Every staircase needs newel posts to provide structural support and visual appeal. There are several different styles of newel posts to choose from. Learn more about the four basic types you find in most homes and businesses.

Box Newel

Homeowners love box newel posts for their clean, timeless appearance. These square-shaped posts are versatile and work beautifully in both traditional and modern homes. You can dress them up with decorative trim and molding for a more elaborate look, or keep them simple with few details for a minimalist vibe. One great way to decorate box newel posts is to get creative with the finishes, such as paint, stain, or natural wood.

Turned Newel

To bring a classic elegance to any staircase, consider turned newel posts. Their rounded, decorative shapes immediately catch the eye, and your guests will recognize this traditional design. The decorative elements can range from subtle curves to elaborate designs, allowing you to choose the level of detail that matches your home’s character.

Craftsman Style

Craftsman-style newel posts embrace a simple design philosophy. These posts are clean, yet beautiful, and offer a slightly rustic appeal to homeowners who appreciate subtle details. Mission-style and Arts and Crafts–style home interiors pair perfectly with Craftsman newels, since they create a cohesive look throughout your home. A common way to showcase these posts is with natural wood grain and earth-tone finishes that bring the outdoors inside.

Modern or Contemporary Newels

Today’s design trends lean toward modern and contemporary newel posts with sleek, minimalist appearances. Modern newel posts feature geometric shapes and mixed materials such as metal, wood, and glass. Their streamlined appearance works especially well in homes with staircases involving floating steps or cable railing systems.

Finding Your Perfect Style

With the right newel post style, you can turn your staircase from a simple functional element into a design feature that reflects your personal taste and complements your home’s architecture. When incorporating any of these designs, continue your interior style to the outside with outdoor newel posts.

Now you know the four different styles of newel posts and how each style could contribute to the aesthetic appeal of your living space. To find the perfect newel posts, browse Mr. Spindle’s extensive collection of high-quality options, and find the ideal match for your home’s design today.