SIGNIFICANCE OF STAIRS AND STAIRCASES IN ARCHITECTURE

Abstract

Stairwells were often among the most spectacular and generous spaces in multi- storey historic buildings. By contrast, in today's architecture, spaces that bridge the gap between building levels receive undeservedly little attention in design, often resulting in under-lit spaces that are difficult to use.
The main reason for this phenomenon is the tendency of building contractors to maximise profits by eliminating the floor area of the staircase from the useful, negotiable floor area. This study analyses several buildings in Győr from different periods in order to present staircases as architectural spaces.
By examining the architectural elements ofthe staircases, we try to draw attention to the architectural significance of these spaces and their important role in the spatial structure of buildings.