Luxury for less...

With the project running over budget, some high-spec features had to be reconsidered, including the staircase, which was originally specified in a floating oak tread configuration. Keen to achieve a similarly impressive look for less money, Simon consulted with his joiner, who recommended that he source sleepers in regular softwood instead. ey were able to get two or three treads from every sleeper, which cost just £15 each. To create a unique distressed effect, the joiner stained the timber using a variety of processes – including using tea bags. Combined with the glass balustrade and steel fixings, the sleepers have been transformed into the heart of a stunning industrial-effect staircase at a fraction of the cost of using oak treads.