stairway

A stairway, or staircase, is a constructed series of steps that provides passage between different levels of a building or other structure. A typical stairway includes treads (the horizontal steps) and risers (the vertical components) supported by stringers, and is often enclosed by balustrades with a handrail for safety.

Stairways vary in configuration. Common forms include straight stairs, L-shaped or U-shaped stairs with landings, winder stairs, spiral stairs, and curved stairs. Materials range from wood and concrete to steel, masonry, or composites, and some stairways use prefabricated components. The choice of design and materials depends on architectural style, structural requirements, and environmental considerations.

Design and dimension are guided by usability and code requirements. A typical step has a rise of about 7 inches (178 mm) and a tread depth of about 11 inches (279 mm). The total number of steps depends on the height between floors. Building codes specify minimum headroom (often around 6 feet 8 inches, or 203 cm), handrail height (roughly 34–38 inches, or 86–97 cm), and requirements for landings, guardrails, and nosing. Accessibility standards may require additional features, such as continuous handrails and defined contrasts for visually impaired users. Safety considerations include uniform step dimensions, non-slip surfaces, adequate lighting, and clear sightlines.

Historically, stairways have been an essential architectural element from ancient structures to modern buildings, evolving with structural and aesthetic innovations such as cantilevered and floating designs. In culture, “stairway” appears in various expressions and titles, including the well-known Led Zeppelin song Stairway to Heaven, which is referenced in discussions of music and culture without quoting lyrics.