Case Study: Safer Stairs and Smarter Storage for a Growing Family

This young couple in Market Harborough had a beautiful open staircase but with a baby on the way, safety was suddenly top of the priority list. They needed a solution that would make their home safer without compromising on the style and open feel they loved.

• The existing staircase was open on one side, with gaps that would pose a risk to a crawling baby or toddler.
• The layout didn’t include any practical storage beneath the stairs, despite having plenty of unused space.
• The clients wanted a finish that felt considered and high-quality, even if the would be painted at a later date.

We designed a custom timber staircase enclosure that would completely close the open side, using solid joinery and clean, modern lines. The structure now provides:

• Added safety and peace of mind for the growing family
• A more defined, finished look that suits the property’s aesthetic

Alongside the staircase work, we soon realised that the house was still going to lack ample storage solutions for the upcoming changes in the family, so we discussed the use of the space underneath the staircase to store their pram and other baby essentials. In a busy home, every bit of hidden storage counts. After our chat, we went on to build a bespoke understairs cupboard with a wide-opening door; sized specifically to fit the pram. The unit also includes additional shelf space for shoes, bags and baby gear.

This project is a great example of how thoughtful carpentry can make a home safer, calmer and more functional especially for families preparing for new arrivals.

Even though the understairs unit hasn’t been painted yet, the raw finish still looks neat and purposeful. It’s designed to be painted later as the rest of the hallway evolves.

The staircase is now completely secure, the hallway feels more finished. Everything has its place and there’s room for more life!

Whether it’s safety upgrades, hidden storage or making awkward spaces work harder, we’d love to help. Get in touch to chat about your home.