Red Oak is generally more affordable than White Oak, prompting many to explore finishing techniques to achieve a similar look. … [Full story]
There are two main design features to consider as you select a wood for your trim: color and grain. Color can be adjusted through stain, while grain gives the wood its style and character. … [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]
There are many choices in hardwood flooring today. A recent search revealed over 25 species of readily available hardwood flooring from which to select. Over half of these species are imported from other … [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]
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]
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 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]
When we quote stairs in custom wood species we often hear the question: "Why are stairs in custom wood species so much more expensive than oak?" … [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]
Bamboo has become popular in the past few years. It is desirable due to its sustainability and unique appearance. Bamboo is a unique material, and has some limitations compared to other wood species. … [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
