Offset Floating Stair

Serving as a focal point for a stunning new custom home build in Newton, MA, this distinctive floating 2-story staircase incorporates several different fabrication elements including wood treads, glass rail panels, and a metal cap rail.  

The project reflects our highly integrated and meticulous approach, beginning with our collaboration with architect Treffle LaFleche of LDa Architecture & Interiors. As the first major component of the home one sees on entering, the stairway sets the tone for the overall aesthetic and impact. As the listing eloquently states, “Upon entering the home you cannot help but appreciate the one-of-one custom fabricated steel, glass and wood staircase that is a functional piece of art.”

Unlike the typical new build project (is any project really typical?), MMS was brought on after construction had already begun. Our job was to seamlessly incorporate the stairway structure into the already existing framing, all as construction was ongoing, no small feat.

The plan, featuring a striking offset stringer and serving as a unifying element with its extension from the second floor to the finished basement, needed to be perfectly executed. To take the architect’s design concept and make it a beautiful final build, we incorporated natural wood treads furnished to the builder by our frequent partner, Hardwood Design of Rhode Island complemented by glass rail panels accented by a matte black metal cap rail. The result is effortless, weightless beauty that seamlessly extends from the balcony overlooking the first floor entryway throughout the lower levels. 

When it came to the glass panel and wood tread design, we employed a subtle trompe l'oeil effect by affixing a separate wood cap outside the glass to create the look of the glass coming through the solid wood tread. The effect is continued in the landing for a truly cohesive look. The steel stringer and cap rail were painted in a matte black finish and serve to both ground and highlight the floating stairway design. We hope you agree the final effect is nothing short of stunning.