Case Study: Bespoke Oak Staircase with Glass Balustrade for London Home Renovation
Project Overview
As leading staircase manufacturers serving London, Hertfordshire, Essex, and Cambridgeshire, we recently completed a premium oak staircase installation for a residential renovation in North London. This case study details how our team of experienced staircase manufacturers designed and crafted a custom oak staircase with glass balustrades that transformed this period property while maintaining its essential character.
Client Requirements
The homeowners in this London renovation project approached our oak staircase specialists with specific criteria:
- Premium quality oak construction with superior craftsmanship
- Contemporary design elements to complement period features
- Improved light flow throughout the hallway and landing areas
- Compliance with all London and UK building regulations
- Durability suitable for a busy family home in the capital
Design and Manufacturing Process
Initial Assessment
Our Hertfordshire-based design team conducted a thorough on-site assessment of the London property, taking precise measurements and discussing various oak staircase design possibilities with the clients. We identified several challenges specific to London period properties, including limited natural light and restricted space in the hallway.
Design Development
Using our advanced CAD system that sets us apart from traditional staircase manufacturers in Essex and surrounding areas, we developed detailed technical drawings for the proposed oak staircase. This technology allowed us to:
- Create accurate 3D visualizations for client approval
- Calculate exact dimensions for each component
- Optimize the design for both aesthetics and structural integrity
- Make precise material calculations to minimize waste
The final design featured solid oak treads (40mm thickness), oak stringers, and oak newel posts combined with 10mm toughened glass balustrades with polished edges. This combination was selected specifically to meet the clients’ requirement for better light distribution throughout the space, a common concern for homeowners in London and Hertfordshire properties.
Material Selection
For this project, our oak staircase specialists selected premium grade European oak with the following specifications:
- Moisture content: 8-10%
- Grade: Prime (minimal knots)
- Finish: Natural oil to enhance grain pattern
- Glass specification: 10mm toughened safety glass to BS EN 12150 standard
Our commitment to quality materials distinguishes our work from other staircase manufacturers across London, Essex, Hertfordshire, and Cambridgeshire.
Manufacturing
Our manufacturing process in our Hertfordshire workshop combined traditional woodworking techniques with modern CNC precision:
- CNC machining of oak components to exact specifications
- Hand-finishing of all visible surfaces by our skilled craftsmen
- Pre-assembly testing to ensure perfect fit
- Custom treatment with natural oil for optimal protection
- Precision cutting of glass panels to fit perfectly between newel posts
Results and Benefits
The completed oak staircase achieved all the objectives established at the project outset:
Aesthetic Improvements
The combination of natural oak and glass created a striking focal point while maintaining harmony with the period features of the London property. The honey tones of the oak complemented the original wooden flooring, while the glass balustrades provided contemporary contrast that’s increasingly popular in home renovations across London, Hertfordshire, Essex, and Cambridgeshire.
Functional Enhancements
Light transmission through the staircase increased significantly. Measurements taken before and after installation showed a 40% increase in natural light levels in the previously dim hallway area. This eliminated the need for additional artificial lighting during daylight hours, a significant benefit in traditional London homes where natural light is often at a premium.
Durability Considerations
The materials and construction methods were selected specifically for longevity:
- European oak’s natural density provides exceptional wear resistance
- Precision manufacturing ensures structural integrity
- Toughened glass offers both safety and durability
- Natural oil finish allows for easy maintenance and refurbishment
Conclusion
This London project demonstrates our ability as premium staircase manufacturers to balance traditional craftsmanship with modern design requirements. By combining oak and glass, we created a staircase that honors the character of the period property while introducing contemporary elements that enhance both aesthetics and functionality.
For homeowners in London, Hertfordshire, Essex, and Cambridgeshire considering an oak staircase for their renovation project, this case study illustrates the benefits of working with experienced staircase manufacturers who understand both the technical requirements and design considerations specific to properties in these areas.
Our team of oak staircase specialists continues to serve clients throughout London, Hertfordshire, Essex, and Cambridgeshire, offering everything from design consultation to complete manufacture and installation services. With over 40 years of experience as staircase manufacturers, we bring unparalleled expertise to every project.
For more information on our oak staircases and other bespoke staircase solutions for properties in London, Hertfordshire, Essex, and Cambridgeshire, contact our design team to arrange a consultation.