--- title: "Gauge Design Group — Staircases & Railings | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/staircases-and-railings/gauge-design-group-pfvwus-pf~662781528 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~662781528.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Gauge Design Group" category: ["Staircases & Railings"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/86f3cc1e0e1e3411_7742-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "3810 4th Ave South, Seattle, Washington 98134, United States" latitude: 47.5903 longitude: -122.3263 phone: "(206) 587-5354" website: http://gaugegroup.com/ rating: 4.9 review_count: 17 best_of_houzz_awards: 4 followers: 152 last_updated: 2026-08-21 --- # Gauge Design Group Original Houzz profile: [Gauge Design Group](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/staircases-and-railings/gauge-design-group-pfvwus-pf~662781528) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Staircases & Railings - **Location:** Seattle, WA - **Serves:** Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Bainbridge Island, Clyde Hill, Medina, Yarrow Point, Hunts Point, Aspen, Ballard, Bel Air, Beverly Hills, Brentwood, Hawaii, Jackson Hole, Park City, San Francisco, San Juan Islands, Silicon Valley, Sun Valley, Vail - **Houzz rating:** 4.9 out of 5 (17 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 4 awards (2015–2018), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 1,000 Ideabook Saves Gauge Design Group is a Seattle-based design and fabrication practice founded on the ideas that beautiful things and spaces have a positive effect on people’s lives. Our work can be found across America. The best projects begin with great teams and proper planning. At Gauge Design Group we partner with architects, contractors, interior designers, and homeowners to provide conceptual visions for your future space. Our in-house team of designers and craftsmen provide seamless integration for every project from design to fabrication through installation. We believe the process of creating a beautiful space should be as well-crafted and enjoyable as the end result. ### Services Provided - Stair Installation - Staircase Design - Custom Cabinetry - Custom Furniture - Custom Woodwork - Metal Fabrication ### Areas Served - Seattle - Bellevue - Kirkland - Mercer Island - Bainbridge Island - Clyde Hill - Medina - Yarrow Point - Hunts Point - Aspen - Ballard - Bel Air - Beverly Hills - Brentwood - Hawaii - Jackson Hole - Park City - San Francisco - San Juan Islands - Silicon Valley - Sun Valley - Vail ### Typical Job Cost $100,000 - 10 million Budgets are design driven. We work with homeowners, architects, and builders for assembling custom remodeling projects to full turn-key design, engineering, fabrication and installation of estate level projects. ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Gauge Design Group | | Address | 3810 4th Ave South, Seattle, Washington 98134, United States | | Phone | (206) 587-5354 | | Website | http://gaugegroup.com/ | | Followers on Houzz | 152 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — http://facebook.com/seattlestair - LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/company/gauge-design-group - Blog — http:www.gaugegroup.com ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Gauge Design Group](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/staircases-and-railings/gauge-design-group-pfvwus-pf~662781528) - **Website:** http://gaugegroup.com/ - **Phone:** (206) 587-5354 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - SMA Award Winner for Best Stair 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010. 2011, 2012, and 2014. - Pacific Northwest Design Awards 2012 and 2013 - **Best of Houzz:** 4 awards (2015–2018), for Service. **Affiliations** - [National Association of Home Builders](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/national-association-of-home-builders-pfvwus-pf~562065019) - [NAHB Remodelers](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/professionals/schools-and-organizations/nahb-remodelers-pfvwus-pf~597469654) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 4.9 out of 5 — 17 reviews** ### Reviews **★★★★ — John Konrad, Feb. 2017** > Was very pleased that they took a very small job such as ours and gave it the same attention that they would have a big job. **Comment from Gauge Design Group:** > John, thank you for the kind words. It was a pleasure working with you on your railing project. > > Best, > Nic **★★★★★ — Banks Woodwork, Jan. 2017** > I went to Gauge Design Group to make several custom porch balusters on a lathe. They were just too large for me to make in my own shop, so I took in one of the damaged balusters we were replacing as a template and they did a fantastic job of replicating. Very professional and easy to work with. I would definitely recommend them. **Comment from Gauge Design Group:** > Mark, thank you for the kind words. It was a pleasure working with you as well. Those railings are coming together great! > > Best, > Nic **★★★★★ — lindakeen, Oct. 2016** > We hired Gauge Design Group because we knew they had particular expertise in custom stairways. Even though our project was a small one, we just wanted a custom hand rail for our interior stairwell, they made us feel as though our project was as important to them as one of their much bigger (and more profitable) projects. > Our experience with Gauge Design Group has been completely satisfactory. From the initial phone contact, through the completion of the project, all aspects were handled professionally. They did what they said they were going to do and they did it on time and on budget. Oh, and the finished product is beautiful! Thank you to the entire Gauge team. **Comment from Gauge Design Group:** > Linda, > > It was a pleasure working with you, and we're glad everything turned out so well. Your new space is coming together beautifully and we were happy to play our part. Thank you. > > Nic **★★★★★ — torrboy, Oct. 2016** > We first approached Gauge Design Group (then known as Seattle Stair & Design) in March of 2016 to look at a project we were interested in having them quote. They responded immediately, reviewing the sketches we provided, visiting the site, developing the design, and meeting with us a number of times at their shop and at the house. The development of the design was great, culminating in a final proposal and a signed agreement. The build process was straightforward, we had a few change requests that were accommodated without issue, and the installation went very well. With that being so successful, we engaged them on another project involving a milled ipe handrail along the deck. Again, the entire project went off without a hitch with beautiful results. Highly recommended. **Comment from Gauge Design Group:** > Thank you for the kind words and for inviting us to become a part of the design and fabrication team for your project. My whole crew enjoyed the process of this project, and we're delighted with the end result. > > Best, > Nic **★★★★★ — Jenny Xiao, July 2016** > We had a very good experience with Gauge Design Group. Nic and his team designed an amazing new staircase for our house and installed it efficiently. The high quality exceeded our expectation. The craftsmanship is stunning. The customer service is super. From getting estimate to completing installation, they take care of every detail in the whole project. It's very easy to communicate with them. We highly recommend them. **Comment from Gauge Design Group:** > Jenny, > > We appreciate the feedback and the positive words. We enjoyed working with you throughout your renovation project and are equally please with the end result. Thank you for the opportunity to work together. > > Best, > Nic **★★★★★ — stevenjknipp, May 2016** > Design and installation of staircase handrail. Nic and team provided professional service and excellent attention to details of product. Very responsive with follow up and completion details. **Comment from Gauge Design Group:** > Thank you for the great feedback. It was a pleasure to complete this project for you. > > Warmly, > Nic **★★★★★ — Mary Chandler, Jan. 2016** > Nic and his team took great care of me! They designed and built a beautiful steel and maple staircase and railing for my home. I appreciated their meticulous attention to detail, strong communication skills, and professional, friendly demeanor. **Comment from Gauge Design Group:** > Thank you for the kinds words. It was a pleasure working with you throughout the railing redesign. We appreciate your business. **★★★★★ — ryanesimmons99, Oct. 2015** > I searched far and wide to find someone to turn some balusters for me that matched the originals from my 1904 Craftsman. Seattle Stair did a great job, in a timely fashion, at a reasonable price! Nic at the front desk even met me at my car to process my payment because both of my kids were sleeping in car seats! Thanks guys! **Comment from Gauge Design Group:** > Ryan, > > Thanks for the opportunity to turn your custom balusters. We love specialized projects like this. > > Best, > Nic **★★★★★ — eos2sail, Sept. 2015** > The project was a Roubo Workbench made in Ash. I just retired and after 30 years as a wood worker hobbyist, I began to research what kind of a workbench I wanted to work on as I became a full time wood worker! I also decided that at 68, I would rather have someone build a bench for me than build it myself. I looked at the benches one can get at Woodcraft, Rockler, and Lie-Nielsen. Only Lie-Nielsen matched the minimum specifications that I wanted, but the shipping cost a lot from the east coast to Seattle. One day on my bike ride, I thought why wouldn't I find someone local to build what I specifically wanted. I had done a lot of research and from a previous experience with the craftsman at Seattle Stair, I thought it might be worth a call. As luck would have it, on the first call, I got the senior turner who had help me before. It turned out we had read all the same books on benches, and their various ancestries - German, English, American Shaker and French Roubo. We both liked the French Roubo Bench and the shop got totally excited about building one for me. It was one of the best experiences I have ever had. It is a spiritual experience each time I walk into my small shop and see my bench and work on it. Thank you Seattle Stair, and Nic and Michael in particular. You are a special place with special and committed crafts people. **Comment from Gauge Design Group:** > It was a pleasure to work with you, and our entire shop enjoyed watching the progress of the bench build. I expect that bench will outlast us all, and be passed down for future craftspeople to cherish. Thank you for the kind words and the opportunity to create beautiful work. > > Warm Regards, > Nic **★★★★★ — hynuxo, Sept. 2015** > It has been a pleasure to work with the knowledgeable and helpful staff from Seattle Stair and Design. They make it so you want to build staircases everyday and in every day. **Comment from Gauge Design Group:** > Thanks for the positive review! We were glad to provide a solution for your railing project. > > Regards, > Nic **★★★★★ — gayle68, July 2015** > Remodel of our staircase. Removed old oak newels, handrails and posts. Replaced and stained dark wood and changed posts to wrought iron. Beautiful work by Seattle Stairs. **Comment from Gauge Design Group:** > Gayle - Thank you for the kind words. > I just love the before and after transformation of your space. > Best Wishes - DS **★★★★★ — mmcnees, July 2015** > Seattle Stairs designed and installed a new staircase in our entryway, leading to living room and second floor. David listened carefully to our ideas and desires and translated these into a beautiful design. Our staircase is the centerpiece of our home. In 2015, as part of a kitchen remodel, we are using the newel post design as corner posts for a new island. David very graciously arranged for the metal caps as used on staircase. Wonderful company and staff! ## Selected projects - [Redfin](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/redfin-pj-vj~2475936) - Location: Seattle, WA - Photos: 3 - Description: A shop constructed four flight feature staircase for residential real estate company, Redfin. This steel, wood, and glass staircase featured a custom fabricated steel tread and riser system with solid domestic hardwood treads, tempered monolithic glass, and appleply CNC cut "steet map" for inside balustrade. Architect: Gensler Contractor: Gateway Construction Project Photography: Ye-h Photography - [Orcas Island Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/orcas-island-residence-pj-vj~2055655) - Location: Eastsound, WA - Photos: 7 - Description: A modern kitchen in a private residence featuring blackened steel and horizontal grain Larch cabinetry, shou sugi ban lighting fixtures, and in-house custom built chairs. Architect: Patano Studio Architecture - [Tankard and Tun](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/tankard-and-tun-pj-vj~2767003) - Location: Seattle, WA - Photos: 11 - Description: A turn-key project, Gauge Design Group provided shop drawings, fabrication, and installation for Tankard and Tun, a restaurant in Seattle's Pike Place Market. Architect: Bumgardner Architects Contractor: MRJ Constructors - [Waterfront Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/waterfront-residence-pj-vj~1709595) - Location: Seattle, WA - Photos: 6 - Description: Blackened steel monostringers, bleached American Walnut treads and handrail handsomely frame a blackened steel curved railing system with custom laser cut steel stanchions. Ribbons of steel that are integral to the stair treads on the upper flight add moments of flair and beauty to this shop-built, site assembled stair. Architect: Kristi Hansen Contractor: Schuchart/Dow - [West Seattle Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/west-seattle-residence-pj-vj~240087) - Location: Seattle, WA - Photos: 5 - Description: This geometrically complex residential stair features a wreathed paneled soffit in quartersawn White Oak, complimented by quartersawn White Oak treads and winders. The hand carved black lacquered handrail creates a single continuous curve that carries through all three flights of stairs. Custom tapered paint grade balusters are placed on bias to create a truly stunning staircase. - [Custom Furniture](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/custom-furniture-pj-vj~2450556) - Location: Seattle, WA - Photos: 8 - Description: Gauge Design Group's handcrafted furniture can be the final accent piece that creates cohesiveness throughout a home. - [Wine Cellar](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/wine-cellar-pj-vj~2450575) - Location: Seattle, WA - Photos: 4 - [Madison Park Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/madison-park-residence-pj-vj~2450480) - Location: Seattle, WA - Photos: 9 - [San Juan Island Estate](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/san-juan-island-estate-pj-vj~1408142) - Location: Friday Harbor, WA - Photos: 3 - Description: A grand stair in Walnut with traditional turned balusters and paneled soffit throughout. The starter box newel provides a solid anchor to the elegance of the stair. - [Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bill-and-melinda-gates-foundation-pj-vj~2450579) - Location: Seattle, WA - Photos: 1 - [West Seattle Spiral](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/west-seattle-spiral-pj-vj~113614) - Location: Seattle, WA - Photos: 4 - Description: When the front door opens - this is a wow. This lovely spiral acts as a design anchor in this nautically designed beachfront cottage. Wave pattern treads and bronzed balustrade and metalwork complete the look. The stair provides access to the guest quarters and suite making the journey and memory of this place just that much more dramatic. - [Montlake Waterfront Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/montlake-waterfront-residence-pj-vj~2448724) - Location: Seattle, WA - Photos: 8 - Description: Craftsman detailing nicely compliments the design of this traditional home. This project included a complete custom kitchen with island, built-in bench seating, a full height pantry with custom pull-outs, and a built in desk. - [Capitol Hill Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/capitol-hill-residence-pj-vj~113609) - Location: Seattle, WA - Photos: 7 - Description: Patinaed steel is the primary material in this minimalist stair. Blackened wood treads are cantilevered out from a recessed wall stringer and hung from the lower portion of the handrail. A leather wrapped wood rail adds a clean element of comfort and warmth to this project. - [Wailea Point Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/wailea-point-residence-pj-vj~1134626) - Location: Wailea-Makena, HI - Photos: 3 - Description: This modern stair features Red Gum stringers and posts & treads paired with bead blasted steel panels and brackets. The contrasting Wenge handrail anchors the design. - [Maui Waterfront Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/maui-waterfront-residence-pj-vj~16079) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 4 - Description: In this minimalistic design, careful consideration was given to the use of light feeling materials. Brushed stainless handrail and curved glass panels are filleted into a bright white stringer, while hidden anchors provide a strong and sturdy connection. - [Puget Sound Waterfront](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/puget-sound-waterfront-pj-vj~2450587) - Location: Seattle, WA - Photos: 6 - Description: A mid-century waterfront remodel featuring brushed stainless steel and walnut handrail with a wreathed fitting and custom steel handrail brackets. - [Edmonds Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/edmonds-residence-pj-vj~1176073) - Location: Edmonds, WA - Photos: 4 - Description: White Oak winder treads lead the eye up the second level in an inviting fashion. A wreathed handrail flows into a volute on either side of the bullnosed starter tread. The upper box newels are expertly crafted with hand carved inlays and beautifully figured Karelian Birch panels. - [Seattle Area Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/seattle-area-residence-pj-vj~2450537) - Location: Seattle, WA - Photos: 3 - Description: White Oak treads elegantly lead to a series of winder steps, and a landing that is perfectly centered above the entryway of this seattle home. The detailing of each custom turned baluster was adjusted slightly to mimic the curve of the wreathed African Mahogany handrail. A cast silver mortgage button adds distinguishment and tradition to the starter newel. - [Contemporary Elegance](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/contemporary-elegance-pj-vj~16077) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 4 - [Pivot Door](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pivot-door-pj-vj~2450665) - Location: Seattle, WA - Photos: 3 [See all 28 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/staircases-and-railings/gauge-design-group-pfvwus-pf~662781528) ## Ideabooks - [farm](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/107344270/list/farm) — 1 idea - [inspiration](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/20126483/list/inspiration) — 3 ideas [See all 2 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/gaugedesigngroup) ## Community Q&A **Q: Beautiful design.** *(in Photo Questions)* Where is the dining light from? A: Hi Tiffany. This is a custom light fixture that we designed for this project. If you are interested in something similar we would be happy to discuss options with you. Thanks for the inquiry. **Q: Where can you buy this fused glass?** *(in Photo Questions)* Looking for one piece of this glass 3-1/2" x 3-1/2". Does any one know where you can buy it from? The perfect thing to finish railing! A google search left me with no answers. A: Hi Michael, for this railing project we worked with a local glass studio to fabricate custom slumped glass inserts for use in the railing. Seeking out a local glass artist is likely your best bet for a custom piece such as this. **Q: Chair and lamp** *(in Photo Questions)* Great job. Could you share the references for the chair and lamp? A: Thank you for the kind words. The chair and lamp were conceived by our in-house design team and are fabricated in our Seattle workshop. Do you have an upcoming project for which they'd be a good fit? Please give us a call if you'd like to learn more. 206-587-5354 **Q: How much?** *(in Photo Questions)* Can you put a slide on it? A: Hi Sophie. Each project we do is custom. The price varies widely based upon the design details, dimensions, transitions, etc. We would be happy to design a spiral stair with a slide for you. If you would like us to look at your project please contact us at info@seattlestair.com. Thanks for the interest. **Q: Love the stair rails! what type of glass is used for the insert?** *(in Photo Questions)* This is a gorgeous staircase - could you please tell me what type of glass you used for the stair rail inserts, and where you sourced it? A: Thank you slainte9! The inserts are slumped glass. **Q: Hi like this balusters from where can I obtain them?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Hi there. These balusters were custom fabricated for our client using waterjet cut parts. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-21.*