When listing the key elements of an architectural style, the staircase is usually one of the first vital parts to be mentioned. The staircase in a building not only allows for vertical circulation but also serves as an important indicator of the overall architecture of the space. The placement of a staircase in the design of a new structure is always a critical decision, as it frequently influences the layout of the entire property.
Stairs may lend a sense of grandeur to a building’s entry, they can serve as a multifunctional area for storage, and entire facilities made up entirely of stairwells provide the best experiences, such as open-air theatres.
Stairwells are amusing when compared to other areas of a house. They are essentially vertical circulation corridors, though they are frequently integrated into other spaces, either physically open to them or occupying a portion of one to connect below and upwards.
The main aim of stairways is to give a quick and convenient way to move between levels. Houses and shelters had only one story in ancient times, but it was realized that the space above ground level could be used to expand the amount of space a construction could provide. Stairs allowed users to rapidly and easily access the upper levels of these buildings. As the buildings grew, the staircase became increasingly vital. With the construction of stairlifts and ramps, staircases may now be made even more accessible to persons of all physical abilities.
Traditionally, staircases were made of wood, stone, or marble, as well as iron or steel. Steel and reinforced concrete have allowed for daring curves and fantastic sweeps that can be important features in contemporary design.
Alternative Staircase Uses
A staircase’s structure can be used as a partition to divide a huge open-plan area, a home’s sculptural centerpiece, or even as an innovative storage option in modern buildings. Cupboards can be put beneath them, and the risers can be modified to store bookshelves and drawers.
Spiral staircases were once employed to aid in the defense of constructions such as castles hundreds of years ago. Because most swordsmen were right-handed, assailants ascending the clockwise-oriented staircases would have had little room to wield their swords due to the wall’s curve. Those defending would normally be descending the steps, making it easier for them to move around. The spiral staircase is now useful in a different way: the head of the steps lies vertically above the foot, taking up minimal floor space.
While large, magnificent, carved-oak stairs are no longer popular, cheap, or practical, many people throughout history have used this particular household feature to grab the attention of guests and visitors when they arrive, displaying their riches and position through the luxury of its design. Even today, when guests enter a house’s hallway, the staircase is typically the first thing they notice, and many people like to take advantage of its possibilities to give their home a trendy and attractive vibe.
Many people throughout history have used staircases as a prominent household feature to wow guests and visitors when they arrived, displaying their riches and position through the luxury of its design. Even today, when guests enter a house’s hallway, the staircase is typically the first thing they notice, and many people like to take advantage of its possibilities to give their home a trendy and attractive vibe.
Ways to upgrade your staircase and enhance the space-
Add Lighting
Lighting is essential in any area, and nothing is more dreadful than a dimly lit stairwell. Allow a sculptural light fixture to serve a dual purpose in the stairwell, lighting the room while also acting as a utilitarian piece of art that draws the eye upwards.
Railing Design
A new stair railing, whether it’s a simple handrail or a paneled railing, may change a step. While replacing a whole guardrail or railing can be a huge job, simply a fresh coat of paint or new hardware can make a big difference.
Aesthetic Riser
Most people focus on the treads of a stair, which are the horizontal steps, but the risers (the vertical component of a stair) can have an even greater visual impact. On the treads, don’t be afraid to use strong patterns, colors, or unique materials like tile or wallpaper, which will seem different depending on the angle from which they’re seen.
Stairs and Biophilia
Plants can breathe new life into any place, including a stairwell with little natural light. Plants are known to provide numerous health benefits, including the absorption of hazardous pollutants in the air and the production of extra oxygen. They also lift your spirits, making the ascent and descent of the stairwell a little easier.
Addition of Art
Art on any wall adds individuality to a place, making it feel more resided and thoughtful, but the artwork in a staircase is especially important because it can be seen from multiple rooms and levels in a home. Consider exhibiting the artwork in a prominent location, such as on a stair landing or staggered as you ascend or descend.
References –
www.pearstairs.co.uk. (n.d.). Why We Need Staircases. [online] Available at: https://www.pearstairs.co.uk/blog/why-we-need-stairs/.
Reggev, K. (2018). 7 Simple Ways to Upgrade a Boring Staircase. [online] Dwell. Available at: https://www.dwell.com/article/modern-stairs-staircase-design-ideas-2cb69a02.
[Accessed 25 Sep. 2021].
Wikipedia Contributors (2019). Stairs. [online] Wikipedia. Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stairs.
