custom architectural woodworking:

All the images in our gallery depict completed custom stair projects created by Northern Sun Woodworks. The stairs and other architectural woodworking examples depicted in this section of our web site were all custom-designed and built for individual clients. Some examples were retrofitted into existing structures, while others were installed during the construction of new buildings. We can provide an entire staircase (including installation) to many locations in the US. We also provide the same individual components used in our own stairs--such as treads, balusters, railings, newel posts--as products you can purchase for use in your own projects.

My wife and I carefully fabricate each Northern Sun Woodworks custom project and all of our component products in our workshop. We work alone and employ no subcontractors. Larger shops have employee turn-around, and the quality of their craftsmanship depends on who happens to be working for the company at the time; but since we do all of our own work, our quality is consistently of the highest nature. We prefabricate, stain and clear-coat the entire project with state-of-the-art catalyzed finishes before it leaves our shop. We then deliver and install all parts, including trim, so that when we leave, the project is completed.

Staircase design and construction is a methodical process which, depending on the size and complexity of the project and our shop capacity at that time, can take about 6 months from first contact to installation. When designing stairs, the general shape--spiral, circular, 90 degree winder--and the numbers of landings required are usually the first consideration. Our designs often evolve from a single picture of an admired architectural element provided by a client. The process cannot be hurried, as our focus is always on craftsmanship and artistry. In the case of new construction, where access is required sooner, we can install temporary stairs while a new staircase is being fabricated.