Stair Design Case Studies
Explore real-world stair design projects with detailed analysis, professional insights, and lessons learned. Each case study provides valuable information for your own projects.
Project Categories
Contemporary Home in Austin, Texas
Challenge
Design floating stairs that meet code while maintaining open, airy feel
Solution
Hidden steel stringers with hardwood treads and glass railings
Technical Specifications
Dimensions
- Total Rise: 108 inches (9 feet)
- Number of Steps: 15
- Individual Rise: 7.2 inches
- Tread Depth: 11 inches
- Stair Width: 42 inches
Materials Used
- 2x12 steel stringers
- 1.5-inch white oak treads
- Tempered glass railings
- Stainless steel hardware
Key Professional Insights
Steel stringers hidden within walls for floating appearance
Careful coordination with electrical for LED strip lighting
Glass railings required special mounting to meet 200-pound load requirement
Open risers permitted by local jurisdiction for residential use
Project Results
Achieved desired modern aesthetic while meeting all building codes
LED lighting integration improved safety and visual appeal
Client reported high satisfaction with final product
Project completed within timeline and budget
Class A Office Complex in Chicago
Challenge
Fire-rated stairwell meeting high-occupancy egress requirements
Solution
Reinforced concrete stairs with fire-resistant finishes and emergency lighting
Technical Specifications
Dimensions
- Total Rise: 130 inches per floor
- Number of Steps: 19
- Individual Rise: 6.84 inches
- Tread Depth: 11.5 inches
- Stair Width: 56 inches
Materials Used
- Reinforced concrete structure
- Non-slip terrazzo treads
- Steel pipe handrails
- Emergency lighting system
Key Professional Insights
IBC requirements more stringent than residential IRC codes
Emergency lighting and exit signage integration critical
Terrazzo treads provide durability and slip resistance
Wider stairs necessary for high-occupancy building egress
Project Results
Passed all fire marshal inspections on first review
Met ADA accessibility requirements throughout
Exceeded building owner's durability expectations
Contributed to LEED certification points for the building
Lakefront Property in Minnesota
Challenge
Weather-resistant stairs handling 4-foot elevation change with intermediate landing
Solution
Pressure-treated lumber construction with composite treads and proper drainage
Technical Specifications
Dimensions
- Total Rise: 48 inches
- Number of Steps: 7 + 7 (split by landing)
- Individual Rise: 6.86 inches
- Tread Depth: 12 inches
- Stair Width: 36 inches
Materials Used
- Pressure-treated 2x12 stringers
- Composite decking treads
- Aluminum railings
- Galvanized hardware
Key Professional Insights
Intermediate landing required by code for total rise over 30 inches
Composite treads provide slip resistance in wet conditions
Proper drainage crucial to prevent ice buildup in winter
Galvanized hardware essential for longevity in outdoor environment
Project Results
Withstood harsh Minnesota winters without structural issues
Composite treads maintained traction in all weather conditions
No maintenance required in first two years of use
Enhanced property value and outdoor accessibility
Distribution Center in Phoenix, Arizona
Challenge
Heavy-duty stairs for frequent use with forklift clearance requirements
Solution
Steel frame construction with anti-slip metal grating and OSHA-compliant railings
Technical Specifications
Dimensions
- Total Rise: 144 inches (12 feet)
- Number of Steps: 18
- Individual Rise: 8 inches
- Tread Depth: 10 inches
- Stair Width: 44 inches
Materials Used
- Steel tube frame
- Galvanized metal grating treads
- OSHA-compliant railings
- Yellow safety striping
Key Professional Insights
OSHA requirements different from standard building codes
Metal grating provides drainage and reduces weight
Yellow safety striping improves visibility in industrial environment
Design accommodated overhead clearance for material handling equipment
Project Results
Met all OSHA safety requirements for industrial use
Supported heavy daily traffic without structural issues
Easy maintenance with pressure washing capability
Improved workflow efficiency in warehouse operations
1920s Colonial Revival in Boston
Challenge
Restore original staircase while meeting modern safety codes
Solution
Careful restoration of existing structure with code-compliant safety upgrades
Technical Specifications
Dimensions
- Total Rise: 96 inches
- Number of Steps: 14
- Individual Rise: 6.86 inches
- Tread Depth: 10.5 inches
- Stair Width: 36 inches
Materials Used
- Original reclaimed chestnut treads
- Restored hardwood handrails
- Period-appropriate balusters
- Modern safety glass inserts
Key Professional Insights
Balancing historic preservation with modern safety requirements
Original materials refinished rather than replaced when possible
Added safety glass between balusters to meet current codes
Custom millwork required to match 1920s architectural details
Project Results
Preserved historic character while meeting current building codes
Increased home value through authentic restoration
Recognition from local historic preservation society
Set precedent for similar restoration projects in the neighborhood
Universal Design Home in California
Challenge
Create accessible outdoor space with multiple levels for wheelchair user
Solution
Combination of ADA-compliant ramps and stairs with universal design features
Technical Specifications
Dimensions
- Total Rise: 36 inches
- Number of Steps:
- Individual Rise:
- Tread Depth: 12 inches
- Stair Width: 44 inches
Materials Used
- Composite decking
- Aluminum railings with ADA-compliant grips
- Non-slip surfaces
- LED path lighting
Key Professional Insights
Dual access system provides options for all mobility levels
Wider landings accommodate wheelchair maneuvering space
Contrasting materials help visually impaired users navigate safely
LED lighting improves safety for evening use
Project Results
Full ADA compliance achieved throughout design
Enhanced outdoor living for entire family
Increased property accessibility and value
Featured in universal design publication as exemplary project
Planning Phase
- • Always verify local building code requirements early
- • Consider future maintenance access during design
- • Account for all finish materials in rise calculations
- • Plan electrical and lighting integration from the start
Construction Phase
- • Double-check measurements before cutting materials
- • Use appropriate fasteners for the environment
- • Test fit all components before final installation
- • Schedule inspections at appropriate milestones
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