Custom Staircases Chicago: Fine Hardwood Stairs for Homes and Builders

Chicago's leading custom staircase specialist for over 55 years.

From simple and sleek wooden stairways to dramatic, curved staircase masterpieces, we create staircases that are both beautiful and built to last.

If you're a homeowner, builder, designer, or renovator in Chicago, our stair experts will bring your vision to life with craftsmanship, premium materials, and personalized service tailored to your home.

  • Over 55 years of experience
  • Built to last
  • Designed for Chicago homes
Custom staircase with iron balusters in a Chicago home

What Makes Chicago Stair Projects Different?

Staircase project in Chicago
  • Older “vintage” homes have small or awkward stair spaces and need custom solutions.
  • High-rise buildings present logistical challenges, and open-concept layouts call for stairs that blend seamlessly with the space.
  • Chicago winters mean sturdy handrails, treads, and finishes that handle heat and snow.
  • We've done thousands of stairs in Chicago and know local codes, neighborhoods, and home styles.
See How We Can Help

Custom Stair Services in Chicago

Designed Stairs is your full-service staircase partner, from concept to completion, proudly serving Chicago and Chicagoland. We handle every detail with care and craftsmanship.

New Build Design & Planning

Work with our designers to plan your staircase from the ground up.

  • Space planning and code compliance
  • Material and style selection
  • 3D renderings and previews
  • Timeline & budget planning

Remodel Stair & Rails

Replace outdated stairs and rails with safer, stronger, more attractive new stairs and rails.

  • Full stair tear-outs and rebuilds
  • Baluster replacements
  • Full rail replacements, including curved rails
  • Removal of half walls to new balustrade

Fabricated Stair and Rail Kits

Our stair and rail kits elevate the quality of the end product for experienced trim carpenters. Ordering a kit is easier and faster than ordering parts and pieces, and provides endless style and material choices.

  • Design and layout work provided
  • Full fabricated kit with all components needed
  • Limitless styles and material choices
  • Stringers are cut
  • Treads and risers cut and sub-assembled
  • Newels fabricated for fast install

Stair Parts

Upgrade, refresh, or customize with added staircase parts, including replacement:

  • Treads
  • Risers
  • Newel posts
  • Balusters
  • Handrails
  • Iron or metal spindles

Modern & Rustic Stair Projects

From sleek modern stairs to rustic farmhouse looks, we design staircases that fit your vision.

  • Contemporary metal and wood
  • Rustic wood and reclaimed

Staircase & Railing Design

Coordinate railings and staircases to complement your home's architecture and style.

  • Wood, metal, glass, or cable railing options
  • Custom layouts and patterns

Custom Staircase Options for Chicago Homes

  • Straight Staircasesclean, timeless, and perfect for classic homes
  • Curved Staircaseselegant, custom curves for a grand entrance
  • Open-Riser Stairsmodern, airy look ideal for lofts and modern homes
  • Floating Stairssleek, minimal, and architectural statement pieces
  • Spiral Staircasescompact, stylish solutions for small spaces
  • L-Shaped Stairsspace-saving turns with visual appeal
  • U-Shaped Stairsgreat for multi-level and traditional floor plans
  • Basement Staircasesfunctional designs that fit any basement layout
Custom staircase options for Chicago homes

Recent Chicago Stair Projects

Wrought-iron balusters with trimmed newels in a Chicago home.
Wrought-iron balusters with trimmed newels in a Chicago home.
A curved staircase with iron balusters and a warm wood handrail.
A curved staircase with iron balusters and a warm wood handrail.
A restored historic staircase with turned balusters and original scrollwork.
A restored historic staircase with turned balusters and original scrollwork.
A Craftsman-style stair in warm oak with square balusters and boxed newels.
A Craftsman-style stair in warm oak with square balusters and boxed newels.
A modern floating stair with light-wood treads and a stainless cable railing.
A modern floating stair with light-wood treads and a stainless cable railing.
A contemporary stair with a glass balustrade against exposed Chicago brick.
A contemporary stair with a glass balustrade against exposed Chicago brick.

Chicago Neighborhoods and Chicagoland Communities Served

Serving neighborhoods across the city of Chicago. We build custom staircases and railings for homes throughout the city.

What Builders, Designers, and Homeowners Say

The reviews people share with us prove our dedication to quality, service, and results.

★★★★★
Designed Stairs is Chicago's “go to stair company” because of their knowledge, quality and selection. They take you through the entire process which is important given the vast options available. There is nothing they cannot do and they only produce beautiful work. Being a preferred resource for all Chicago's high end builders and interior designers for decades is just another reason I work with no one else.
Michael Abrams, Abrams Valenti — Trade Professional
★★★★★
Environs Development designs and builds distinctive luxury custom homes. We are a full-service firm with a rare mix of credentials under one roof. The same can be said of Designed Stairs. They have true expertise in all aspects of a professional stair firm. They have been a valuable partner sub-contractor with Environs since our start in 1991.
Christopher McKinnis, Environs Development — Trade Professional
★★★★★
We hired Designed Stairs to do a new stairwell wall railing and upper stairwell railing (banisters, newel, etc.). Harburt was so great to work with, very patient and very informative. They had amazing choices and really were great partners through the whole process to help us get to our desired vision. Day of the install was quick, thorough and respectful of the space. Have gotten so many compliments on the work and absolutely recommend them to anyone in the Chicagoland area.
Alichia S., Homeowner — Chicago
★★★★★
Designed Stairs installed six stairways for us in two neighboring, high end, custom Chicago residences. Their field measuring and preparation prior to fabrication makes all the difference. Their pricing is fair, and their work is perfect! Without a doubt, we will be working again in the future!
William Wangler, Trade Professional — Chicago
★★★★★
The Designed Stairs team is extremely professional and kind. Highly recommend them. They know their products and craft very well. We worked with Jason to get a detailed quote and the team designed a lovely staircase.
James P., Homeowner — Chicago

Why Choose Designed Stairs for Custom Staircases in Chicago and Chicagoland?

Start Planning Your Custom Staircase in Chicago or Chicagoland

Whether you're building new, remodeling, or upgrading your staircase, we're here to help you create something beautiful and built to last.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

Custom Staircases Chicago FAQs

How much does a custom staircase cost in Chicago?

Costs vary based on size, materials, and design complexity. Contact us for a free estimate.

How long does it take to build a custom staircase?

Most projects take 3 to 8 weeks, depending on the scope and materials.

Do you provide stair parts or just full stair systems?

We provide both. We can supply individual parts or build and install complete staircases.

Can you match my existing floors or wood tones?

Yes! We offer custom stains and finishes to match or complement your flooring.

Are your staircases up to code?

Yes. All staircases are built to meet or exceed Illinois building codes and safety standards.

Do you build outdoor staircases?

Yes! We build durable, weather-resistant outdoor staircases for decks, porches, and entries.

Where do you provide service?

We serve all of Chicago and Chicagoland. See full service areas above.