etäportaat

Etäportaat is a Finnish term that translates to "remote stairs" or "distance stairs." It refers to a specific type of staircase design, often found in older or traditional Finnish buildings, particularly in rural areas or summer cottages. The key characteristic of etäportaat is that the individual steps are not connected to a solid, continuous stringer board. Instead, each step is typically supported by separate wooden or metal brackets that are attached directly to the wall or to vertical supports.

This construction method creates a visually distinct appearance where the gaps between the steps are more pronounced, and the steps themselves appear to float or be cantilevered. Etäportaat were often employed in situations where space was limited or where a simpler, less resource-intensive construction was desired. The design can contribute to a rustic or utilitarian aesthetic. While they may not offer the same structural rigidity as a fully supported staircase, etäportaat are generally considered safe and functional when properly built and maintained. The term emphasizes the visual separation and independent support of each stair tread, setting them apart from more common staircase constructions.