Outside of its mystical interpretation, the inverted baluster also embodies ideas of duality and harmony. A staircase naturally represents transition — the movement between above and below. Introducing a single element of imbalance, such as the reversed spindle, subtly reinforces this concept of balance within contrast. The deliberate imperfection becomes a visual reminder of equilibrium — between the physical and spiritual, the perfect and the flawed.
A Tradition Found in Historic Homes
“One of these things is not like the other,” he captioned — and the internet took notice.
Thousands of comments poured in. Some suggested it was intentional, rooted in tradition:
“It’s common in old homes,” one commenter wrote. “The carpenter believed only God is perfect, so one spindle was flipped to show humility.”
Another echoed the sentiment:
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