Made to measure stairs allow you to make that statement. They are often seen immediately as you enter a property and therefore form a huge part of that initial impression. It not just the measurement you can choose, but a host of other factors, such as, style, materials and finish to really enhance the interior design.
Manipulation of light through a custom stair can offer a huge creative advantage and scope for enhancing the interior design. The way sunlight or electric lighting plays through balusters or treads offers creativity and visual impact. Similarly under or over tread lighting, or lighting to strings can really create a wow factor to the stair and in fact the greater space around it.
Made to measure stairs can be sympathetic with the overall style of the home, be it classic or modern. Victorian, Georgian, Edwardian any style can be designed and replicated. Alternatively they can create a juxtaposition, with daring design conflicting, but complimenting the surroundings.
Timber is a classic and versatile choice for staircases. From rich, natural oak to stained or painted finishes, the appearance of wood can be tailored to match any style. From rustic farmhouse to sleek contemporary. Visible, thick timber beams can create a bold architectural feature, while lighter finishes can brighten up compact areas.
Your available space often influences the layout of your staircase. A simple straight flight might be ideal for narrow areas, while more spacious homes can accommodate a single or double wind, or even a dramatic spiral. For compact or loft spaces, a steep paddle staircase may be the best option. On the other hand, larger properties might benefit from a show-stopping bifurcated staircase, splitting elegantly into two landings.
Don’t overlook the importance of handrails, they are of course functional, but at the same time can be elegant and decorative. Choose from ornate or minimalist styles with twisted or straight lines, clean square lines or rounded edges, in timber, glass, or metal. A beautifully crafted handrail can enhance the overall look of your staircase and become a key design feature in its own right.
We offer all kinds of made to measure stairs for sale and will happily guide you through all the options.
There are several factors to consider to ensure you have thought about all you need to, in creating a new staircase, or in remodelling the existing to generate the desired effect.
Space and Safety
The key factor you will need to consider is what kind of staircase can fit into the space you have available. Options are:
a) a straight flight,
b) U-shaped, a second flight returning in the opposite direction, often formed by incorporating two kite winders.
c) L-shaped, a second flight turning a right angle corner and heading off that direction, often formed by adding a kite winder or half landing.
d) Spiral. Particularly useful if space is short or a quirky effect is desired.
e) Paddle staircase, where the treads are say half width alternating to allow creation of a very short horizontal footprint, say for an attic stair.
f) Bifurcated, a stair that splits to go in two directions. Especially useful in stating opulence and availability of lots of space.
It’s very important that what ever is chosen, the functionality of the staircase is considered, the length of the treads, the height of the risers and the head height, both to meet building regulations but also to make it a comfortable stair to use.
Style and material
A staircase makes such a statement. Typically it is seen early when you enter a house and therefore forms a big part of the initial impression.
The style itself can be classic or modern. It can adopt the features of a certain period, for example Victorian, Georgian or Edwardian, which tended to have a particular fashion.
The materials chosen affect the style, but also the practicalities. All manner of combinations are at your disposal when choosing the appearance of your new stair.
Timber of various types, Oak, Pine, Mahogony, Walnut, etc can be used. All of which can remain exposed, be stained or be painted in a style of your choosing.
Steel (painted, blackened or stainless), maybe for balusters, hand-rail or a spine for floating step support, a cantilever, or to support very slender, individual treads.
Glass could be used for balustrades or even treads,
Maybe even concrete or stone, marble, granite treads.
Stunning visual impact within the building can be created using a staircase. The colours and materials used, the lighting of the stairs, which could be incorporated into the treads and risers, or within the balustrade or soffit. Clever lighting that cascades through piece can transform the entire space if done correctly.
Under-stair Space
The space underneath a staircase can be very useful. Clever design can use it well if space is of a premium. It can be storage in various ways, Cupboards, shelves, pull-out cupboard space, shoe drawer in the lowest nook, a small toilet and washbasin can be made to work adding a downstairs loo where there may not otherwise be space, etc.