At GBA, we’re always looking for innovative ways to blend form and function—and this latest installation showcases just that. For a new stairway and elevator enclosure leading to a second-floor dining area, we combined two of our trusted systems for the first time: Circle Redmont’s 81R CR Cast Iron and 82R Composite Cast Iron with Glass Bullet panels. The stair treads were fabricated from cast iron to maximize strength and long-term durability, while the surrounding walls utilized lighter composite castings for easier handling and installation without compromising visual impact.
This wasn’t a typical staircase. With three direction changes, a single central stringer, and tight elevation tolerances, the design demanded exacting precision. GBA collaborated closely with CR to develop a custom installation template that ensured every tread—each weighing 200 pounds—was anchored with pinpoint accuracy. Custom welded fins on the stringer locked the treads into place, maintaining consistent rise and run while aligning seamlessly with the finished second-floor elevation. Landings, weighing up to 1,000 pounds, were also installed with care, despite the added complexity of working around completed ceilings and walls.
The wall panels surrounding the elevator enclosure presented their own set of challenges. Clean vertical and horizontal joints, corner transitions, and elevator operator cutouts all required pre-planning and detailed execution. In addition, every element of the stair and wall assembly was designed to accommodate integrated backlighting—enhancing the architecture with depth and visual drama. This project highlights what GBA does best: solving complex design challenges with a focus on durability, precision, and architectural elegance.
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