Staircases to heaven – ten methods to stand up | Information | Architonic

The differences between L-, U- and even S-shaped geometric options is simple. An L-shaped staircase, like Zig Zag from Siller Treppen, features a single 90 degree turn at any point. Whereas U-shaped stairs make two 90 degree turns, as Melbourne – also from Siller Treppen – does, ending on the same axis it started on. The far rarer S-shaped stairs curve one way, then back away from their starting point. S-shaped stairs project in the same direction a straight staircase does, but with a more sensual, aesthetic form.

Along with their visual presence, cornering staircases can also be used to increase both privacy and safety between floors – with less falling distance should one trip.