Choosing the Right Timber for Your Custom Staircase: Australian Hardwood Options

Choosing the right material is one of the most important decisions when designing or renovating a staircase. Timber remains the preferred choice for many Australian homes because of its natural beauty, warmth and versatility. At Southern Stairs we have been designing and manufacturing timber stairs for over 40 years, and Australian hardwood has always been at the heart of our work.

Why Australian Hardwood?

Australian hardwoods such as Spotted Gum, Blackbutt, Jarrah and Tasmanian Oak offer exceptional hardness, durability and distinctive grain patterns. They stand up well to everyday traffic, resist wear and tear, and age gracefully with a rich patina. Because they are locally sourced, they also suit Australian conditions and complement both contemporary and classic interiors.

Spotted Gum is particularly popular for its striking figure and high strength, making it ideal for both treads and handrails. Blackbutt provides a lighter, more uniform look that works beautifully in modern open-plan homes, while Jarrah delivers a deep, rich colour that suits traditional or heritage-style staircases.

Open Riser or Closed Riser?

The choice of timber also influences the overall design. Open-riser stairs create a sense of lightness and allow natural light to flow through the space – perfect for smaller homes or terrace houses. Closed-riser designs add solidity, improve safety for young children and can incorporate practical features such as under-stair storage or a wine rack.

Southern Stairs can manufacture both styles using the same premium Australian hardwoods, finished to your preference (oil, stain or clear coat). Our experienced team will help you select the species and finish that best matches your home’s style and budget.

Custom Design That Fits Your Home

No two homes are the same. That’s why we create custom staircases rather than off-the-shelf solutions. Whether you need a straight flight, quarter-turn, half-turn or a complex design for a difficult space, we engineer each staircase for strength, safety and aesthetics. All our stairs are built to Australian standards (including AS1657 where applicable) and finished to a high standard in our workshop.

Visit one of our showrooms in Kirrawee or Dee Why to see the range of Australian hardwoods and completed projects in person. Our friendly staff can talk you through the options and arrange a free measure and quote, including a 3D design so you can visualise the finished staircase before we start.

Ready to Design Your Staircase?

Use our intuitive online Staircase Configurator to explore shapes, timbers and balustrade styles. Once you’ve configured your preferred design, submit your details and we’ll prepare an indicative quotation. Or simply call us on 02 9542 1344 to speak with a specialist.

Southern Stairs has become synonymous with consistency, quality and style. Let us help you create a staircase that not only functions perfectly but also becomes a lasting feature of your home.