Stairs
Forms and Materials

It can be argued that the progression of architectural form demands that new structural forms are generated. This process is not simply engineering innovation for its own sake; a pointless exercise. Original forms are created because engineers offer designers the chance to develop structural ideas which fit the architectural pattern. As each context and scheme is unique and requires an original solution then so structural innovation often results. The development of staircase design is a microcosm of the design interaction which has developed between architects and engineers in the wider context. The effects required give the possibility of creating forms which have a particular texture, or spatial impact; enhancing verticality or horizontallity and creating patterns of composition and detailing which can respond to particular architectural objectives.