Staircase configurator

Manufacturing and selling staircases is one of the most complex processes in the furniture and construction industries. Custom dimensions, safety requirements, and complex geometry make verbal consultations and static diagrams ineffective at the decision-making stage. This is precisely the problem addressed by the development of a 2D/3D staircase configurator — an online tool that combines configuration selection, visualization, and parameter calculation in a single interface. This allows customers to specify dimensions, select the design type, and immediately see the final result.

For businesses, this means fewer manual approvals and recalculations, more targeted orders, and accurate specifications ready for production. The configurator takes into account safety and geometric constraints, integrates seamlessly into the website, and functions as a fully-fledged sales tool, available to clients 24/7.

What is a 2D/3D stair builder and how does it work?

An online staircase configurator is a web-based tool that allows clients to visually select a staircase to suit specific conditions and requirements. It's important to understand that a configurator isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. Depending on your business needs, it can include a variety of features, from simple visual configuration to complex logic with calculations and constraints .

The configurator's functionality is selected individually and may include:

• setting the basic parameters of the staircase (height, opening, dimensions);
• selection of design type and shape;
• customization of materials, colors and design elements;
• visualization of the result with instant display of all changes;
• generating an application and transferring parameters to the manager;
• cost calculation and specifications - if necessary.

The configurator can be implemented in either 3D, with full three-dimensional visualization, or in 2D, based on diagrams, renderings, or photographs. In the 2D version, the user changes colors, materials, and elements (railings, balusters, and other details), and all changes are immediately reflected in the image.

This approach allows you to choose the optimal configurator format for your budget, product range, and sales scenarios, without overloading the product with unnecessary functionality and maintaining customer convenience.

Both the 2D and 3D configurators work directly in the browser on computers, tablets, and smartphones. No additional software installation is required. Visualizations are updated instantly using modern 3D and 2D graphics technologies.

For the client, this is a clear and intuitive process. For the business, it's structured requests with pre-defined parameters that can be immediately passed on to a manager or engineer.

What business problems does a staircase configurator solve?

The implementation of an interactive designer allows for a more transparent and manageable sales process, especially in the custom-made product niche.

• Shortens the sales cycle by reducing the number of consultations, clarifications, and re-approvals. The client immediately works with a clear visual model.
• Improves lead quality — users come with predefined parameters and a clear understanding of the outcome, rather than an abstract request.
• Reduces the workload of engineers and managers by eliminating routine calculations and initial estimates from manual work.
• Reduces errors and recalculations through automatic checking of dimensions, geometry, and acceptable limits.
• Increases conversion and average order value through a clear selection of additional options, materials, and components.
• Standardizes product range and technical limitations while maintaining flexibility for individual projects.
• Allows you to sell effectively remotely without the need for a physical showroom or in-person consultations.

As a result, the company gains a more predictable, scalable and controllable sales process with lower operating costs.

2D and 3D Staircase configurator features

The staircase configurator's functionality is designed taking into account the customer's actual production processes and product range. At Avada Media, we develop custom solutions tailored to specific staircase types, materials, calculation rules, and sales scenarios.

Depending on the business objectives, the configurator can be implemented in 2D or 3D format. These formats complement each other and allow for an optimal user experience—from quick visual selection to detailed project development.

2D configurator capabilities

2D configurator is focused on quick visual selection and customer convenience. It's suitable for standard models and situations where appearance and configuration are important without complex calculations.

2D format functionality:

• selection of a basic staircase model from the catalogue;
• change of colors, materials and finishing options;
• customization of individual elements: railings, balusters, handrails;
• instant display of all changes in the image or visualization;
• Formation of an application with the selected configuration.

2D configurator is easy for users to understand and is often used as the first step in interacting with the product.

3D configurator capabilities

3D configurator is designed for more detailed design development and takes into account geometry, dimensions, and design constraints. It is especially suitable for custom and complex staircases.

1) Types of stairs

Support for various designs allows us to cover both standard and custom projects:

• straight;
• L-shaped;
• U-shaped;
• with a platform;
• with winder steps.

2) Geometry and parameters

Flexible size adjustments taking into account technical and safety restrictions:

• floor height;
• width of the flight;
• length and size of the opening;
• number of steps;
• the angle of inclination is within acceptable limits;
• depth and height of the step.

The system automatically checks the correctness of the entered parameters and excludes invalid configurations.

3) Materials and appearance

Customizing the design to suit the customer's catalog and brand:

• wood, metal, glass, combined solutions;
• colors and textures;
• finishing options (varnish, oil, powder coating).

4) Railings and fences

Configuration of security and appearance elements:

• type of fencing (posts, glass, metal);
• handrails and decorative elements;
• mounting and execution options.

5) Options and equipment

Additional parameters affecting the final cost and functionality:

• risers;
• step lighting (if necessary);
• reinforced elements and fasteners.

6) Commerce and production

Sales automation and data preparation tools:

• cost calculation according to specified formulas;
• formation of the specification (BOM);
• transfer of the project to the manager with parameters and visualization.

7) Integrations

Connecting the configurator to the company's digital ecosystem:

• website integration;
• CRM and ERP connection;
• Automatic transfer of requests, parameters and configurations.

This approach allows the 3D configurator to be used not only as a visual tool, but also as a fully-fledged part of the sales and production system.

Technologies and approach to development

When developing staircase designs, we utilize modern web technologies and select the solution format — 2D, 3D, or a combination of both — based on the specific project's objectives. For 3D visualization, we use WebGL and Three.js based technologies or comparable tools.

2D functionality is implemented using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript and can be used both in standalone 2D configurators and within 3D solutions. This allows for the creation of lightweight and fast interfaces where changes to colors, materials, and elements are immediately reflected in diagrams, images, or visualizations.

The technical approach is built around stability, speed and accuracy of calculations :

• fast loading and smooth operation even with complex configurations;
• correct display on computers, tablets and smartphones;
• the ability to easily add new staircase types, materials and options as the product range grows;
• stable operation with an increase in the number of users and applications;
• Automatic verification of dimensions and parameters taking into account technical and safety requirements.

We design the system with long-term development in mind. The system is easily expandable: new staircase types, materials, options, and integrations can be added, and additional sales channels, including corporate and dealer solutions, can be connected if needed.

Stages of developing a 3D staircase configurator

At Avada Media, 3D staircase configurator development is based on a phased and transparent model. This approach allows us to monitor deadlines, quality of implementation, and the solution's alignment with the client's actual business objectives.

1. Analysis and problem definition. We review the product catalog, ladder types, calculation rules, safety restrictions, and current business processes. At this stage, the technical specifications and architecture of the future solution are developed.
2. UX and configuration logic design. We develop user scenarios, interface structure, and interaction logic. The main goal is to make the configuration process clear for the client and convenient for the business.
3. Preparing 3D models/SVG images and materials. We create and optimize 3D geometry, textures, and materials to ensure stable browser operation without loss of visual quality. For 2D configurators, we prepare and adapt SVG images, diagrams, and graphic elements that allow for quick and clear changes to colors, materials, and individual stair components.
4. Logic development and implementation. We configure parameters, constraints, calculation formulas, and visualization. The configurator is adaptable to real-world production and technical requirements.
5. Integrations and testing. We connect your website, CRM, export specifications, and test stability across various devices and usage scenarios.
6. Launch and support. We assist with implementation, team training, and further product development, including expanding the product catalog and functionality.

Cost of developing staircase configurator

The cost depends on the format (2D or 3D), the number of staircase types, the complexity of the calculation formulas, and the level of visualization and integration. Below are guidelines for initial budget planning.

The prices listed are approximate. The final cost will be calculated after reviewing the project and technical requirements.

Business value of the solution

2D and 3D staircase configurator combine sales, design, and automation in a single tool. They simplify the customer's selection process, shorten the sales cycle, and improve the quality of inquiries through predefined parameters and visualization of the result.

For businesses, this means fewer manual approvals and errors, a reduced workload for managers and engineers, and a more predictable and scalable sales process. The configurator is easily expanded with new models, materials, and integrations and can be enhanced with advanced visualization or VR/AR features as needed.

Avada Media develops scalable 2D and 3D configurators that can be easily expanded with new models, materials, and integrations. If needed, these configurators can be enhanced with advanced visualization, as well as VR/AR functionality for presentations and complex projects. Explore and test our demo configurator to experience their capabilities firsthand.

We'll discuss your needs and offer the optimal stair configurator format for your catalog, production, and sales scenarios.