Custom Engineered Floating Staircase with Frameless Glass Railings and Integrated LED Lighting

Surf City , NJ 08008

This custom floating staircase in New Jersey was one of the most challenging and rewarding projects we have ever undertaken. Designed, engineered, fabricated, and installed entirely in-house, this staircase was created to serve as both a structural element and an architectural centerpiece for the home.

Unlike conventional floating stair systems, this project required the development of a concealed structural support system hidden entirely within the wall. To achieve the clean, cantilevered appearance desired by the homeowner and design team, we engineered a custom slotted steel stud framework that was integrated into the home’s structure during construction.

The slotted system allowed each tread elevation to be precisely adjusted and aligned during installation. Once the final rise and run of every tread was established, the assembly was secured using 1/2″ Grade 8 bolts, nuts, and washers before being permanently welded into place. This process ensured exceptional strength, rigidity, and long-term structural stability.

The stair structure itself was fabricated using 3″ x 8″ steel cantilevered treads extending from the concealed support wall. Each steel tread was then wrapped with custom-built white oak stair treads, creating a warm and sophisticated appearance while concealing the structural steel beneath.

To further enhance the design, a custom LED lighting system was integrated into every tread. A concealed channel was milled into the underside of each white oak tread to accommodate LED strip lighting. The lighting was carefully angled during installation to illuminate the tread below, creating a dramatic floating effect while improving visibility and safety.

The railing system features custom glass panels mounted using threaded stainless steel buttons. Each connection point required precise drilling and tapping directly into the structural steel treads to ensure proper alignment and long-term performance. The result is a clean, minimalist glass railing system that preserves sightlines while complementing the floating appearance of the staircase.

From structural engineering and fabrication to finish carpentry and glass installation, every aspect of this project required meticulous planning and execution. The finished staircase serves as a striking architectural focal point while demonstrating the level of custom fabrication and problem-solving that American Custom Fabricators brings to complex projects.