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Our History 

About Video

Our Founder

Lake Shore Stair Company was founded by immigrant Jens Jensen who learned the complex craft of stair building while studying architecture and stair construction in his native country of Denmark.

Since 1932, Lake Shore Stair Company has been family owned and delivered thousands of quality stair, rail and custom woodwork projects. From design consultation through the manufacturing process and expert installation, every project, small or large, is performed with exacting detail. We are celebrating our fourth generation as a family owned company, dedicated to innovative designs that carry a classic legacy.

 

Our Story 

Historic Building

Using brick salvaged from the 1893 Chicago Worlds Fair, the iconic Libertyville, Illinois building located on the corner of E. Park and S. Fourth Avenue was constructed by the Jensen family in 1932. The building served as the company's fabrication shop and office until 2006, and is now Lake Shore Stair Company's showroom.  

Jens' Original Workshop

Despite a sizable 4,000 square foot of total floor space, every inch of the original workshop was needed for material storage, milling equipment, and assembly.

Young Apprentice

Circa 1950s, an early promotional photo shows second generation stair builder Pete Jensen installing a classic volute railing and newel post. 

Hand Crafted Curves

Circa 1940s, a massive hand built form is used to shape wood into a dynamic curved stairway. Shown here in the original workshop, the monumental 10' diameter form and stringer nearly fill half of the shops second floor.

Today

We are craftsman through and through. Lake Shore Stair Company has a rich history of building breathtaking stair cases and custom millwork that require the best talent in the area. With over 100 years of combined experience, we guarantee quality craftsmanship and service you can trust. Come visit us to see why Lake Shore Stair Company takes craftsmanship to the next level. 

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