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]
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 most common confusion within the stair building world is, without a doubt, the spiral versus the … [Full story]
Due to the compact nature of a spiral staircase, they have become widely used in library environments where space is limited and access to upper book storage is necessary. … [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]
To establish design goals look through many magazines and find a dozen or more images of rooms you like. These are not rooms to copy, rather they are rooms that have a feel and look that you relate to; rooms you can see yourself living in. … [Full story]
We often get asked the question: "What parts of my stair should I paint and what should I stain?" When determining what to stain and what to paint, think about the overall feel you want in your space. … [Full story]
Modern design is simple, which is why it amazes me how many forms of modern styles have developed over the past 100 years. Modern stairs come in forms for all tastes and preferences. … [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
