Transforming a 1960s Staircase: A Custom Hardwood Staircase in Denver
When you combine skilled craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and a passion for woodworking, you can create something extraordinary. That’s exactly what happened during my recent trip to Denver, where I had the privilege of working on a custom hardwood staircase. This project involved restoring and redesigning a 1960s staircase to give it new life while maintaining its timeless charm.
Collaboration and Craftsmanship
One of the most rewarding aspects of this project was collaborating with my good friend Keith Long of Thunderheart Flooring (learn more about Keith on his YouTube Channel). Together, we tackled the unique challenges of creating a custom hardwood staircase that was both functional and visually striking. Our clients were a dream to work with—trusting us to elevate their staircase beyond a simple renovation to a truly bespoke centerpiece for their home.
Rethinking the Design and Working Around Challenges in a Custom Hardwood Staircase
The original staircase, like many from the 1960s, showed its age. Years of use and carpeting had concealed its potential, and previous modifications had affected its functionality. Our goal was to restore its beauty while implementing thoughtful updates to maximize the space and enhance its usability.
One of the first steps in the process was removing the curtail from the bottom tread. By eliminating this element, we opened up the entryway, creating a more spacious and inviting look. Next, we recessed a new newel post into the second step, further optimizing the layout for improved functionality.
To save space in the stairway, we jogged the handrail while maintaining a continuous flow along the open side of the stairs. These adjustments required precision and care, ensuring that every change enhanced the overall design while meeting modern standards of safety and durability.
Bringing a Custom Hardwood Staircase to Life
With the structural improvements complete, we focused on revitalizing the appearance of the staircase. The clients selected a neutral stain to highlight the natural beauty of the wood. This choice gave the custom hardwood staircase a clean, timeless aesthetic that seamlessly blended with the home’s overall design.
As part of the process, we drilled picket holes with precision to ensure a polished and professional finish. Every detail, from the flow of the handrail to the uniformity of the stain, was carefully considered to achieve a cohesive look.
Why a Custom Hardwood Staircase Matters
A custom hardwood staircase isn’t just a functional feature—it’s a statement piece. It can transform an entryway, setting the tone for the entire home. This project exemplified how a staircase can be both beautiful and practical, elevating the everyday experience of moving through the space.
What sets a custom hardwood staircase apart is the attention to detail. From selecting the perfect wood to designing every curve and line, it’s about creating something that’s uniquely tailored to the home and its owners. For this Denver project, every decision was made with the clients’ needs and aesthetic preferences in mind, resulting in a staircase that is as practical as it is stunning.
Collaboration and Expertise
This project reminded me how important collaboration is when creating a custom hardwood staircase. Working with Keith Long was a highlight of the experience. His expertise and passion for flooring complemented my own, and together, we brought this staircase back to life. It’s not every day you get to work alongside someone who shares your dedication to quality and artistry.
Final Thoughts on a Custom Hardwood Staircase
The Denver project was more than just a renovation—it was the creation of a custom hardwood staircase that stands as a testament to thoughtful design and expert craftsmanship. Restoring and enhancing this staircase brought out its mid-century charm while updating it for modern living.
If you’re considering a custom hardwood staircase for your home—whether it’s a restoration, redesign, or entirely new installation—I’d love to bring your vision to life. Together, we can create something timeless, functional, and uniquely yours.
If you want to create a custom luxury hardwood floor, start here. Take a look at some of the awards my floors have won here.
