Staircases

Staircases

Stairs, lifts and accesses are vital elements of building design - functional above all with safety and style in mind.

In order to achieve those attributes, the staircase must follow a number of rules. Firstly, it needs to comply with the local building codes and requirements in New Zealand. Secondly, it needs to ensure easy access from one level to another. Last but not least, the design that makes a staircase unique and attractive should also blend in with the rest of the home or building interior.  

Types of staircases

Straight staircase

The simplest and most affordable staircase design is usually straight, however, it does require a lot of space. They can be built from scratch or bought prefabricated in ready-to-connect sections. Stretching up with no changes in direction with top and bottom fastening, straight flights are among the easiest to install. 

Wooden staircases of this type are the most common in New Zealand but they can be made from different materials, in a variety of styles, sizes, and finishes. Depending on the range, they can also feature a central landing for more comfortable use.

U-Shaped (180-degree) staircase

A U-shaped staircase is a straight design with a twist. Divided by a landing, the structure changes direction, bending at the 180-degree angle left or right. The landing is typically positioned in the middle, but it’s not the rule.      

U-shaped stairs are easier to fit in a variety of architectural plans than straight ones. The bending also enhances the dynamics of the object, adding more architectural interest. 

L-shaped (90-degree) staircase

This type is similar to U-shaped, except that it bends at a 90-degree angle with a landing as the transition point. L-shaped staircases are visually interesting, more adaptable and space-savvy than straight ones. 

Circular staircase

This staircase continually bends from bottom to top in a broad curve. Its elegance and attractiveness make it a popular choice for classy residences and villas in New Zealand with prominent entry halls. They can also come prefabricated, however, their installation requires professional work and supervising.  

Spiral staircase

Spiral designs are available in two essential varieties - with a centre pole that holds the steps, or a helix-style spiral that follows the shape twist of the space. 

This is a popular design in New Zealand and is durable and economical, available in prefabricated and knock-down kits. Many manufacturers allow the customers to fully customise the design in order to make a perfect fit with the rest of the interior.

Floating stairs

Floating stairs appear to be unsupported in mid-air, creating a dramatic visual impact. With hidden structural support, they offer a minimalist aesthetic and durable construction suitable for modern homes. However, its custom fabrication and installation may result in higher costs.

Materials

The material of the staircases, from stair treads to balustrades and handrails, can define their style and purpose, highlighting the aesthetics of the space as a whole. It also affects other factors, such as application, maintenance levels, safety, and comfort.

Wooden Stairs

Wood stairs are timeless, suitable for a range of styles. Genuine timber stairs are solid, attractive, and easy to combine with other materials. A range of timbers are available in New Zealand with wooden stairs giving you different visual aesthetics to consider.

Steel Stairs

Metal stairs often bear a distinctive industrial flair, however, they can also be found in traditional ornate forms, best represented in wrought iron designs. They act as a real focal point. 

Glass stairs

Glass versions can have a significant impact on light levels inside the object. This material features a specific, strong aesthetic appeal, often enhanced by metal structural support. It also works excellently with modern minimalist design schemes.

Concrete stairs

Concrete is a heavy-duty choice, often used as a practical solution in public buildings. Still, modern interior designers are increasingly using them in residential applications. Using elegant polished precast spiral designs can convey an authentic minimalist, industrial look.