The Contender Staircase is Zakuna’s most celebrated staircase design, previously winning the Build It Awards for Best Joinery Product. This award-winning Central String Staircase features a sculptural single spine that runs beneath the treads, creating a stunning visual impression of lightness and space.
The self-supporting structure eliminates the need for newel posts, making it the perfect choice for open-plan interiors where clean lines and unobstructed views are paramount. Available in steel or timber, with a broad palette of RAL colours, stainless steel, or specialist finishes, the Contender’s striking engineering allows for kites, winders, and helical configurations. Glass balustrades complement the minimal aesthetic, while concealed fixings maintain the sculptural purity of the design. An integrated LED lighting option can be incorporated within the central string, adding a layer of sophisticated ambiance to your interior.
Beyond its visual drama, the Contender Staircase is engineered for exceptional performance. The central string design offers excellent spatial flow beneath the staircase, maximising light and creating a sense of openness — ideal for properties where every square metre matters.
All Zakuna Contender Staircases comply fully with UK building regulations and are engineered to the highest structural standards. We offer extensive bespoke customisation: tread materials in timber, glass, or solid surface; balustrade options in glass, with spindles or railings, or contemporary alternatives; and colour/finish variations to suit any design scheme. Our installation network ensures seamless fitting and post-installation support wherever your project is located. Explore our Staircase Showcases to see the Contender Staircase installed in projects in southern England and the South East.





