The Art of Ascent – Where Vision Takes Shape
Every interior designer seeks that one unforgettable design moment; the feature that elevates a well-executed scheme into something truly extraordinary. While lighting, finishes, and furnishings are essential, one architectural element holds the power to define a project – the staircase.
In high-end residential interiors, a unique staircase can transcend its functional purpose to become a sculptural centrepiece – an anchor of spatial experience. At the exclusive Lakes by Yoo development, a recent collaboration between interior designer Kathryn Levitt and staircase specialist Bisca demonstrates how a floating staircase became the visual and emotional heart of a home.
Curated Collaboration Between Specialist and Designer
Kathryn’s brief was clear: replace a standard staircase design with something exceptional — a centrepiece that felt alive, elegant and unexpected. She brought staircase specialists Bisca in at the concept stage, well before construction began. That early involvement shaped every detail of the final design.
What emerged was a stunning floating staircase, gracefully curved across three floors. It softened the home’s bold architectural edges, encouraging spatial flow and visual rhythm. Wide oak treads and a shallow rise were paired with tread-integrated lighting, creating a theatrical ascent that reveals panoramic views with every step. At every level the staircase offered a different perspective on the surrounding landscape.
“The wow factor is immediate,” said the homeowner. “Everyone who visits comments on the staircase. It’s become a real talking point.”
Staircase Ideas That Inspire: Designing Without Limits
For interior designers seeking bespoke staircase ideas, Bisca brings more than staircase fabrication — they offer a creative design partnership. Instead of inserting a staircase into a finished layout, Bisca works alongside the full design team to make the staircase part of the home’s architectural DNA. This approach invites interior designers to dream bigger, knowing they have a technical and creative expert by their side.
“When we collaborate with detail-focused designers like Kathryn, our creativity flourishes,” says Richard McLane, Bisca’s Founder and Design Director. “Great outcomes like this one come from shared vision and trust.”
Engineering a Floating Staircase with Sculptural Impact
This was more than a staircase – it redefined the home’s vertical flow. From its flared base which invites movement, to concealed riser lighting within each nosing, every component was purposeful. The floating staircase spirals upward like a sculptural ribbon, with precision craftsmanship at its core.
Materiality was also key; liquid bronze steel with antique patina, hand-forged balustrade uprights, and tactile oak treads combined to bring warmth, contrast and tactility. A hand-stitched leather handrail, created by Bisca’s in-house artisans, delivered a final touch of luxury.
“Bisca added value at every stage,” says Kathryn. “From structural advice to aesthetic detailing — nothing was overlooked.”
How an Interior Designer Will Benefit from a Staircase Specialist
A staircase specialist brings together the structural and the sculptural – an intersection that few designers can tackle alone. Bisca manages everything from engineering and compliance to bespoke fabrication and logistics, allowing the interior designer to focus on the overall creative vision and impact.
“Staircases aren’t just functional,” says McLane. “They’re sculptural, emotional, and highly technical. That’s where Bisca’s role comes into its own.”
Ready to Elevate Your Next Interior Project?
At this Lakes by Yoo property, the staircase became more than a functional element – it provides a journey of movement, light and layered craftsmanship. For interior designers looking to deliver standout moments in their projects, Bisca offers more than design – they offer a transformative approach centred around creativity and collaboration.
Explore Bisca’s staircase gallery here, or to book a free design consultation, you can contact their team on: 01439 771702 or staircase@bisca.co.uk.