According to a common legend, animals planted the idea of creating stairs. Goat paths that had impromptu steps became the prototype of this design. The oldest staircase was found in a salt mine. It was made of wood, but retained its appearance due to the "preserving" effect of salt. The first technical requirements for the stairs were the ancient Egyptians. Their letters speak of the savvy architects of those times. Stairs in the interior of Egyptian houses were rarely decorated. They were given sacred meaning in the pyramids. Indeed, in fact, this man-made burial mound symbolized the four-way road to heaven to the god Ra. Even now, in buildings with more than one floor, you can’t do without a staircase. Over time, they began to be replaced with more convenient elevators, but in each house there is still an “outdated” option as an alternative.
This feature provides a vertical connection between floors. The design of the stairs in the Middle Ages became more complicated. Those on the street were decorated with carvings and weaving plants, which made them an important element of the exterior of the house. More and more complex shapes were given to the internal stairs, and the railings and balusters were made of metal with intricate forged patterns. Now this element emphasizes the stylistic decision of home design. Let's talk about the types of stairs and the materials from which they are made.
Despite the large number of types and models of stairs, the basic set of each includes the same elements:
Steps. The horizontal surfaces on which a person steps during the descent / ascent.
Bowstrings and kosour. The main supporting parts, which are usually located on the sides of the steps.
Fencing. They are represented by railings, balusters, racks and handrails along the adjacent wall.
Beams, pins and columns. These are the vertical support legs.
According to the types of structures, stairs are divided into three main types:
Screw. They are a twisting spiral and are installed in rooms where there is little space. Everyone saw examples of spiral staircases in historical films, where the ascents to the high towers of old palaces were demonstrated.
Boltsevye. In the design of such stairs, a frame from the fastener for each individual step and stacked racks are used. The main load is transferred to the ceiling and floor.
Marching.The most common option, which uses either kosour (closed models) or bowstrings (open models).
The latter type, in turn, is classified into subspecies depending on the shape of the stairs:
Direct. The most primitive option is when the element has no turns and takes up a lot of space.
L-shaped or simple two-level. In them two marches (sections of the stairs) are placed in relation to each other at an angle of 90 degrees.
U-shaped. A more complex design involves the presence of two parallel marches, between which there is either an inter-tier or a floor platform (span)
Rounded or radial. The design is vaguely reminiscent of a spiral staircase, and the number of turns is not limited, but the exit from the march in the direction should coincide with the entrance.
Three sections. A sophisticated model, which is a double L-shaped staircase.
Trapezoidal. The most intricate option that has no restrictions on the choice of angle between marches. This creative model is ideal for rooms of non-standard forms, as it can be customized for them.
By the way, there is a separate category of stairs - combined. It combines various models. Typically, the need for such complex elements arises in rooms of irregular shapes.
How to design a staircase
Stairs are needed not only to owners of country houses, but also to owners of two-story apartments. Even from the street, a small ladder usually leads to the house, which compensates for the fundamental difference between the height of the threshold and ground level. The standard layout of the average summer cottage includes a kitchen and a living room on the first floor and bedrooms on the second. It is most convenient to place the lift in the hallway. Doing it yourself with your own hands is only half the battle, much more time will be spent on its project.
First of all, it is necessary to familiarize yourself with generally accepted standards.So, the step width of 30 cm is considered optimal. This value is considered ideal for the average person and does not allow him to go astray when going up or down. Tilt should leave 45 degrees. Such a climb will not be too steep and not too gentle. The minimum clearance according to the design canons is 2 m. However, if the owners are tall or plan to constantly drag cabinets to the second floor, then it can be increased.
The average riser height should not exceed 20 cm. The optimal width of the stairs is considered to be 1 m, but in the presence of free, "ownerless" space - this value can be increased. They do not recommend decreasing, since the simultaneous descent / ascent of two people along such a narrow passage will already cause difficulties. Of course, it will not be limited to some basic values. The project begins with the layout of the location and the choice of place. Then make a detailed drawing, choose materials and style.
An individual design of an element can be invented independently or you can use ready-made ideas of professionals.
Choice of design and style
Each style has a number of features that do not bypass the stairs. For the classic direction, wooden marching structures are ideal. They are considered the most reliable. Valuable species of wood are chosen as the main material, among which oak is the leader. Protections are made of polished wooden elements of soft forms, varnished. In a rustic style, staircases made of a bar with rough processing organically look. Railings and decorative elements are created from ordinary rounded logs. In modern interiors, combined materials are used. For example, wooden steps are in harmony with tempered glass railings.
Wooden staircases are combined with Provence style furniture. After installation, they are painted in a traditional white color for this style.The steps are decorated in darker shades, since this part of the design is the most easily soiled. In minimalism, staircase creativity is welcomed in the form of "bare" steps that are built into the wall or are located between the "curtain" of the finest vertical supports resembling strings. The loft style uses a luxurious combination of wood and wrought metal. This technique once again emphasizes the sophistication of the direction.
A staircase can become a connecting link between rooms that are decorated in different styles. With the help of decorative elements, this transition can be made smooth and unobtrusive. Regardless of the location and area of the room, the staircase will always act as its main decoration. Due to its massiveness, this design simply cannot be pushed as a background. Therefore, the choice of a stylistic solution is very important, especially in those country houses where the “frontal” staircase welcomes guests from the doorway.
Spiral staircases are ideal for directions with a touch of romance. They are elegant and airy, easily fit into small rooms. The main thing is not to overdo it with the number of turns so that your head is not spinning.
The location of the stairs
Most often, stairs are installed in the hallway or hall, thereby allowing without a long passage through the extra rooms to immediately rise from the threshold to the desired floor. There are also options with side corridors, similar to typical high-rise buildings, but this model of placement is more suitable for large cottages with many interior spaces.
By location in the room there are only two types of stairs:
Central. They are installed in the middle of the room, thereby turning into a luxurious interior element, which will definitely focus attention.
Wall. Such staircases save space and are compactly located “on the sidelines”.
Original look models with windows in the spans.When decorating, they are decorated in the same style and the opening becomes part of the interior composition.
Materials used
The most popular material is wood. For the stairs, a quality tree is definitely chosen, since the safety of the structure directly depends on this. Of the types of wood noted:
Pine tree. A budget, affordable option that has a beautiful natural pattern. However, the pine will quickly turn yellow and have a short life, but it is easy to process.
Beech. Durable, but moody material. Even after processing with special tools, the beech can easily deform when the temperature or humidity changes. Not suitable for seasonal private houses, which the owners visit from time to time and do not maintain temperature conditions throughout the year.
Birch. An affordable type of wood with a nice pattern. It is easier to process than pine. It boasts a long service life.
Ash. Durable material that is difficult to process due to hardness. Ash texture not everyone will like.
Oak. A type of tree that knows no equal among domestic "competitors". Strong, durable, reliable. You have to pay well for the quality.
Also, the stairs are made of concrete, heavy-duty glass and metal. There are also combined options. Concrete stairs are distinguished by monumentality. These structures are located in multi-storey buildings. Do not be mistaken about the unpretentious appearance of concrete stairs. If you fill in such a design in a private house, then you can give it an original shape, and additional decor will completely eliminate the similarities with the same "official" element. Metal stairs are good in that they are combined with any other materials. Glass constructions are considered an "amateur", as they are suitable only for a narrow line of modern styles, led by a high-tech.
Varieties of railings according to the material of execution
The railing is considered the final touch in the design of the stairs. They are classified by shape, material of execution and design. Although their main function is protective, decorative give increasing importance. According to the material, the railing is divided into:
Wooden;
Metal;
Glass;
Polyurethane
Combined.
Each material has its own advantages and suits strictly certain styles.
Metal
Metal railings are made of steel, iron, aluminum, brass, bronze and cast iron. The latest material is relevant for street stairs. Stainless steel and iron belong to the station wagon, which successfully withstand both the effects of rain and frost, and indoor climate. Bronze and brass are capricious in leaving, therefore they are used only in classic styles, where an exquisite shine emphasizes the elegance of the setting. Soft, supple aluminum is used only inside the house, but provides the ability to tint in any shade at the request of the owners. Any of these materials is characterized by:
Strength and wear resistance. Metal is not afraid of moisture or temperature changes.
Easy care (except bronze and brass). The only enemy of metal is rust. Periodic application of a layer of anticorrosion paint will save you from it.
High fire safety.
Railings on the creation technology are divided into four types:
Prefabricated or modular, that is, consisting of individual elements that are interconnected during installation at the installation site using fasteners. Lightweight.
Welded models assemble “tightly”, which ensures the safety of the structure. The only weak point is the seams from welding. From rust it will have to be handled with special care.
In the casting process, structures are created by filling special molds with molten material. Cast railings are distinguished by their sophistication.
Forging allows you to create unique, elegant patterns and ornaments to fill the railing. Handmade forged products are of high cost.
Any of the above options can easily be combined with other materials. For example, forging organically looks with wood, and practical and modern model designs gravitate to glass and polyurethane.
Made of wood
Wood is material outside of fashion and timeless. It will remain relevant always. Wooden railings seamlessly merge into the style of a chalet, loft, ethnic and classic. The only drawback of the material is its sensitivity to moisture and temperature changes. To extend the service life, any wood must be impregnated with special compounds. Of the species, oak, beech and birch are preferred. In expensive apartments they use valuable exotic breeds that will cost a pretty penny. By the way, for the railings of spiral staircases use high-quality imitation of wood made of polyvinyl chloride. Its top layer accurately repeats the unique natural pattern of the material.
Glass railing
Glass railings at a subconscious level cause a feeling of anxiety, as the material is associated with fragility and the risk of cuts. These fears are completely in vain. In fact, the glass used for the railing has nothing in common (except for transparency) with the material for making dishes and bottles. It is covered with a special protective film, which in the event of a strong blow prevents the shattering of fragments. A similar effect has the windows of cars, which in a collision are decorated with a mesh of cracks. The material is durable, environmentally friendly and durable. Its edges are carefully processed, eliminating the possibility of getting cuts.
If desired, the glass can be tinted in any color or decorated with pictures, panoramas, matte patterns by etching the picture on the surface.
Combined
Combined options are diverse, but always aimed at achieving the main goal - increasing strength. The optimal tandem is a wooden railing in combination with metal racks. This combination is universal and suitable for both classic and contemporary styles. The trio of glass filling, metal frame and wooden railings looks luxurious. Such magnificence will cost a lot, but the aesthetic appearance of the structure is worth it.
Lighting
Luxurious stones require an elegant setting. Also with stairs: this element must be emphasized. Its lighting is decorative in nature and belongs to the local one. Of course, there is also practical benefit in highlighting: to overcome stairs in the dark, having such a guidebook, is much easier and safer. For open lighting use the same type of sconces on the walls, pendant lights and stage lighting. Neon or LED lamps are usually taken as hidden devices. They are mounted under the steps or hidden behind special caps attached to the wall near each crossbar.
Neon has a long service life, and the LEDs are universal and work both from the mains and from the batteries. In complex staircase designs, designers even at the design stage provide for a special niche under each step, where fixtures will be placed in the future.
How to arrange the space under the stairs
Non-standard models include staircase racks. This original design element allows you to turn an ownerless, empty place into a usable area. Such a rack can be open or closed. If space allows, then books are put on shelves, and a cozy reading corner is arranged nearby. For more practical owners, a built-in pantry is organized under the stairs. In cases where there is a window under the structure, it is complemented by a low windowsill-sofa, where you can relax with a cup of tea while admiring the local beauties. In more luxurious apartments, a bar counter with special holders for glasses on top is equipped under a ladder.If the house has pets, then the space under the structure can become a platform for placing a neat house for the pet. A study in this area is also not uncommon. When there is no shortage of space in the house, then this area can be given under a mini-garden with indoor plants.
Conclusion
Stairs have a rich history. If at first they performed only the practical function of the road to other floors, now they have managed to become a full-fledged element of the interior of the house. Their design has the same meaning as the design of furniture or a combination of color palette. Do not push the ladder into the far corner, waving a hand at it. With the proper approach, it will become the pride of the owners and a demonstrative example of their design talents.
According to a common legend, animals planted the idea of creating stairs. Goat paths that had impromptu steps became the prototype of this design. The oldest staircase was found in a salt mine. It was made of wood, but retained its appearance due to the "preserving" effect of salt. The first technical requirements for the stairs were the ancient Egyptians. Their letters speak of the savvy architects of those times. Stairs in the interior of Egyptian houses were rarely decorated. They were given sacred meaning in the pyramids. Indeed, in fact, this man-made burial mound symbolized the four-way road to heaven to the god Ra. Even now, in buildings with more than one floor, you can’t do without a staircase. Over time, they began to be replaced with more convenient elevators, but in each house there is still an “outdated” option as an alternative.
This feature provides a vertical connection between floors. The design of the stairs in the Middle Ages became more complicated. Those on the street were decorated with carvings and weaving plants, which made them an important element of the exterior of the house. More and more complex shapes were given to the internal stairs, and the railings and balusters were made of metal with intricate forged patterns. Now this element emphasizes the stylistic decision of home design. Let's talk about the types of stairs and the materials from which they are made.
Content
Types and design features of stairs
Despite the large number of types and models of stairs, the basic set of each includes the same elements:
According to the types of structures, stairs are divided into three main types:
The latter type, in turn, is classified into subspecies depending on the shape of the stairs:
By the way, there is a separate category of stairs - combined. It combines various models. Typically, the need for such complex elements arises in rooms of irregular shapes.
How to design a staircase
Stairs are needed not only to owners of country houses, but also to owners of two-story apartments. Even from the street, a small ladder usually leads to the house, which compensates for the fundamental difference between the height of the threshold and ground level. The standard layout of the average summer cottage includes a kitchen and a living room on the first floor and bedrooms on the second. It is most convenient to place the lift in the hallway. Doing it yourself with your own hands is only half the battle, much more time will be spent on its project.
First of all, it is necessary to familiarize yourself with generally accepted standards.So, the step width of 30 cm is considered optimal. This value is considered ideal for the average person and does not allow him to go astray when going up or down. Tilt should leave 45 degrees. Such a climb will not be too steep and not too gentle. The minimum clearance according to the design canons is 2 m. However, if the owners are tall or plan to constantly drag cabinets to the second floor, then it can be increased.
The average riser height should not exceed 20 cm. The optimal width of the stairs is considered to be 1 m, but in the presence of free, "ownerless" space - this value can be increased. They do not recommend decreasing, since the simultaneous descent / ascent of two people along such a narrow passage will already cause difficulties. Of course, it will not be limited to some basic values. The project begins with the layout of the location and the choice of place. Then make a detailed drawing, choose materials and style.
An individual design of an element can be invented independently or you can use ready-made ideas of professionals.
Choice of design and style
Each style has a number of features that do not bypass the stairs. For the classic direction, wooden marching structures are ideal. They are considered the most reliable. Valuable species of wood are chosen as the main material, among which oak is the leader. Protections are made of polished wooden elements of soft forms, varnished. In a rustic style, staircases made of a bar with rough processing organically look. Railings and decorative elements are created from ordinary rounded logs. In modern interiors, combined materials are used. For example, wooden steps are in harmony with tempered glass railings.
Wooden staircases are combined with Provence style furniture. After installation, they are painted in a traditional white color for this style.The steps are decorated in darker shades, since this part of the design is the most easily soiled. In minimalism, staircase creativity is welcomed in the form of "bare" steps that are built into the wall or are located between the "curtain" of the finest vertical supports resembling strings. The loft style uses a luxurious combination of wood and wrought metal. This technique once again emphasizes the sophistication of the direction.
A staircase can become a connecting link between rooms that are decorated in different styles. With the help of decorative elements, this transition can be made smooth and unobtrusive. Regardless of the location and area of the room, the staircase will always act as its main decoration. Due to its massiveness, this design simply cannot be pushed as a background. Therefore, the choice of a stylistic solution is very important, especially in those country houses where the “frontal” staircase welcomes guests from the doorway.
The location of the stairs
Most often, stairs are installed in the hallway or hall, thereby allowing without a long passage through the extra rooms to immediately rise from the threshold to the desired floor. There are also options with side corridors, similar to typical high-rise buildings, but this model of placement is more suitable for large cottages with many interior spaces.
By location in the room there are only two types of stairs:
Original look models with windows in the spans.When decorating, they are decorated in the same style and the opening becomes part of the interior composition.
Materials used
The most popular material is wood. For the stairs, a quality tree is definitely chosen, since the safety of the structure directly depends on this. Of the types of wood noted:
Also, the stairs are made of concrete, heavy-duty glass and metal. There are also combined options. Concrete stairs are distinguished by monumentality. These structures are located in multi-storey buildings. Do not be mistaken about the unpretentious appearance of concrete stairs. If you fill in such a design in a private house, then you can give it an original shape, and additional decor will completely eliminate the similarities with the same "official" element. Metal stairs are good in that they are combined with any other materials. Glass constructions are considered an "amateur", as they are suitable only for a narrow line of modern styles, led by a high-tech.
Varieties of railings according to the material of execution
The railing is considered the final touch in the design of the stairs. They are classified by shape, material of execution and design. Although their main function is protective, decorative give increasing importance. According to the material, the railing is divided into:
Each material has its own advantages and suits strictly certain styles.
Metal
Metal railings are made of steel, iron, aluminum, brass, bronze and cast iron. The latest material is relevant for street stairs. Stainless steel and iron belong to the station wagon, which successfully withstand both the effects of rain and frost, and indoor climate. Bronze and brass are capricious in leaving, therefore they are used only in classic styles, where an exquisite shine emphasizes the elegance of the setting. Soft, supple aluminum is used only inside the house, but provides the ability to tint in any shade at the request of the owners. Any of these materials is characterized by:
Railings on the creation technology are divided into four types:
Any of the above options can easily be combined with other materials. For example, forging organically looks with wood, and practical and modern model designs gravitate to glass and polyurethane.
Made of wood
Wood is material outside of fashion and timeless. It will remain relevant always. Wooden railings seamlessly merge into the style of a chalet, loft, ethnic and classic. The only drawback of the material is its sensitivity to moisture and temperature changes. To extend the service life, any wood must be impregnated with special compounds. Of the species, oak, beech and birch are preferred. In expensive apartments they use valuable exotic breeds that will cost a pretty penny. By the way, for the railings of spiral staircases use high-quality imitation of wood made of polyvinyl chloride. Its top layer accurately repeats the unique natural pattern of the material.
Glass railing
Glass railings at a subconscious level cause a feeling of anxiety, as the material is associated with fragility and the risk of cuts. These fears are completely in vain. In fact, the glass used for the railing has nothing in common (except for transparency) with the material for making dishes and bottles. It is covered with a special protective film, which in the event of a strong blow prevents the shattering of fragments. A similar effect has the windows of cars, which in a collision are decorated with a mesh of cracks. The material is durable, environmentally friendly and durable. Its edges are carefully processed, eliminating the possibility of getting cuts.
If desired, the glass can be tinted in any color or decorated with pictures, panoramas, matte patterns by etching the picture on the surface.
Combined
Combined options are diverse, but always aimed at achieving the main goal - increasing strength. The optimal tandem is a wooden railing in combination with metal racks. This combination is universal and suitable for both classic and contemporary styles. The trio of glass filling, metal frame and wooden railings looks luxurious. Such magnificence will cost a lot, but the aesthetic appearance of the structure is worth it.
Lighting
Luxurious stones require an elegant setting. Also with stairs: this element must be emphasized. Its lighting is decorative in nature and belongs to the local one. Of course, there is also practical benefit in highlighting: to overcome stairs in the dark, having such a guidebook, is much easier and safer. For open lighting use the same type of sconces on the walls, pendant lights and stage lighting. Neon or LED lamps are usually taken as hidden devices. They are mounted under the steps or hidden behind special caps attached to the wall near each crossbar.
Neon has a long service life, and the LEDs are universal and work both from the mains and from the batteries. In complex staircase designs, designers even at the design stage provide for a special niche under each step, where fixtures will be placed in the future.
How to arrange the space under the stairs
Non-standard models include staircase racks. This original design element allows you to turn an ownerless, empty place into a usable area. Such a rack can be open or closed. If space allows, then books are put on shelves, and a cozy reading corner is arranged nearby. For more practical owners, a built-in pantry is organized under the stairs. In cases where there is a window under the structure, it is complemented by a low windowsill-sofa, where you can relax with a cup of tea while admiring the local beauties. In more luxurious apartments, a bar counter with special holders for glasses on top is equipped under a ladder.If the house has pets, then the space under the structure can become a platform for placing a neat house for the pet. A study in this area is also not uncommon. When there is no shortage of space in the house, then this area can be given under a mini-garden with indoor plants.
Conclusion
Stairs have a rich history. If at first they performed only the practical function of the road to other floors, now they have managed to become a full-fledged element of the interior of the house. Their design has the same meaning as the design of furniture or a combination of color palette. Do not push the ladder into the far corner, waving a hand at it. With the proper approach, it will become the pride of the owners and a demonstrative example of their design talents.