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Builders of new construction in my area have featured the twisted iron stair balusters in their model homes for a few years now. What are your thoughts about this look? Do you think this trend will be around for a while or will it date the house within a few years?

I do like the updated look of them, however, they will eventually go out of style.

I love them. Like this?

Yep. I do like the look NOW but I'm wondering about the longevity of it...

It would probably depend on the styling of the balusters. Some designs are more trendy, while others are more classic.

I personally love wrought iron as long as its more French in design rather than Mediterranean (sp?) or "Old World."

n the pic supplied by chloenkitty the very decorative hand wrought iron drew my attention to how basic and "builder special" the hand rail and posts were. I think if it goes with the style of the house it would be fine. If it just looks like an add on, the novelty will fade with time.

quote:

Originally posted by Charles D:
n the pic supplied by chloenkitty the very decorative hand wrought iron drew my attention to how basic and "builder special" the hand rail and posts were. I think if it goes with the style of the house it would be fine. If it just looks like an add on, the novelty will fade with time.

I agree, but if painting the hand rails and posts white would it give it a more classic look?

Sunny that's a good question. The style of the posts seems so "Home Depot" to me in comparison with the very custom looking iron work. I'm not sure if paint would do it, but it might neutralize them enough so they fade away.

My big thing with structural changes, is whether they look good without your "stuff". If the house was empty would everything look cohesive and natural? Or would the things that can't be removed be a detriment to the architecture? ie: you love French, does the house look good with a Louis mantle? Mid Century is very "in", should it be in a Prarie style bungelow? Those are the questions I ask when considering something trendy.

Noticed the hand rail and posts, also. I'd paint them same as the other woodwork to make the iron (hopefully) stand out.

WRT the longevity of the spindle's style, these appear too busy to me. If they were simpler and more classic, then I believe they'd stand the test of time.

JMHO.

Very thought-provoking comments, Charles. Good points.

As far as the photo shown, I rather like the wood tone against the iron balusters. If the wood was painted white, I think the black iron would make the whole thing look too stark.
I can also see how the posts and rail need to be updated from the "builder basic" to be a better match with the iron.

Thanks, all, for your help!