INTERIORS
ake the rst step
A staircase can be far more than a way of connecting storeys. Tom Blakeman of Winthill Engineering explains what makes a successful staircase and considers practical and aesthetic factors.
I
nvesting in a custom-designed staircase which suits your needs and your home’s architecture can really transform a space. With planning and consideration, it can infl uence the overall style of the property and how you move through it on a daily basis. Traditionally, a staircase is often the fi rst thing visitors see when walking through the front door, more so in modern open plan homes as they’re often a focal point within the fl oorplan. hile serving a practical purpose, a staircase can also be an impressive design feature.
STAIRCASE DESIGN
Straight, L-shaped and U-shaped are classic staircase designs which suit most spaces, often with the ability to add extra storage underneath. Cantilevered, helical, spiral and curved staircases meanwhile, add drama and work well in high-ceilinged spaces. A staircase is an investment so should be designed for the long-term and not follow a trend. Stick to what you like. Style, materials and proportions are key – they should complement your home’s architecture. Then, over time, and depending on the materials used, certain elements can be redecorated or upgraded to suit interior decor. Ultimately though, a staircase should be easy to access and lead you into your home – guiding you through the ground fl oor, and to those above.
MATERIALS & FINISH Timber, steel, glass, concrete, stone, and recycled materials are all popular choices for staircases. ach has its benefi ts – including longevity, texture, warmth, low maintenance, or eco-friendly. Steel, for example, is long-lasting and a great choice for those wanting an industrial or modern staircase design. It can also be combined with new or recycled timbers for warmth and texture, and glass for a distinctive contrast, making it suitable for most properties.
The right choice of material can also help maximise the potential of tight
spaces and limited light. Use slimmer and smaller details in a tight space such as a smaller newel post – or lose it altogether, with thin spindles and a sleek handrail. Consider thin materials such as steel and glass which won’t overpower a compact area. Glass and steel also work well in darker spaces, the latter can be laser cut or punched so light can fi lter through.
ENGAGE WITH YOUR SUPPLIER AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE
Early engagement is particularly important if you are planning a more complex staircase. antilevered, fl oating and open plan staircases all require structural support which, to achieve the look, must be hidden, usually in the wall and fl oor. This should be factored into the build programme from the outset, to allow for preparation and integration. This will help avoid any costly mistakes and delays. If you are considering
underfl oor heating for example, be aware that this cannot be drilled into once laid so it would not be possible to hide, or perhaps, fi t the staircase support.
MAKE SURE YOUR STAIRCASE COMPLIES WITH PART K Your new or improved staircase must comply with Part K so be sure to consult this before changing an existing staircase, or if it’s new, make sure it meets these requirements. The Approved Document K covers
protection from falling, collision and impact and offers guidance on designing a staircase, such as steepness of stairs, minimum head room between levels, width and length of fl ights of stairs and landings for stairs. There are specifi c instructions for special stairs – alternating tread stairs, spiral and helical stairs, and tapered treads. To maximise staircase design potential
37
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52
