The Rise of Timber in Staircase Design
Timber remains the most widely specified material in staircase design. Yet the most exceptional staircases are rarely defined by the timber alone.
The difference lies in how the material is understood, detailed and crafted. At Bisca, timber is valued not simply for its beauty, but for its extraordinary versatility. Whether introducing warmth into a contemporary architectural space; celebrating the authenticity of a period property; or creating a staircase from materials with a story of their own – timber offers a breadth of creative possibilities which few materials can rival.
By working with a staircase specialist experienced in a wide range of timber options, finishing techniques and construction methods, those possibilities become almost limitless.
Understanding Timber Beyond the Staircase Surface
“I always encourage clients to think about timber in a deeper sense, considering how the timber will age and evolve within the character of their home over time,” founder and design director at Bisca, Richard McLane, explains.
Timber brings a unique warmth and tactility to staircase design – qualities which are central to Bisca’s bespoke approach. Yet selecting the right timber involves far more than choosing a species or colour. Personally, Richard favours natural oil finishes, which preserve the integrity and beauty of the timber itself. One of his preferred combinations is a character oak, finished with a natural oil.
“This sounds simnple, however by introducing a subtle white tint to the oil, the tone of the timber is softened whilst allowing the grain and individuality of the wood to remain visible, so it ages gracefully as the years go on,” Richard continues. This level of consideration ensures a staircase remains connected to its surroundings – not only on the day it is installed, but for decades thereafter.
Unlocking Creative Possibilities
If you are looking for access to a far broader palette of materials and techniques than many realise are available – this is when it becomes advantageous to get a staircase specialist involved. For period homes and barn conversions, Bisca often recommends using solid timber in its rawest and most characterful form.
Over the years, the team has sourced extraordinary materials, including reclaimed canal lock gates, greenheart timber salvaged from harbour props and reclaimed oak originating from Polish vodka barrels. Each timber material was selected not just because it was unique, but because it directly enhanced the architectural narrative of the home it was destined for.
Richard adds:
“The most successful staircase designs are those which feel completely connected to the architecture and personality of the home itself.”
Contemporary Craftsmanship, Timeless Material
While timber is often associated with traditional properties, it has also played a central role within some of Bisca’s most contemporary staircase designs.
Engineered and laminated timbers offer exceptional opportunities when combined with slim steel structures and precision detailing. This approach allows clients to enjoy the warmth and beauty of natural timber, alongside the visual lightness and refined engineering expected within modern interiors.
For example, this multi-flight ash staircase in York (seen to the right) – demonstrates how timber can feel both contemporary and enduring, when guided by specialist design and craftsmanship.
Importantly, these approaches also provide long-term stability, eliminating the risk of natural movement whilst maintaining the authenticity of the material itself.
The Difference a Staircase Specialist Makes
Ultimately, timber offers boundless creative potential when carefully considered. Whether restoring a heritage property, undertaking a significant renovation or creating a contemporary new build, the most successful outcomes come from understanding not only the material, but how it can be used to reinforce the architecture, atmosphere and individuality of a home. Richard concludes:
“Timber offers a diverse range of possibilities. When you understand the materials, the finishes and how they interact with the architecture, you can create something truly unique. It is at this point that the experience of a staircase specialist becomes transformative.”
