What is a volute?

A volute is a decorative architectural element that you may have seen before on staircase handrails. These curved or spiral components are commonly used on traditional wooden handrails to create a sense of timeless elegance, but they can also have practical benefits too.

Keep reading to learn more about what volutes are, the common types of handrail volutes, and why you should consider incorporating this element into your bespoke wooden handrail design.

What is a volute?

In a more general sense, ‘volute’ refers to any spiral or scroll-shaped form. The inspiration for this form can be found in nature – specifically in marine molluscs. In fact, there’s a taxonomic family of sea snails called Volutidae, and its members are commonly referred to as volutes.

In architecture, the first examples of volute shapes are from Ancient Greece. Drawing inspiration from nature, these Classical architects adorned the tops of Ionic and Corinthian columns with volute shapes. The spiral shape of a volute was thought to symbolise growth, evolution and beauty.

To this day, architects, designers and artists still use volutes to refer back to this timeless artistic tradition, which is why the use of volutes can evoke a sense of timelessness and elegance. Many agree that volutes never go out of style, so incorporating them into your staircase handrail design could be a wise investment into the longevity of the structure. 

What is a volute handrail?

Volutes can be used at the end of handrails to create a smoother and more flowing transition compared to a square-shaped, angular newel post. A handrail with a volute is also commonly called a monkey tail handrail due to its distinctive shape.

Whilst a square-shaped newel post may be preferred for some staircase types, such as straight staircases and some modern-style staircases, volutes work especially well with spiral and curved handrails, helping to elongate their form and smoothly transition to the end of the structure. If a straight, angular newel post was used instead in this context, it could look a bit jarring next to the flowing style of the rest of the handrail.

Volutes are commonly associated with wooden handrails because of their traditional style and the fact that it’s easier to hand-carve wooden materials into these spiral or ornate shapes. However, with the development of more advanced technologies, such as CNC machining, metal handrails could also be precisely carved into volute shapes. 

Benefits of using a volute as one of your staircase components

If you or a client is designing a new staircase, it’s important to consider all types of components to decide which are the best for your project. Here are the main reasons why you may want to include volutes or monkey tail handrails in your bespoke handrail design:

1. Visual appeal

Volutes have been used in architecture for many centuries, so it’s clear that they remain an extremely popular style. If you love traditional, timeless designs, a volute or monkey tail handrail could add that touch of extra sophistication you’re looking for.

2. Ergonomics and safety

Some people find volutes more comfortable and easier to grip compared to angular styles, which could improve their safety when ascending and descending. Plus, monkey tail handrails add strength to the structure as there is usually a newel post or a collection of spindles underneath them, and this helps to reduce movement at the start of the staircase.

3. Saving space

Using curves rather than sharp angles can save space and allow for a tighter turn if needed. If you’re short on space, curved or totally bespoke staircases may be needed to make the most of the space you’re working with.

Types of handrail volutes

Not all volute handrails or monkey tail handrails are the same. Depending on your style preferences, you can customise your volute to blend in harmoniously with the rest of your interior design – no matter whether you have a traditional or modern style. Volutes are truly timeless!

Scroll volute

Looking for a more traditional design? Opt for an ornate, scroll-style volute. Depending on how elaborate you want your design to be, you could add curved embellishments to suggest leaves, vines, waves and more. Take inspiration from Classical architecture – especially Roman and Greek Corinthian columns!

If you’re going for a more traditional look, we would recommend using premium hardwoods for your handrail. These can be a bit pricier, but they’re much more durable and can be hand-carved into incredibly detailed and ornate designs if this is your preference.

Curved volute

On the other hand, if you prefer a modern, minimalist look, you can forgo the decorative scrollwork and stick to a simple curved volute. These simple monkey tail handrails can be made from wood or metal, but we would recommend wooden materials – particularly for residential properties – as wooden handrails are much more comfortable to grip.

Custom volute

Whether you want a simple or ornate monkey tail handrail – or anything in between – we can custom-make the perfect volute to complement your interior design. Pre-made handrails may not be able to capture your exact vision for the space, especially if you’re working with non-standard dimensions. Get in touch with Handrail Creations to discuss your bespoke handrail volute requirements.

How do I design a handrail volute?

We’ll walk you through the entire process of designing, manufacturing and installing your handrail, but to give you a quick overview of bespoke handrail design, here are the main factors that need to be considered when designing volutes:

• Dimensions. Have you precisely measured the space you’re working with to ensure your handrail components fit properly? For example, have you considered the size of your bottom two or three treads to make sure there is enough space for the curve (looking at the staircase in plan view)?
• Style. Does your handrail design work well with the rest of the space?
• Building regulations. Does your handrail volute design work with UK building regulations? This is especially important if you’re designing a staircase for a public or commercial building, as you may have to adhere to stricter standards.
• Material. Should you choose wooden vs metal handrails? Consider things like hygiene, style, cost, maintenance requirements and ergonomics when making your decision. 
• Budget. Naturally, it’s important that your proposed design fits within your budget. We can advise you on costs and how to get the handrail you want at a price that works for you. 

Volute handrail installation

Once your volute handrail or monkey tail handrail design is finalised, we can begin the manufacturing process and then install the completed handrail on your site. With our end-to-end bespoke handrail service, we handle the entire process from initial designs to full installation to ensure consistency and efficient communication throughout. 

All components – including volutes at the start and/or end of the handrail – are manufactured according to exact measurements and specifications, allowing us to assemble and install the whole structure on-site. Depending on your design and requirements, volutes can be assembled separately and then integrated on-site, or they can be carved directly onto the handrail. Thanks to our precision CNC machining process, all separate components are measured with total accuracy to ensure they will integrate seamlessly during on-site installation, which will minimise time and material wastage.

Our on-site CSCS-qualified craftsmen take pride in the finished product and will ensure that you’re 100% satisfied with the installation. In addition to having extensive experience and expertise, we’re accustomed to working under pressure as we are often one of the final trades onsite, which means we can work to the tightest of deadlines without compromising on quality and customer satisfaction. 

Ready to design your ideal volute handrail? Get in touch with Handrail Creations – the bespoke handrail experts. We manufacture bespoke wooden handrails to suit both residential and commercial projects, and use state-of-the-art 3D surveys, digital design software, and precision CNC machining to create traditional and contemporary handrail styles. Enquire now or discover our blog for more expert staircase and handrail advice.