Sometimes the modern look isn’t about picking one finish, it’s about the contrast between two. That’s the approach we took here, using a single wood species finished two different ways to give the staircase depth and dimension.

We manufactured and installed Hickory treads in a clear coat finish, letting the wood’s natural grain and color come through underfoot, while the posts and railings were stained dark for contrast overhead. Stainless steel cable ties the two tones together without adding visual weight, giving the whole staircase a modern, open effect from top to bottom.