Crafting a Unique Floating Timber Staircase in New Mills, Derbyshire

In New Mills, Derbyshire, a remarkable barn conversion stands out with its exceptional centrepiece: a floating timber staircase supported with a single central backbone, the first of its kind for our team at BS&C.

Homeowner, Ian Griswold’s, search for the right staircase for his project led him to our doorstep, driven by the glowing recommendation of a friend. Seeking a blend of contemporary style and an airy ambiance, Ian entrusted us to bring his vision to life, embarking on a collaborative journey with our team.

Upon receiving Ian’s initial brief, we set to work, utilising CAD technology to craft detailed designs. Twelve straight treads, adorned with a glass balustrade comprising eleven glass panes, were tailored to align with Ian’s expectations.

In our innovative design, a singular steel spine supports the staircase, discreetly concealing recessed LED strip lighting beneath. These strips cast a gentle glow that enhances the illusion of the staircase floating. The incorporation of a sleek glass balustrade elevated the modern aesthetic, infusing a touch of refinement that harmonised with the timeless wooden design.

The integration of high-quality materials and contemporary design techniques gave this staircase a sense of natural flow, effortlessly linking spaces within the open-plan layout. Opting for timber not only preserved the rustic charm of the barn but also served as a striking focal point for Ian’s home

The central spine of the staircase was a key feature and presented some unique challenges such as ensuring the steel framework remained square and was resistant to warping during welding. Through our years of expertise, we were able to come up with a clear manufacturing process to overcome these and deliver on Ian’s vision.

The concealed lighting also needed careful planning during the design process. We collaborated with Arden Controls Ltd, who designed and fitted the lighting to ensure the wiring was fully concealed – providing seamless end results.

At BS&C, our commitment to excellence extends beyond design to installation. Each staircase is carefully crafted to provide a distinctive feature in any space. As testified by Ian Griswold: “The plans and visuals were professional, and with the utilisation of cutting-edge measuring equipment, I was very impressed. Timelines were adhered to, and the fitting team surpassed my expectations.”

If you’re inspired to add a bespoke staircase to your own property, we invite you to explore our gallery and reach out to us for a personalised quote. Let us turn your architectural dreams into reality, one step at a time.