The Advantages of Open Railing & Open-Concept Basement Stairs

Basements are no longer dark, closed-off storage areas. Today, homeowners want them bright, welcoming, and seamlessly connected to the rest of the home. One of the most effective ways to achieve this transformation is by choosing open railing and an open-concept staircase.

At Bilger Contracting, we specialize in custom stair and railing solutions that elevate both style and function. Here’s why open railing and open-concept basement stairs have become a top choice in modern home design—and why they may be the perfect upgrade for your home.

They Instantly Make Your Basement Feel Bigger

Traditional closed-in basement staircases can make the entry to the lower level feel tight and confined.

Open railing changes everything.

By eliminating heavy walls and bulky barriers, open-concept stairs:

• Allow light to travel between levels

• Create a smooth visual transition

• Make the basement feel like an extension of your main floor

• Bring openness to what is typically the darkest area of the home

Even small basements benefit dramatically. What once felt tight can suddenly feel spacious and inviting.

Better Natural Light Flow

Basements often struggle with limited natural light. Open railing—especially when paired with modern metal balusters or minimalist wood designs—allows existing light to flow freely.

This creates:

• A brighter stairwell

• A more welcoming descent

• A basement that doesn’t feel like a basement

If you’ve added windows, a walkout, or improved lighting downstairs, open railing ensures those upgrades shine as much as possible.

A Modern, Updated Look

Few upgrades modernize a home as quickly as an open stair design.

Open railing and open-concept basement stairs pair beautifully with:

• Modern farmhouse

• Transitional

• Contemporary

• Rustic industrial

• Scandinavian-inspired interiors

Whether you choose stained wood, sleek black metal, cable railing, or a custom mixed-material design, the staircase becomes a feature rather than an afterthought.

Improves Safety Without Sacrificing Style

Many homeowners worry that “open” means “less safe.”

In reality, professionally built open railings exceed safety standards while maintaining clean lines and visibility.

Benefits include:

• Clear sightlines—ideal for families with children

• Sturdy custom handrails

• Balusters spaced safely and securely

• Code-compliant construction from top to bottom

Open does not mean unprotected—just beautifully streamlined.

Boosts Home Value and Appeal

Stairs are one of the first architectural features buyers notice.

An updated open-concept staircase signals that the home is modern, well-maintained, and thoughtfully designed.

This upgrade often adds value by:

• Making the basement feel fully finished and livable

• Enhancing the visual impact of the home’s entry points

• Bringing the overall interior design up to current standards

Buyers associate open railing with high-end new construction—and that perception can help your home stand out.

Perfect for Customization

At Bilger Contracting, every staircase is an opportunity for craftsmanship.

Open railing allows for a wide range of custom options:

• Painted or stained wood handrails

• Modern black or metal balusters

• Cable railing systems

• Wood treads that match your flooring

• Decorative newel posts

• Minimalist railing for a clean, contemporary look

Your staircase can be as subtle—or as stunning—as you want it to be.

Whether you're finishing a basement, opening up an existing stairwell, or updating the look of your home, open railing and open-concept stairs offer unmatched benefits in style, comfort, and functionality.

At Bilger Contracting, our team provides:

• Expert craftsmanship

• Custom design options

• Code-compliant construction

• Professional installation

• A seamless customer experience