Red Oak is generally more affordable than White Oak, prompting many to explore finishing techniques to achieve a similar look. … [Full story]
There are several species of hardwoods that have very bold natural color, such as cherry, walnut, and mahogany. Historically these were the most desirable woods, due to their natural beauty and no need to stain … [Full story]
"I have ugly carpeted stairs, and I want the look of a nice hardwood custom made stair. Should I cover my existing stair with hardwood or replace with new stairs?" … [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]
The highest concentration of traditional full-milled stair shops remains in the Midwest, with Chicago being one of the most concentrated markets. … [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]
The vast majority of stocked stair parts are red oak and white oak is very likely to be a custom order. Since the raw material of white oak is more expensive and White oak parts are generally custom ordered, a white oak staircase will cost more than a red … [Full story]
If you are buying a stair with balusters in a contrasting material, such as painted balusters on an oak … [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]
We get many calls where people no longer want carpet on their stairs and want to upgrade to a custom hardwood stair. What most people don't realize is that stairs are a structural item. … [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
