Contemporary architecture is often thought to mean "modern". This is a misnomer, but it's easy to see where people get this idea. Very often contemporary architecture is also modern. Contemporary literally means "of today", so contemporary style is what people are doing now. Contemporary Architecture is a reflection of our lifestyles of today.
Some of the key elements of 2011 contemporary styles [when this article was written] are:
Translating these elements into a stair, we see contemporary stair designs in Wood, Metal, Stone, and Glass. None of these materials fit into every category of our key elements, but they all fit into at least one category.
Taking these materials and creating contemporary — new and unique styles is fun and challenging. In stair and balustrade selections, light and air are the most popular trend! Contemporary stairs today are often open-rise which allow for full light flow right through the stair.
When designing a contemporary stair, customers often expect it to cost less than a more ornate or old world style stair. This is seldom true. Contemporary stairs tend to use costly materials, components are custom made one at a time, the process of designing and building a unique style can be labor intensive, and it may require a higher skill level. If this cost is a key factor in your selection, look first for stock parts to build your design from.
Installing throughout the greater Chicago area; Selling anywhere in the world
Designed Stairs
Showroom (by appointment only), Shop, and Offices
1480 E Sixth Street
Sandwich IL 60548
815-786-7600