements to access floors another way. You should also expect a lot of dust, noise, and debris, so try to contain the work area and protect your belongings as best you can. Schedule renovations when there are few people home.


    What indicates that stairs need repairs?

    Look for loose rails or balusters, uneven treads, excessive squeaking, and sagging. Have an inspector check if stringers are cracked or failing, and be sure to make fixes before conditions worsen. For more information on easy fixes, check out our guide on how to fix squeaky stairs.


    Editorial Contributors
    avatar for Mitchell Layton

    Mitchell Layton

    Mitchell Layton is a former professional mover who currently lives in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Mitchell spent years packing and moving for REAL Rock N Roll Movers, a commercial and residential moving company based in Los Angeles that’s primarily staffed with up-and-coming musicians. That gave him plenty of experience navigating box trucks up and down the winding streets of LA. In addition to moving hundreds of happy customers into new homes and apartments all across Southern California, Mitchell has also performed corporate moves on company lots for Nickelodeon, Warner Bros, Universal Studios, Paramount, and more. After pouring blood, sweat, and tears into his profession, Mitchell has all the helpful tips you need for your next move.

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    Lori Zaino

    Lori Zaino is a freelance writer and editor based in Madrid, Spain. With nearly two decades of editorial experience, she’s written and edited for publications like Forbes, CNN, Insider, NBC, Newsweek, The Points Guy, The Infatuation, and many others. Having just completed her first home renovation, she’s more interested in home improvements than ever, dedicated to bringing you fresh and accurate content to help you update your living spaces.

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