Wood Stair Balusters: Trends in 2025 (& Beyond!)

As we enter the new year, the world of interior design continues to evolve. One element making a significant comeback in contemporary home decor is the wood stair baluster (also known as a spindle).

Once relegated to traditional staircases and furniture, wood spindles are now finding their way into various design aspects. They’re a versatile choice for modern homes and should certainly be considered for any renovation or new construction project.

A set of wood stair balusters that were custom-made by Arnold Wood Turning.

Here’s a look at the current trends in spindle design and how they can fit into contemporary home decor.

Sleek Designs

Currently, minimalist aesthetics are trending, with homeowners seeking uncluttered spaces. Wood stair balusters are being designed to complement this style. They can feature sleek profiles that don’t overwhelm the space and serve as subtle accents in staircases and railings. This style emphasizes simplicity and allows the natural beauty of the wood grain to shine.

Geometric Shapes

Geometric designs are making a statement in home decor this year. Wood stair balusters with geometric patterns—such as hexagonal or triangular shapes—are gaining popularity. These serve a functional purpose and also act as eye-catching focal points in staircases, balustrades, and even furniture pieces. This can add visual interest to your space while maintaining a contemporary vibe.

Mixed Materials and Textures

Blending materials remains a significant trend, and wood spindles are no exception. Designers are increasingly combining wood with metals, glass, and other materials to create dynamic contrasts.

For instance, pairing wooden balusters with metal railings can create a great visual effect. Additionally, incorporating textured finishes—such as brushed or weathered wood—adds depth to wood spindles.

For a comprehensive guide on pairing wood table bases with tabletops made from other materials, click here.

Bold Colors and Stains

While natural wood finishes will always have a place in home decor, we are also seeing a rise in bold colors and unique stains for wood stair balusters. Deep navy, forest green, and even bright reds are being used to make balusters stand out as statement pieces in the home.

Two large diameter wooden balusters. Both are turned in the middle with square top and bottom. One has a "V" cut on the bottom end.

These colored spindles can act as a bridge between different design elements in a room, tying together various colors and styles while adding personality.

Custom Designs and Personalization

With the rise of personalized home decor, balusters are becoming more popular as well. Homeowners want unique designs that reflect their individual style and preferences, no matter how unique they are.

Whether it’s through custom carvings, specific wood choices, or personalized finishes, tailored wood stair balusters are another way that homeowners can infuse their personality into their spaces. This trend emphasizes the importance of attention to detail, which results in one-of-a-kind features.

Conclusion – Wood Stair Balusters: Trends in 2025 (& Beyond!)

Wood stair balusters are making a significant impact in home design, evolving beyond their traditional roles to become versatile elements. With trends leaning toward minimalist designs, bold colors, and custom options, balusters are proving to be a stylish and functional choice for modern homes.

Whether you’re renovating your staircase, adding custom furniture, or seeking unique accents, embracing these trends can elevate your space and keep your home at the forefront of design in the new year and beyond.

Who We Are

Arnold Wood Turning has over 100 years of experience creating custom wood pieces that are designed specifically for you.

If you have a vision for a custom woodworking project or need custom wood components, please reach out to us for a free, no-obligation estimate. We bring your ideas to life at competitive prices while making life easy!