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Open risers

Using no risers on stairs, as seen here, creates an airer feeling and interesting views. Be aware that some people, especially those afraid of heights or unaccustomed to such stairs, find this uncomfortable. This feeling of discomfort can be lessened by reducing the open space between treads. Such stairs can also be more dangerous in the case of a fall, where a limb could become caught between treads. If you click to enlarge this image, you will see that the treads of these stairs are made of a rough perforated metal, making them very un-slippery.


Anti-slip strips

Stairs are where people are most commonly injured in buildings, sometimes seriously. In addition to providing sturdy railings, anti-slip strips on steps can help prevent falls. This is especially important on stairs with slippery surfaces, as these terrazzo steps could be, particularly if they are wet.

Note that building codes typically stipulate minimum requirements for safety on stairs. However, one should always evaluate how stairs are going to be used, by whom, and under want circumstances, and consider whether additional saftey measures should be implemented beyond those required by the building code.

Note the variety of different stair treatments on the exterior steps of these homes.


Bike Rail

These exterior stairs feature a bike rail to make it easy for cyclists to walk their bicycles up or down the steps.

Here is another example of a bike rail.


Stairs integrated with window seat

The stairs in this home are made to be not just a place to quickly pass when getting from one level to another. Instead, the window seat and adjacent bookcase make the area of these stairs a place to linger.


Stairs connected to circulation routes

Note how the central staircase in Le Corbusier's Villa Savoye is directly connected to many circulation routes in every direction.


Alternative to stairs: Escalator

Moving stairs are a common alternative to an ordinary stairway, especially in public spaces where a large number of people are moving. They provide many advantages; they allow people to move more quickly, allow those who cannot easily climb stairs to move from one level to another without waiting for an elevator. Unlike an elevator, in the event of a power failure or mechanical problem, they continue to be functional as ordinary stairs.


Another alternative: Ramps

Ramps generally take more space than stairs, but offer their own advantages. The most common reason for using ramps is to provide wheelchair accessibility. (In this case, they must not be sloped too steeply.) They also offer the advantage of a slower, more subtle transition from one level to another, which is why Le Corbusier chose to use a ramp here.


Alternative to stairs: Ladder

Another alternative to stairs is the ladder. Ladders offer the advantage of occupying very little space. They are also generally less expensive to construct. They are often used for utility / service access, for example to an attic or the roof of a building.

However, they can also be put to good use in other applications, such as in this residence. Here, not only does the ladder save space, but it slows one down in accessing this loft-like retreat space. As a result, it makes the retreat seem even more protected, harkening back to childhood bunk beds.

Note that building codes often stipulate when and how ladders may or may not be used in place of stairs.