MELBY Snekkerverksted has been producing wooden staircases for a number of years. It wanted to create a staircase which suited the current modern style of construction better.

Spill has glass rails, while the steps and risers are press moulded in laminated oak, beech, birch or walnut. The dimensions of each staircase are created according to each individual building.

Jury`s verdict

The use of moulded wood is a completely new way of creating a staircase. Using a special type of lamination makes it possible to incorporate the step and riser in the same section. This strengthens the staircase further and means that the technical support can be based on a single string in the centre of the staircase. This gives the staircase a totally new, open appearance compared to other staircases.

The undulating form of the steps creates associations with rivers and waterfalls. This is a new aesthetic element in keeping with modern architecture. The glass rail gives the product a distinct airiness, while the use of a central string projects a sophisticated purity. The contrast between the surface and the cut edge in the laminated steps creates an exciting look and a proper sense of precision. This staircase can be free-standing in a room and it looks good both from the back and the front.

Company: Melby Snekkerverksted AS

Project group company: Interiørarkitekt, Ingerd Husøy Høknes, Rav Design og Arkitektur - Daglig leder, Bjørn Melby, Melby

Design: Inventas Molde AS

Project group design company: Industridesigner, Synne Dragsund Litlere, Inventas - Industridesigner, Jonas Hallberg Eggen, Inventas

Award / year: Award for Design Excellence - 2009

Category: Industrial design