Our History
In 1978 Shawn Christman founded Seattle Stair & Design in an historic industrial building in South Seattle. The firm grew into a thriving business, built a name for itself creating luxury stairs up and down the west coast.
Over the next three decades, Shawn and his team have moved beyond the classic wood stair, continuing to expand and perfect their art. They’ve mastered the sensuous geometry of a compound curve that allows a handrail to descend with sweeping grace.
Their top-down stair design process makes it possible to build curves so graceful they appear to be organic. They’ve integrated computers and precision fabrication techniques, become proficient with wood, steel, glass, acrylics and emerging green materials.
In 2001 Shawn set off for Europe in search of the Compagnons, the elite guild of woodworkers who built the great cathedrals and chateaux of France. He discovered a tradition that was very much alive. A partnership was born, and as a result Compagnons craftspeople now work side by side with the Seattle Stair team.
In 2001, Seattle Stair & Design moved into a new 10,000 square foot studio and showroom in South Seattle.
Now renowned across North America, the company boasts a world-class clientele. Their intelligent staircase construction process makes life easier for owners and builders.
Their artisan staircases are integral to some of the finest homes and retail destinations on earth, from Hawaiian waterfront estates to chic downtown department stores; from Tokyo penthouses to luxury resorts.
“You and your craftsmen do superior work. You are also a pleasure to work with.
“If I had more complicated, beautiful stair cases to build we’d hire you over and over!”
Jan and Phil Condit

Frmr. President The Boeing Co.