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38Comments
Oct 6, 2012 5:23AM
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Different is not always better.

 

I wouldn't install stairs like those or buy a house with any of them in the house.

 

The bookcase stairway would work for a book lover, but only in the back stairs leading to a home library, not the main stairs.

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Flights of whimsy by people with too much disposable income. Economy affecting you much? Stairs are stairs. Fifty grand and more for those idiotic deathtraps? Give me a break.
May 6, 2012 1:34PM
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How did this get by the building codes?

 

May 6, 2012 11:38AM
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as an older person with balance issues and a fear of height, just looking at these pics makes me nervous lol
May 6, 2012 11:25AM
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unsafe unsafe unsafe unsafe unsafe

May 6, 2012 10:14AM
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What is wrong with architectural  thinking? Should stairs be functional or should they satisfy someones artistic sesibilities?  Those stairs shown are an inspiration for people that want to commit suicide. As an older person who needs a handrail for assistance getting up the stairs I do not want to promote the career of potential assasins.  
May 6, 2012 9:57AM
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Smileslide 4, I would like to see them make the hand rail for those steps look like it's floating! Can you imagine 2 paramedics trying to get someone down those steps on a stretcher?
May 6, 2012 9:56AM
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unfortunately here in the US you can't have beautiful floating stairs like that, the fascist building department would never let that happen,  even if it's in a private home.  I would love to put that in my home and I know the risks involved, and wish I had the freedom to choose it.
public buildings yes I agree we need building codes but not in private ones. 
May 6, 2012 9:55AM
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The "White Light" stairs CLEARLY do NOT meet NY building codes.
May 6, 2012 9:53AM
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Most likely those stairs were altered after receiving permits & occupancy certificates. A building inspector would never sign off on the stairs that are pictured unless he was on the take.
May 6, 2012 9:47AM
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Most of the RADICAL stairs are in countries other than the USA, where the stairs would NOT even come close to meeting IRC building codes. The safety aspect of some of these stairs are laughable at best. People would kill themselves using most of the stairs. They are cool though.
May 6, 2012 9:35AM
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and i am an expert because i am a licensed architect.
May 6, 2012 9:34AM
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many of these designs are unsafe and would not pass residential building codes. as is, about 4000 people in the usa die each year from stair falls.
May 6, 2012 9:12AM
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This is just like Obama's Marxism:  It sure does look good - on paper.
May 6, 2012 9:02AM
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Hopefully they didn't "solder" the floating stairs steps.  The writer should know the difference between solder & weld.
May 6, 2012 8:49AM
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The lift away stairs reminds me of the Munsters, or was it the Addams Family?
May 6, 2012 8:37AM
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Many of those stair cases are cool, but what student in the 7th grade photography class took those photos? Only a few of the photos actually illustrated the description. If you're going to write an article about design, use better photos, otherwise you rely completely on the words, which in my opinion is not as exciting to the viewer.

Most probably have code violations, unless they find someone to do the work on the "hush hush" or accept paying a much steeper liability. They're all pretty cool. I kind of want a home with the secret staircase (with the movement of chess pieces that they were talking about). Very Sherlock.

May 6, 2012 8:33AM
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Non standard stair systems that require a non traditional approach to navigate can be an awkward feeling to a new climber. I built a two story 5 foot diameter oak spiral system that travels a 3/4 spiral to a 1/4 platform on each floor landing. It is built to safety code with rise, run, handrail and baluster spacing The kids and I run up that system like we are just turning around and we're up or down there. Upon observing new climbers a very cautious and guarded posture is very apparent. I love the systems aesthetic and space saving characteristics but must admit carrying a vacuum or any larger or heavy object requires concentration. Forget about bringing a queen size box spring up the stair system. You better have access to a large 2nd floor window.  Bottom line, Nontraditional systems require a non traditional approach and don't forget about building codes or you may not be able to sell your home in some areas. They are beautiful.
May 6, 2012 8:00AM
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Most of these stairways violate the building codes. As such they are life safety hazards, see NFPA 101 article 7 and Chapter 10 of the IBC. The designers and the builders are liable for any injuries. As a building inspector and an expert in construction matters I await the call from an attorney on these stairs.
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