The craft of stone staircases
Solid stone staircases have an unmatched beauty and character. They are often very thin and elegant in profile, looking almost gravity defying. This combined with the beauty of natural stone exposed on all faces results in a unique and aesthetically pleasing finished product.
Our techniques draw on both traditional craftsmanship and modern engineering often utilising different methods of design and construction to achieve the desired result.
- Traditional Methods : dating back to the 1600s and often termed “cantilever staircases”, where solid stone treads are set into an adjacent wall.
- Contemporary Techniques : such as reinforcing and post-tensioning, allowing us to create floating staircases that defy gravity, with no visible supports.
Working with solid pieces of premium stones and marbles, we meticulously shape each piece to our specifications, creating unique and beautiful staircases to enhance and stand the test of time.
Commitment to the craft of stonemasonry
In Ian's early career, he was often involved with historic building restoration, working with acclaimed organisations such as The National Trust and English Heritage. Whilst it was a privilege to work on such projects, Ian found the work creatively stifling as the design and innovation aspects were often missing for him.
Combining formal training, traditional skills and an eye for beauty, Ian has gone onto developing his business and portfolio to include work that equally embraces the design and innovation aspects along with the craft of making. From inspired corporate interiors to captivating private homes, Ian's stonework creates a lovingly considered backdrop.
To incorporate interior architecture with stone is to make a lasting commitment to the quirks and character of any property. The team at Ian Knapper is fully committed to producing thoughtfully crafted staircases, fireplaces and other unique schemes featuring bespoke stonework that capture the essence of a space and enhance it.
From the first contact with our team until completion, our clients benefit from our personal care and attention. Our makers are invested in preserving and enhancing the nature of the world’s most prestigious homes and buildings for generations to come.
Featured Products
Cantilever Staircases 
Curved staircases 
Floating Staircases 
Spiral staircases
Bespoke cantilever staircases
Cantilever staircases appear to float out from an adjacent wall with beautiful effect. Technically, the term ‘cantilever’ is somewhat of a misnomer in respect of these staircases. The stairs don’t actually cantilever at all, instead acting in much the same way as an arch.
Traditionally, the design of both curved and cantilever staircases has been somewhat restricted by engineering limitations. Here at Ian Knapper we have rewritten the rules on what is possible using solid natural stone with our bespoke cantilever staircases; creating visually arresting and elegant effects.
We work hard to create bespoke cantilever stone staircases that match their surroundings perfectly. By developing new techniques, we are able to produce cantilever staircases in shapes and sizes which were previously thought to be impossible.
Bespoke curved staircases
Curved staircases appear to float out from an adjacent wall with beautiful effect. Technically, the term ‘cantilever’ is somewhat of a misnomer in respect of these staircases. The stairs don’t actually cantilever at all, instead acting in much the same way as an arch.
Traditionally, the design of both curved and cantilever staircases has been somewhat restricted by engineering limitations. Here at Ian Knapper we have rewritten the rules on what is possible using solid natural stone with our bespoke cantilever staircases; creating visually arresting and elegant effects.
We work hard to create bespoke cantilever stone staircases that match their surroundings perfectly. By developing new techniques, we are able to produce cantilever staircases in shapes and sizes which were previously thought to be impossible.
Floating Staircases
Cantilever staircases appear to float out from an adjacent wall with beautiful effect. Technically, the term ‘cantilever’ is somewhat of a misnomer in respect of these staircases. The stairs don’t actually cantilever at all, instead acting in much the same way as an arch.
Traditionally, the design of both curved and cantilever staircases has been somewhat restricted by engineering limitations. Here at Ian Knapper we have rewritten the rules on what is possible using solid natural stone with our bespoke cantilever staircases; creating visually arresting and elegant effects.
We work hard to create bespoke cantilever stone staircases that match their surroundings perfectly. By developing new techniques, we are able to produce cantilever staircases in shapes and sizes which were previously thought to be impossible.
Spiral staircases
Cantilever staircases appear to float out from an adjacent wall with beautiful effect. Technically, the term ‘cantilever’ is somewhat of a misnomer in respect of these staircases. The stairs don’t actually cantilever at all, instead acting in much the same way as an arch.
Traditionally, the design of both curved and cantilever staircases has been somewhat restricted by engineering limitations. Here at Ian Knapper we have rewritten the rules on what is possible using solid natural stone with our bespoke cantilever staircases; creating visually arresting and elegant effects.
We work hard to create bespoke cantilever stone staircases that match their surroundings perfectly. By developing new techniques, we are able to produce cantilever staircases in shapes and sizes which were previously thought to be impossible.
Case Study Stone that inspires your imagination
Ian Knapper is a specialist staircase designer who creates stunning bespoke modern designs using natural stone. As a company, we design and create beautiful stone staircases, fireplaces and lighting. We combine design skills, craftsmanship and personal service to deliver exquisite bespoke products that offer a lasting experience.
Some of the most beautiful staircases ever created have been crafted from solid natural stone. As staircase designers, we have the pleasure of creating beautifully designed stone staircases that create elegant and gravity-defying effects in a variety of styles including cantilever staircases and stone spiral staircases.
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