A Simple Guide to Staircase Types: Straight Flight, Quarter Landing, or Winder

Not sure what kind of staircase you've got? You're not alone. Stair terminology can sound more complicated than it really is, but once you know the basics, it'll start to make sense.

This short guide will help you spot which type of staircase you have, - whether it runs straight up, turns on a landing, or winds round a corner, - so you can talk about it confidently and find the right style for your space.

Understanding Stair Layouts:

Before you think about colour, materials, or styles, it helps to understand your layout. Staircases are usually described by how they move between floors. Some travel straight up without a break, while others change direction with a landing or a set of angled steps. Once you know which one you've got, it's much easier to plan a handrail that fits perfectly.

Here's a simple guide to the main types you'll come across.

Straight Flight:

This is the simplest and most familiar layout. A straight flight staircase runs directly from one floor to another without turning. Because there's no corners or landings, it's got a clean, open look and is usually the easiest to plan for. It suits continuous handrail systems that run smoothly along the wall or across brackets.

You can see how our recommended systems work with straight flight stairs on the Choose Your Stair Type page. 

Quarter Landing:

A quarter landing staircase includes a small flat platform partway up, where the stairs turn at a right angle. It's a common solution when stairs need to change direction neatly, for example when moving from a hallway into an upper landing. The landing adds a natural pause and helps divide the staircase into two clear sections.

You'll find examples of suitable handrail layouts for this style on the main stair type page.

Half Landing:

A half landing staircase turns 180 degrees halfway up, with a larger platform between the two flights. It's often used in homes with more height or space, and creates a sense of flow and symmetry. The handrail is usually installed in two separate runs, one on each flight, meeting neatly at the landing.

Single Winder:

Instead of a landing, a single winder staircase uses triangular steps that fan around a corner to make a 90-degree turn. It's a clever way to save space while keeping the stairs easy to navigate. The change in angle adds movement and personality, and the handrail can follow the turn for a smooth, continuous look.

Double Winder:

A double winder staircase makes a full 180-degree turn using two sets of triangular steps. It's a compact, elegant layout often chosen for homes where space is limited but a sense of flow is still important. The handrail can usually continue up both turns in one constant line,, creating a seamless finish.

T-Shape:

A T-Shape staircase combines two flights that meet a central landing and branch off in opposite directions, forming a 'T' shape when viewed from above. It's often used in larger homes where there's more space for a grander layout, and it creates a balanced, statement look. The central landing becomes the visual focus, while the handrails mirror each side for symmetry.

For inspiration on how to plan your handrails around a T-Shape layout, visit our Choose Your Stair Type page. 

If Yours Looks Different:

Not every staircase fits neatly into one category. Many homes have layouts that borrow a little from each, or include small variations that don't match the textbook example. If that sounds like yours, you can still put together a perfect match with our build-your-own range, where each part of the handrail system can be selected individually. 

And if you'd rather talk it through, our team is always happy to help you work out exactly what you've got.

Once you've identified your staircase type, head over to the Choose Your Stair Type Page to explore the best handrail options for each. This guide is all about helping you understand the basics so you can make confident, informed decisions. Once you've got your stair type sorted, the rest of the process falls neatly into place. 

Check out our previous blog: Modern Vs Classic Staircases