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First Step Designs is a leading UK designer, fabricator, and installer of bespoke central spine staircases. Over the last 10 years, we’ve helped dozens of homeowners in Cheshire and its surroundings improve their homes with central spine staircases that act as a dramatic and impressive centrepiece, elevate their homes’ value, and command attention.
In 2023 and 2024 alone, First Step Designs was featured onGrand Designs, won the Best Staircase award at the 2024 Build ItAwards, and we’ve been working on increasingly high-profile projects. We look forward to showing you why we’re fast becoming a dominant name in the UK custom staircase industry.
Unlike many of our competitors, we custom design and fabricate every part of your staircase ourselves, steering clear of stock items and box sections covered in unsightly welds. Our spines feature laser-cut profiles, custom-fabricated into a seamless architectural structure that’s visually flawless and with no visible manufacturing details.
Reach out to us for an obligation-free discussion about how we can help you build a central spine staircase that complements your home, personal taste, and style, creating an architectural feature that enhances your home.
Designing, fabricating, and installing central spine staircases comes with a unique set of challenges and considerations when compared to other types of staircases. We factor in the differences in structural loads, rely on high-precision engineering and fabrication practices to ensure stability and understand the importance of a perfect-fit installation, among many other unique considerations.
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Your new or renovated stairs are no more than a quick call, email or message away.
You can also use our Inspiration Gallery to save images of our work that you like. Then, simply send them along with any other photos, plans, or details through our contact form so we can discuss your project.
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After understanding what you’re trying to achieve, we’ll send a detailed and itemised same-day quote. Our pricing is honest and transparent, allowing you to quickly determine if we are the right fit for your project.
At your request, we’ll gladly quote for multiple configurations of your ideal stairs.
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After visiting your home to take the measurements we need, we draft and present fully accurate 3D renditions of what your staircase will look like in your home.
Once the details, timelines, and installation dates are locked in, we begin fabricating your dream staircase.
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That’s right: sit back knowing that our expert team of craftsmen is hard at work bringing your staircase to life, fabricating your dream stairs to our exacting standards.
Depending on the complexity of the design, this typically takes anywhere from 3 to 5 days.
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Our expert and experienced team of Staffordshire-based installers will install your new or renovated stairs in 2 to 4 days.
They have a wealth of experience in joinery and engineering, a seriously professional attitude towards work, and operate as unintrusively as possible.
First of all, they’re beautiful. When designed right and fabricated with care, central spine staircases can add a certain—and we’re really not trying to sound snobbish here— ‘touch of class’ to an indoor space. They’re sleek, appear to float in midair from certain angles, and can complement any aesthetic with the right detailing and finishes.
For some homeowners, central spine staircases are simply the logical choice. Homes with floor-to-ceiling glass walls, uninterrupted panoramic views, or custom-designed walls with specific features or materials all benefit from stairs that don’t need wall-mounted anchor points, ensuring that your feature walls remain features and don’t become fixtures.
In more compact homes, open central spine staircases with a smaller footprint help to save space while also allowing for maximum natural sunlight in the room.
Timelines vary based on the complexity of the design and your project scope, but we typically deliver from concept to installation within 6–12 weeks. You'll receive a tailored timeline during your consultation, along with 3D visuals and a full quote.
Yes. Every staircase is precision-manufactured in-house to exacting standards. We control every aspect of fabrication, welding, and finishing to ensure structural integrity and a flawless appearance—right down to the welds you’ll never see.
We do. Our black metal staircases can be finished in a range of sheens—from matte to satin to textured black. We can also colour-match or apply specialised treatments depending on your interior scheme and preferences.
Yes. Unlike timber or glass, powder-coated metal is typically easier and more cost-effective to repair. Surface touch-ups or re-coatings can restore the finish without requiring full replacement or extensive sanding.
Definitely. Metal offers superior strength in thinner structural profiles, allowing us to create slimline, cantilevered, or floating designs that maximise space without compromising on style or safety.
Yes. Our powder-coated black metal finishes are non-porous, fingerprint-resistant, and wipe-clean. They’re ideal for busy households or commercial spaces where longevity and low maintenance are key.
Extremely. All of our black metal staircases are made using high-grade steel and protected with ultra-tough powder coatings. They’re highly resistant to wear, scuffing, and daily use, and require minimal maintenance over the years.
Yes. In fact, black metal is one of the most flexible base materials for staircases. We often pair it with European white oak treads, glass balustrades, or concrete finishes for a dramatic contrast that elevates the overall aesthetic of the space.
When designed properly, no. Our black metal staircases often feature slim profiles, floating elements, or integrated glass to create a light, open feel—even in smaller or lower-lit areas. The bold colour can actually help define the space rather than overwhelm it.
Not at all. While they shine in industrial or contemporary interiors, black metal staircases are surprisingly versatile. We design them to work beautifully in minimalist new builds, character conversions, and even more traditional settings when paired with the right materials.
