Learn more

Karibu - Exterior

All Projects

■ Introduction

Commissioned following the interior staircase, this external stair features perforated steel treads and landing decking, all powder coated in a rich anodic bronze for a durable, weather-resistant finish. Vertical spindles and a flat bar handrail provide clean, minimalist lines, while the warm bronze coating adds a refined, contemporary accent that complements the bridge walkway and surrounding architecture.

■ base style

Specs
Treads

6mm Perforated Steel

Risers

6mm Mild Steel Riser

Balustrade

16mm Dia Steel Spindle

Powder Coat Colour

Anodic Bronze

Landings

Standard Perforated Decking Landing

Hand Rail

Flat Bar Handrail

Team
Architect
Installer

■ The Challenge

The external staircase, connected to a bridge walkway, needed to feel considered rather than a fire escape, integrate seamlessly with coping stone, and echo the bridge’s perforated decking - all within tight technical constraints, including galvanised treads with drainage holes and a balustrade with no visible bolts.

■ The Solution

A bespoke peg structure allowed the balustrade to be installed cleanly, while perforated decking mirrored the bridge design. Galvanised treads were engineered for drainage and simple assembly, resulting in a durable, elegant staircase that complements the home and continues the refined design language established inside.

■ Words from the Client

  • What are the regulations for the space between treads on open risers?

    Legally, the gap between treads must not exceed 100mm. And the good news is that any of our styles can have open treads!

  • How does the stair fit to the floor?

    All our stringers feature a precision engineered foot plate for a secure connection. We recommend either fixing the staircase directly to the structural slab, or shuttering out a space where the staircase will connect and installing or pouring a concrete pad for it to sit on. The foot plate is designed with countersunk holes for heavy duty concrete screws, along with through-holes for chemical anchors where required. This dual fixing approach ensures a secure, rigid connection to the floor slab.

  • What style staircase can have open treads?

    All of our styles can feature open treads, creating a visually light and elegant look. Open risers work best when there’s an open space or architectural feature behind, allowing light to flow and enhancing the sense of space. If there’s just a wall behind, the effect can feel heavy or dark — in this case, a closed tread design might be better and could also provide the opportunity for clever under-stair storage.

  • How are the spindles seamlessly attached to the Carbon Stringer?

    We weld studs directly to the tread plate. The base of each spindle is then carefully drilled and tapped, allowing it to secure cleanly onto the stud through discreet through holes in the plate. The result is a seamless, minimalist finish.

  • What tread thickness options are available?

    Tread thickness varies depending on the staircase design: Closed, Zig-Zag, or Sawtooth Stringers – Standard tread thickness is 32mm. However, if you prefer a flush finish with rebated tread tabs, we can provide a 40mm option. Central Spine Staircases – Our oak treads for this design have a substantial 112mm thickness, offering a bold and striking look. If you have specific design preferences, our team can discuss custom options to achieve the perfect aesthetic and structural balance.

■ Related Project