When staircases come to mind, many people envision them in large houses. However, staircases are commonly found in small duplexes, lofts, and compact stacked houses.
So, what guidelines should be followed for designing staircases in small spaces? How can the highest utilization be achieved in design?
In a limited space, the arrangement becomes significantly important.
1. Avoid placing staircases in the center.
When planning the layout of staircases, it's advisable not to position them at the center of the house. In smaller homes, installing staircases in the core area can visually divide the house and create potential "obstacles" in both sightlines and functionality.
2. Principle of Leaning to the Side
As a general rule, it's space-efficient to position staircases close to a wall or in a corner. This approach optimizes the interior, freeing up the largest possible area for daily use.
3. Avoid Facing the Entry Door
Even in compact layouts, it's recommended to prevent a situation where the staircase is immediately visible upon entering through the front door. This not only creates a visually oppressive effect but can also compromise privacy.
4. Careful Placement to Avoid Load-Bearing Beams
When situating staircases, it's important to steer clear of load-bearing beams. Due to height limitations, staircases positioned in proximity to such beams can lead to awkward headroom issues while ascending and descending.
Staircase Designs for Small Spaces
1. Central Column Spiral Staircase: Stylish and Space-Efficient
The central column spiral staircase ascends vertically, occupying minimal space. It's an excellent fit for smaller areas. Materials like glass, wood, marble, aluminum veneer, and plastic steel can be used for treads, balustrades, and handrails to match various styles.
2. Straight Staircase: Efficient Use of Downstairs Space
While a linear staircase requires a certain length, it's a good choice for small spaces due to its optimal use of the downstairs area. Unlike a spiral staircase, the linear design ensures a smooth and uninterrupted visual flow.
3. Folding Staircase: Enhancing Flexibility
When linear staircases are impractical, a folding staircase can be a viable option. These staircases incorporate corners, making them more compact than straight variants. The design of the corner should be tailored to the available space, offering diverse contours while optimizing the downstairs space.
Irrespective of the staircase shape, anti-slip treatments should be applied where needed. Adding 2-3 grooves or anti-slip strips at the edge of each tread can enhance safety. Materials like emery, rubber strips, plastic strips, and metal strips are commonly used, making them especially suitable for households with elderly individuals and children.
Due to space limitations, innovative staircase designs have flourished. These designs are highly creative in both concept and style, all while prioritizing practicality. However, certain dimensions are non-negotiable even in small spaces.
1. Stair Treads: Width ranging from 27-30cm, with a height of around 17.5cm or less. Approximately 15cm is ideal.
2. Staircase Slope: Generally between 20° and 45°, with 30° being optimal. For households with seniors or children, a slope of 14°-27° is advisable.
Given the restricted room, staircases and the space beneath them can be creatively utilized for storage purposes. Incorporating storage into staircase design becomes a fundamental element. Moreover, if the area beneath the staircases can be transformed into a functional space, it serves as an extra bonus.
When designing a staircase, factors like style, comfort while ascending and descending, safety measures, and additional features all demand meticulous consideration during the design phase. Ultimately, a well-thought-out staircase design enhances both the functionality and aesthetics of small living spaces.
