A balustrade is a railing system made up of a row of short posts (called balusters) topped by a handrail. You've probably seen balustrades on staircases, balconies, and porches. They keep people from falling off edges while also looking decorative.

The short posts, or balusters, are often shaped like miniature columns or turned in interesting patterns on a lathe. They stand close together, supporting the handrail you hold when walking up stairs. Classic buildings often feature elegant stone balustrades along their grand staircases or around their balconies.

Architects and builders have been using balustrades for thousands of years: you can see them in ancient Greek temples, Renaissance palaces, and modern homes. They combine safety with beauty, turning a simple protective barrier into an architectural feature.

When you visit a historic building or mansion and admire the ornate railing along a staircase, you're looking at a balustrade. The next time you hold a stair railing, notice those vertical posts beneath your hand. That's the balustrade doing its job.