To bring this semi-freestanding curved wood staircase to life at the Forest House, we explored the balance between digital precision and traditional craftsmanship. Working alongside Otis Construction, Jessica Helgerson Interior Design, and Yianni Doulis was a masterclass in collaboration, resulting in a custom architectural feature that feels like it’s floating through the space.

To achieve the design intent for this modern luxury staircase, we married 21st-century digital fabrication techniques with age-old traditional hand-carving. Beginning with a full-site 3D scan, we drew each component individually to match the precise locations of the framing and finished materials.

We started the fabrication process by using a CNC machine to handle the complex geometry and structural math, ensuring the foundation of the white oak staircase was mathematically perfect. However, the true soul of the project emerged when we turned the machines off. We spent countless hours hand-sculpting every transition to ensure the custom oak tread and handrail didn't just meet the steel structural elements, but flowed into them organically.

A special thank you to Tice Industries for machining the custom steel newel posts and minimalist balusters in solid steel. Finished with a custom blackened steel patina, they transform this architectural installation into a piece of fine furniture.

In the end, this curved silhouette bridges the gap between modern digital design and old-world craftsmanship. It was an honor to be part of the Pacific Northwest design team that brought this ambitious residential build to life.