Elegant Oak Staircase, Bath

Set within a Georgian influenced property, an elegant oak staircase and its sinuous curves become a transformative work-of-art, central to our client's beautiful restoration project, in an iconic location of Bath.

Project ID: 7979

Set beneath Bath’s famous crescents and surrounded by mature trees, this elegant period property – inspired by Georgian architecture and built around a century ago – carries a strong sense of heritage. When our clients purchased the home, it was in a poor state of repair, yet the potential was undeniable.

They embarked on a sensitive yet transformative staircase renovation as part of a complete reimagining of their forever home. The brief was unusual in that the main entrance was positioned on the upper level of the property, due its unique hillside location. Bisca’s design was therefore approached from a reverse perspective, with the intention of creating the most visual impact at the top of the structure. The homeowner’s vision was to combine craftsmanship and authenticity, ensuring the new oak staircase would respect the home’s origins, while enhancing its contemporary elegance.

A Staircase Reimagined Through Thoughtful Design

The homeowners sought to reconfigure the traditional layout so that the main living areas, including the kitchen, were positioned on the first floor to take full advantage of the views across the valley. The lower ground floor would become a private retreat with bedrooms and a swimming pool, opening onto the garden. For the staircase to achieve its full potential, the tactile nature of its materials and formation (rather than the treads) would play a crucial role in drawing people downwards.

Central to fulfilling this transformation, was a staircase that would connect both levels in both function and form – a sculptural feature that would embody timeless quality and harmony with its Georgian influenced surroundings.

Designing the Perfect Curved Staircase

Following the initial consultation, Bisca’s design team developed and hand-delivered a range of bespoke samples to Bath, allowing the clients to explore finishes firsthand. Drawn to the warmth and natural character of oak, they chose this as the foundation of their elegantly curved staircase design.

The staircase’s graceful form unfolds like a ribbon when looking at it from above. A leather stitched handrail sweeps into a steep helix, accentuating the structure’s sculptural flow and beautiful curves. This is paired with a hand-forged bronze balustrade, its tapered uprights adding refinement and lightness. The result is a breathtaking oak staircase that resembles as much a work-of-art, as an architectural feature.

Where Every Detail Matters

Every aspect of this oak staircase reflects Bisca’s dedication to fine craftsmanship. The tactile leather handrail invites touch, while the gently concave oak treads guide you effortlessly down to the lower floor. At the base, a flared feature tread provides a moment of arrival and visual balance.

To ensure a seamless finish, Bisca designed custom templates for the main contractor and flooring specialist, integrating the landing nose perfectly. This precision of detailing is what defines Bisca’s bespoke approach – creating continuity between staircase, flooring, and architecture.

Logistical Considerations of a Staircase Renovation

The home’s hillside setting presented early logistical challenges, with limited access for materials and installation. These complexities were addressed from the outset of the design process, ensuring a flawless delivery and fitting process.

A secondary staircase was also commissioned – a more understated yet beautifully proportioned design connecting the utility entrance to the upper level. Though simpler in form, it echoed the same language of craftsmanship and restraint seen in the main curved staircase, ensuring unity throughout the property.

A Timeless Elegance: Oak Staircase as a Lasting Legacy

This project perfectly demonstrates how a staircase renovation can elevate both the function and feeling of a home. The finished oak staircase brings balance to the reconfigured layout, enhancing the architecture while preserving its historic soul.

Our clients were deeply engaged throughout, sharing Bisca’s appreciation for authentic materials and artisanal detail. The collaboration resulted in not only a stunning architectural statement but a lasting relationship built on trust and shared vision.

The final design is a curved oak staircase of rare beauty – honouring its Georgian heritage while creating a timeless, emotional connection for all who experience it.

Here’s What Our Client Had To Say…

“The main staircase is one of the things we are most pleased with – thank you Bisca.”  (AB, Bath, Homeowner)

For further information about this project, please contact our team on 01439 771702 or staircase@bisca.co.uk, quoting the reference below:

Project ID: 7979