We are a second-generation family-owned business started in 1969. Like most stair companies, Designed Stairs was initially focused on installing stairs, and parts were purchased from others. … [Full story]
We often say curb appeal is the first thing a prospective home buyer sees. Real Estate professionals say a buyer makes up their mind in the first 3 minutes of walking through your front door. Stairs in the entry can make the difference. … [Full story]
Let's take a look at the use of stone treads overlaying a wooden stair structure. Of all available building materials, nothing presents a timeless feel more than a stone surface. … [Full story]
Sometimes your design calls for an elegant curved stair, but the budget falls short. Here are some … [Full story]
Designing a staircase to be freestanding is a great way to gain useable floor space in your design. … [Full story]
Milled stairs may cost from $2,000 for a hardwood stair with wall rails, to $200,000 on the high end. Most of us are shopping in the $5,000-20,000 range. Budget wisely: shape, style, and material. … [Full story]
As with styles, components made from wood species that are stocked will always cost less than custom orders. We have noticed a trend over the past 8 to 10 years to natural or brown species. … [Full story]
Explore the impact of stair shape on your stair budget. Consider straight, landing, winder, and curved stairs. … [Full story]
An important consideration when designing any space is the presentation and distribution of light. This is especially true when considering a staircase... … [Full story]
One of the first conversations we have with our clients is to establish a budget. It can be a delicate conversation that must start on the foundation of trust. … [Full story]
The highest concentration of traditional full-milled stair shops remains in the Midwest, with Chicago being one of the most concentrated markets. … [Full story]
A squeak in a stair is generally caused as the lumber dries out over time. Hardwoods are regulated by industry standards for a moisture content of 6-8%. This matches the average home. … [Full story]
The most common confusion within the stair building world is, without a doubt, the spiral versus the … [Full story]
Having had the opportunity to work on Luxury stair projects from coast to coast, we have been intrigued by the vast differences in design and construction from one region to another. The greatest distinction is shop-built versus site-built. … [Full story]
The highest concentration of traditional full-milled stair shops remains in the Midwest, with Chicago being one of the most concentrated markets. … [Full story]
If you are buying a stair with balusters in a contrasting material, such as painted balusters on an oak stair, questions will likely arise regarding the finishing of the stair. "Should my painter finish … [Full story]
The main distinction in the world of stair building and design is shop-built vs site-built staircases. What are these methods and how do they differ? … [Full story]
Are you are looking for a one of a kind look to create that WOW factor as you walk into your home? Gold is back — glamorous and bold. Metal suppliers are now offering gold finishes, so we can offer an affordable custom look. … [Full story]
Nosing is required anywhere there is balustrade or newels. Typically, nosing from a flooring company … [Full story]
Installing throughout the greater Chicago area; Selling to all 50 states
Designed Stairs
Showroom (by appointment only), Shop, and Offices
1480 E Sixth Street
Sandwich IL 60548
815-786-7600
