The Lighthouse Staircase – A Bespoke Curved Oak Staircase for a Passivhaus

A Striking Feature in a Sustainable Home

‍Situated in the heart of the Somerset countryside, this stunning Passivhaus takes centre stage with its impressive architectural design. Young & Norgate had the privilege of collaborating with CaSA Architects in Bath and MAKE, the main contractor, to design, fabricate, and install a bespoke curved Oak staircase that would be the focal point of the home’s interior.

‍Precision Craftsmanship for a Curved Masterpiece

‍The design of the staircase was central to the home’s aesthetic. A key feature of the staircase was its seamless, continuous grain, which wrapped around both the outside and inside faces of the curve, creating a smooth and harmonious flow that integrated beautifully with the surrounding architecture. Every aspect of the design was meticulously planned and executed to ensure the highest standard of craftsmanship.

A hidden door was incorporated into the panel work, leading to the mechanical and electrical room, with additional storage space cleverly housed underneath the stairs. The careful attention to detail extended to the use of 10mm shadow gaps, which highlighted the precise execution of the joinery and added to the clean, contemporary look.

‍Expert Construction and Materials

‍The handrail capping was a particularly technical aspect of the project. Crafted from multiple laminations of solid oak, it was hand-shaped to achieve the compound curve, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. The solid Oak treads and risers were machined to perfection and finished with natural clear OSMO oil, which not only enhanced the wood’s natural beauty but also provided durability and a refined finish.

The process of designing and crafting this staircase required a careful balance of technical expertise, design vision, and craftsmanship. Each piece was carefully considered and built to fit within the sustainable principles of the Passivhaus, all while ensuring the final result was not only functional but also a striking visual statement.‍

A Seamless Integration

‍The end result is a stunning staircase that not only serves as a functional element within the home but also as a piece of art that complements the modern, sustainable design. By working closely with CaSA Architects and MAKE, Young & Norgate was able to bring this bold vision to life, adding a layer of sophistication and elegance to this unique, eco-friendly home. The Lighthouse Staircase stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, craftsmanship, and design excellence.