• There are a variety of hand rail styles to match all kinds of home decor.stairs image by Dmitry Nikolaev from Fotolia.com
  
  A stairway handrail is more than just a tool to help you get down the stairs, although it does serve that purpose well. A stair rail is also a decorative element that can add a distinct look to your home. Choose a railing that matches the décor of your home while taking into account the safety needs you have for your staircase, such as children or the elderly who will need something sturdy.
  
  

Metal Tree Railing

• If you are looking for an incredibly innovative idea for your stair handrail, consider a metal tree railing. A metal tree railing is constructed from wrought iron, and is styled to look like a long tree branch or vine. The tree trunk begins on the first stair, and curves up the stairwell with the topmost branches forming the handrail. The branch attaches to the wall at the top of the stairs and spreads slightly along the wall. A different type of metal tree railing consists of only the handrail, which looks like just one vine traveling up the staircase. This is a very distinct idea that will garner one compliment after another.
  
  

Piping

• Another very modern and different type of handrail is one made out of piping. Copper or steel piping can be installed in place of a traditional handrail. A pipe stair rail can be suspended directly from the wall or set atop a wooden railing for a modern meets traditional twist.
  
  

Wood and Glass

• Another handrail idea that combines two types of materials is to use a glass railing. A glass railing is made of a crystal clear glass panel that either forms a solid sheet of glass beneath the railing, or is separated into glass slats. Top the glass railing with a cedar or aluminum handrail for a very modern and simplistic look. However, keep in mind that glass tends to fingerprint easily, so if you live in a home with children or pets, this may not be the choice for you unless you have time to clean it consistently.
  
  

Stainless Steel

• A stainless steel handrail is very industrial type of railing that can be used with almost any type of railing. A stainless steel handrail over a steel fence-like railing looks very modern and innovative, while a stainless steel handrail over a dark wood railing looks both classic and sophisticated.