OAKWOOD
OAKWOOD
Created in direct collaboration with the client and A F Jones Stonemasons, Oakwood is a truly bespoke staircase that celebrates the relationship between architecture, craftsmanship and nature.
Thomas Brenton was commissioned to design and manufacture a unique bronze balustrade inspired by the recurring natural motifs found throughout the property. Each spindle was individually cast in solid bronze and features finely detailed acorns and oak leaves, creating a distinctive balustrade that feels both elegant and deeply connected to its surroundings.
The staircase and gallery walkways wrap around a spectacular indoor pool hall constructed from Jerusalem stone, with the warm tones of the bronze complementing the natural materials used throughout the building. Combined with a sleek solid bronze handrail, the result is a staircase that feels sculptural, timeless and completely unique to the home.
Bonze Casting
At the heart of this project is a collection of individually sand-cast bronze spindles, each crafted using traditional foundry techniques before being hand-finished in our workshop. The acorn and oak leaf details were developed specifically for this project, creating a level of individuality rarely found in modern staircase design.
The use of solid bronze (gunmetal) was a deliberate choice, not only for its exceptional beauty but also for its outstanding durability. Bronze performs exceptionally well in humid and challenging environments, making it the ideal material for a staircase overlooking an indoor swimming pool.
Over time, the interaction between the bronze, moisture and atmosphere allows the metal to develop a rich natural patina, ensuring every spindle acquires its own unique character while preserving the integrity of the original design.
A Staircase Inspired by Nature
The design draws inspiration from the oak tree, with acorns symbolising strength, longevity and growth. These natural elements are repeated throughout the balustrade, creating a subtle narrative that connects the architecture, stonework and surrounding landscape.
Working closely with A F Jones Stonemasons, every element of the bronze balustrade was carefully integrated with the Jerusalem stone staircase, ensuring the metalwork appeared as though it had always been part of the architecture. The result is a seamless fusion of natural materials, traditional craftsmanship and bespoke design.
Built for a Demanding Environment
The pool hall presented a unique challenge, requiring materials capable of withstanding constant humidity while maintaining their appearance for generations. The solid bronze balustrade and handrail provided the perfect solution, offering outstanding corrosion resistance and minimal maintenance requirements.
Today, the staircase stands as a centrepiece of the home, demonstrating how bespoke metalwork can combine beauty, practicality and craftsmanship in equal measure.