CNC designs By Antoh Decor Enterprises 3 min read
Key points
- CNC railings are steel sheets laser-cut into patterns, framed and welded in place of balusters.
- Leaf, floral, geometric and Greek key patterns are the most popular; custom designs are possible.
- 16 gauge (about 1.5 mm) suits most indoor railings; 14 gauge (about 1.9 mm) is stiffer for exposed balconies.
- Antoh Decor cuts custom sizes in Nairobi and sells ready designs in 2×8, 2×4 and 4×8 ft panels.
A CNC laser-cut railing replaces rows of balusters with a single patterned steel panel. The result is modern, detailed and surprisingly quick to install, which is why CNC balconies and staircases have become so popular in new homes and apartments across Nairobi.
Design ideas that work
- Leaf and branch patterns: soft and natural; they suit homes with gardens and rooftop terraces.
- Geometric and star patterns: sharp and modern; they match grey, black and gold colour schemes.
- Greek key: a classic border that works as a band under the handrail.
- Floral and damask: rich and decorative; good for feature staircases.
- Your own design: a family initial, a logo for a business or a pattern from your tiles. See how to order a custom CNC design.
16 gauge or 14 gauge?
| Gauge | Approx. thickness | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 16 | about 1.5 mm | Indoor staircases, sheltered balconies, detailed patterns |
| 14 | about 1.9 mm | Exposed balconies, rooftops, wider panels |
Thicker steel flexes less and feels more solid when leaned on. Whatever the gauge, the panel should sit in a strong frame of tube or flat bar; the frame and posts carry the load, the panel provides the infill.
Panel sizes
Ready designs come in 2 × 8 ft panels (ideal for balcony runs), 2 × 4 ft panels (easy for stair flights) and full 4 × 8 ft sheets. We can also cut to the exact size of each opening.
Installation tips
- Measure every opening separately; balcony openings are rarely identical.
- Build the frame first, then weld the panel in with short stitches to avoid distortion.
- On stairs, cut panels to the rake (angle) of the stair or use stepped rectangular panels.
- Finish with a plain handrail on top.
- Powder coat for the best finish. Two-tone finishes (for example grey panel, gold backing) look striking.
Before and after: a rooftop balcony
One of our customers had a plain rooftop balcony with a low wall and simple bars. Replacing the bars with leaf-pattern CNC panels in a dark finish gave it a modern architectural look, more privacy from the street, and a railing that is easy to keep clean. The structure stayed the same; only the infill changed. That is why CNC is such a popular upgrade for existing homes, not only new builds.
CNC panels vs traditional balusters
| CNC panel | Balusters with decorations | |
|---|---|---|
| Look | Modern, graphic | Classic, detailed |
| Privacy | Higher (depends on the pattern) | Lower |
| Fabrication time | Fast: weld one panel per bay | Slower: many bars and parts |
| Cleaning | Flat surface, easy to wipe | Many parts to dust |
| Custom designs | Any pattern, logo or name | Limited to available parts |
Safety points
- Choose patterns without big horizontal gaps that children could use as footholds.
- Keep openings in the pattern small enough that a child’s head cannot pass through.
- Make sure posts and the top rail are strong; the panel is infill, not structure.
- Check that cut edges are smooth after finishing, especially on indoor stairs where hands touch the panel.
See before-and-after photos on the CNC balcony and staircase railings page, or read about our CNC cutting service.
Products & services in this guide
CNC Laser-Cut Designs & Panels
CNC Laser-Cut Balcony & Staircase Railings
Make your staircases and balconies stand out with custom CNC laser-cut designs — modern patterns, precision cutting, durable steel and…
16 gauge14 gaugeCustom sizes & patterns
Price on request · wholesale & retail
Cutting, Bending and Rolling Services
CNC Designs & CNC Laser Cutting Services
Make your staircases and balconies stand out with custom CNC laser-cut designs: modern and elegant patterns, precision cutting, durable high-quality…
View details about CNC Designs & CNC Laser Cutting Services
CNC Laser-Cut Designs & Panels
CNC Laser-Cut Panels 2 ft × 8 ft (Designs 301–305)
Long 2 × 8 ft CNC panels in designs 301 to 305 — herringbone, fan, Greek key, wave and medallion patterns — ideal for balcony railings and…
Design 301Design 302Design 303
Price on request · wholesale & retail
Frequently asked questions
Are CNC railings safe for balconies?
Yes, when the panel is welded into a strong frame and posts sized for the job. The frame carries the load; the panel is infill. Use 14 gauge on exposed balconies.
What gauge is best for a CNC staircase railing?
16 gauge (about 1.5 mm) suits most indoor staircases; choose 14 gauge (about 1.9 mm) for a stiffer feel.
Can I get a custom CNC railing design?
Yes. Bring your design or a photo and we cut it to your sizes in Nairobi.
Do CNC railings rust?
Mild steel will rust if left bare. Powder coating or a good primer and paint protects it.
