I disagree ..I think it's beautiful

How does that staircase pass code with a non continuous rail?

Totally disagree - adds a degree of elegance..

The reason they need the extra support with the middle post is because there is more stairs and risers than normal - count how many is pictured, then count how many in a normal domestic situation.

The need for this post is more of a design feature as a "standard" wood railing if installed with the correct hardware would pass load bearing codes without the railing. We have found that most of our customers prefer no post to show more iron. The only issue we see is the the railing is not continuous and would fail inspection in CA building code but I doubt this style of staircase is located in CA.

The code in question:
International Residential Code
R311.7.8.2 Continuity.
Handrails for stairways shall be continuous for the full length of the flight, from a point directly above the top riser of the flight to a point directly above the lowest riser of the flight. Handrail ends shall be returned or shall terminate in newel posts or safety terminals. Handrails adjacent to a wall shall have a space of not less than 11/2 inch (38 mm) between the wall and the handrails.
Exceptions:
1. Handrails shall be permitted to be interrupted by a newel post at the turn.
2. The use of a volute, turnout, starting easing or starting newel shall be allowed
over the lowest tread.

http://publicecodes.cyberregs.com/icod/irc/2012/icod_irc_2012_3_sec011.htm?bu2=undefined

There is no exception for "more stairs and risers than normal"

I would imagine that this railing was built before the latest code restrictions because the spindles do not meet the 4" spacing either. (no, it does not need to be fixed)
A standard stair is 14 treads. This is only 15 to the turn which is not a big enough difference to make a structural issue.

Why would a reader take the time to write a disparaging comment? I love the stairs; they're simultaneously quirky and elegant. Refreshingly unique...

goodness gracious some of you are rather testy! This is a free country with every right as an artist to critique, compliment or add to .afterall..we are all trying to decorate and figure out the positives and negatives..get a grip..

Love these stairs!

What color black is used? I want to do the same thing and change up my boring oak stairs.
Hopefully someone will answer me! :o)

Johender, I do not know what color "black" was used here but it may be a burnt cherry stain. My company custom makes all of our stains to order. If you are in the Southern California area we would be happy to quote the refinish of your staircase to this color.
www.pikestaircompany.com

These are my stairs I used Benjamin moore aura in black no cherry stain here that's what it was

They look beautiful. I like the bullnose wrapped around the side of the stairway. It looks lovely with the white paint and the black banister.

Was the banister painted or stained?

It was originally stained and I had it painted black

What is the finish on the black paint? My painter discouraged me from a matte black because it would show scuff marks. I don’t want gloss.

Can you paint the stairs or does it need to be a stain ? I’m interested in the black or possible white on the stairs

Marissa,

Most woods can be either stained or painted. Typically one wouldn't paint an agressive grained wood such as an Oak but I is done. For the actual steps/treads a stain would be the better option with a high traffic roll on polyurethane clear.