Innovative Steel Stairwell Design: A Modern Architectural Statement

1. CATEGORY #23 Fixtures- Items that are permanently installed (such as built-in cabinetry, stair, railings, lighting fixtures)

2. Design Statement Category #23 The design objective was to create an architectural feature to replace the typical stairwell while respecting budget restrictions. A 26 foot tall blade of ½” hot rolled steel that intersects all three stories unifies the stairwell, changing the once typical and visually cluttered to a dynamic statement. Water jetted horizontal slots allow the simple use of negative space to create interesting an pattern and repetition while allowing light to travel in the stairwell. It also provides stair climbers a visual peak to the space ahead. Care was given in the rhythm created by the design by creating enough variation for interest while having consistency in a horizontal repeat for restful simplicity. By using only steel implemented cleverly no other additional adornment is necessary. This enables thebudget requirements to be met while keeping a modern aesthetic. Simple linear handrails were moved to the outer wall satisfying code requirements and allowing the metal art piece to stay visually clean and uncluttered.

3. Represented in this photo are the top two stories of the twenty six foot blade that intersects four flights of stairs.

4. The only adornment to the blade is the use of the negative space created by the water jetted slots in the half inch steel.

5. A four inch space is maintained between the steps and blade to highlight the focal point while meeting code requirements. The simplistic hand rails are mounted on the opposite walls.

6. Careful consideration was given to the pattern created by the slots, adding enough visual rhythm without becoming too scattered or cluttered.

7. Floor plan

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