The art of ascent – how a floating staircase design transformed a stunning lakeside home

When envisioning a dream residence, attention often gravitates toward the kitchen, flooring, or statement lighting.

Yet one architectural element, often overlooked, has the power to command the entire space: the floating staircase.

In a newly constructed home on the prestigious Lakes by Yoo estate in the Cotswolds, a bespoke floating staircase became far more than a mere functional necessity.

Conceived and executed by the acclaimed staircase specialists at Bisca, this sculptural centrepiece establishes the interior identity of the property, illustrating how thoughtful design can elevate a home from simply stylish to truly exceptional.

Where Vision Takes Shape

Initial concepts for the staircase leaned toward a conventional linear design.

However, the layout of the home revealed a rare opportunity to do something extraordinary.

The homeowners, intent on creating a meaningful architectural experience, turned to Bisca with a singular brief: to design a staircase that was not only practical, but also emotionally resonant—an architectural gesture that would provide guests with an inviting and memorable transition from the ground floor to the upper entertaining suite, which offers far-reaching views of the estate.

With a blank slate to work from, Bisca proposed a sweeping, curved staircase that introduced organic fluidity and visually ‘floating’ treads—an elegant counterpoint to the property’s crisp architectural lines.

Because the design team was brought in prior to construction, they were able to explore “blue sky” concepts from the outset, pushing the creative boundaries well beyond conventional solutions.

Luxury in Harmony with Comfort

A staircase crafted by a specialist should never appear as an afterthought. In this timber-and-steel constructed home, the floating staircase was designed to complement, rather than compete with, the overall architecture.

The exclusion of glass from the initial concepts was an intentional decision, favouring materials and forms that emphasised warmth, tactility, and emotional depth.

“The staircase is one of the few architectural elements where creative expression meets structural integrity,” explains Richard McLane, Bisca’s Founder and Design Director.

“It’s not something an interior designer can typically deliver in isolation, as it demands deep technical understanding of a building’s structural parameters.”

In this project, proportions were paramount.

Generous tread depths, a gentle rise, and continuous curves culminated in sculpted landings that feel as effortless as they are elegant.

Every oak tread was carefully considered for comfort—an essential feature in a home where all three floors are interlinked and actively used.

A Curated Collaboration

Interior designer Kathryn Levitt, already familiar with Bisca’s distinctive approach, recognised the importance of involving them early in the design process.

This collaborative spirit ensured that the staircase felt seamlessly integrated within the broader spatial narrative.

The design evolved in real time, merging artistic ambition with technical precision to produce features such as:

• A dramatic helical form, striking from every angle
• Soft, sweeping curves that enhance spatial flow
• Flared lower treads, drawing users gracefully upwards
• Seamlessly integrated components with concealed joints
• A bespoke central pendant cascading through the open core

“With Bisca’s involvement, we crafted more than just a staircase—we elevated the design language of the entire home,” Kathryn reflects.

“They invested emotionally and understood the intent behind every wider design decision.”

Crafted with Purpose

The material palette was selected to resonate with the home’s natural surroundings.

The result is a floating staircase imbued with warmth, texture, and integrity:

• Liquid bronze stringers with a rich antique patina rise through the home like a metallic ribbon
• Hand-textured oak treads with raised grain that reflect the rugged beauty of the Cotswolds
• Integrated lighting discreetly set beneath each tread, creating the illusion of weightlessness
• Forged uprights, tapered by hand and paired with leather-stitched handrails that invite touch

“From materials and structure to layout and logistics, Bisca leaves no detail unattended,” Kathryn affirms.

“Their expertise added immeasurable value to the project.”

The Power of a Statement Staircase

All too often, staircases are relegated to a secondary role—purely functional rather than emotionally impactful.

Yet, when approached thoughtfully, they can act as the architectural spine of a home, tying together structure, style, and soul.

As McLane observes, ‘A staircase—floating or solid—is not simply a means of moving between levels.

It is something you live with, something that forms part of your daily experience.

When a homeowner recognises this, something truly remarkable can take shape.’

Six Principles for Integrating a Staircase into a Home’s Interior Scheme

1. Engage Early
   The most exceptional staircases are not add-ons—they’re integral. Involve your staircase specialist from the outset of the architectural process to unlock full creative potential and avoid retroactive compromises.

2. Balance Function with Emotion
   Staircases should evoke more than movement. Consider the emotional journey—how the space feels, where it leads, and how it connects the life within the home.

3. Let Form Serve Space
   Allow the staircase to respond to the home’s layout. Curved or floating forms can soften rigid architecture, while angular designs bring definition to open-plan environments.

4. Prioritise Material Cohesion
   Choose finishes and textures that speak to the broader interior scheme—from timber flooring to hardware, window frames, and architectural details.

5. Illuminate with Intent
   Strategic lighting can transform a staircase into a luminous sculptural feature. Explore tread lighting, ambient washes, or a feature pendant to underscore its artistry.

6. Design for the Future
   A beautifully designed staircase creates a lasting impact. It impresses guests, enriches everyday experience, and adds perceived value for future owners.

A staircase crafted by specialists such as Bisca transcends function. It becomes a defining expression of the home—and the people who inhabit it.

To discover more inspirational projects or for designers, builders or architects to arrange a complimentary design consultation, visit Bisca’s staircase gallery or call 01439 771702.