Spiral stairs between the space-saving stairs, but not only

12 February 2025

Apartments of small sizes, attics or other interiors made with ingenuity to make the most of every available centimeter, may need modern space-saving internal stairs to connect to a upper level

Small – or very small – indoor stairs must perform their function of vertical connection but at the same time they must be at the height of the aesthetics and the overall design of the interior, even in a tiny house

Practical and beautiful: among modern interior staircases an aspect not only minimalist for aesthetic purposes, but intelligent, leads to a modern interior staircase space-saving refined and optimized the horizontal footprint.

The modern internal staircase tries to combine maximum functionality and aesthetic impact with some design options; for this reason it is particularly important that it is chosen ad hoc for an environment and in the event of limited space you have to design and build your stair possibly customized for an interior and a specific location, not necessarily a conventional staircase. 

Very often it turns out that a spiral staircase is the best solution, instead of straight stairs which not always can fit your space, because of spiral staircase dimensions and verticality. But let’s go in order.

Modern space-saving internal stairs: in addition to the spiral stair, the mini stairs

Not taking into account retractable stairs – useful but not equipped with that attractiveness necessary to be up to the style requirements if we talk about modern interior staircases – we will dwell on the so-called mini stairs, the real modern interior space-saving stairs according to stair experts. To support the most possible the recent needs of living in small spaces, but with a careful eye on style and personality during the design process, mini stairs are born: with minimum footprint they are undoubtedly more comfortable, safer and more pleasing visually than retractable ones.

On any occasion where you are looking for more livable space, for example with a loft, the recovery of an attic or simply during a renovation for an open space, in which you have to renew the existing staircase but want to optimize the spaces (of course always in agreement with the local building regulations …mini stair systems could be ideal.

It is a fixed modern stair that has as its first requirement a structural conformation designed to reduce the use of centimeters to an historic minimum: for example, stairs with alternate feet which have a clear walking path than traditional straight stairs (excluding the ladder which we are not examining); the steps are shaped to allow a very precise, making sure that it’s suitable for one person at a time. Often the single ramp is placed close to a wall, with a central monostructure modular, it may also not have straight walking space, accompanied by a single handrail.

But there are no hard rules, except for the minimum standards of measurements and safety to be adhered to, and in fact the possibility of customization regarding materials and colors is still wide, even when the mini-scales are prefabricated or stair kits.

Clearly the space-saving internal stairs, which must still take into account the placement of any windows, doors or passages, will never be as comfortable as modern and spacious spiral stairways or modern internal straight stairs, regardless of number of steps, but they can solve a fundamental question with style.

But let’s get to the heart of the article: spiral stairs, indoor spiral stairs (and outdoor spiral staircases), and why spiral staircase dimensions, above all the spiral stair diameter, make round stairs saving space projects.

Spiral staircases and helical stairs among all modern space-saving interior stairs

Modern space-saving internal staircases include circular stairs, residential spiral stairs -with center pole- and, to some extent, helical curved stairs. The modern spiral staircase, for obvious reasons, is the one that most limits the horizontal footprint, developing only in height: this is why we can talk about space-saving interior stairs.

Circular stairs, spiral stairs or custom spiral helical stairs (generally wider than the classic spiral staircase dimensions) can also have a square or rectangular plan – square floor opening size -, so with steps with a squared profile, but they will be less invasive compared to any open staircase.

The minimum spiral stair diameter as well as all other minimum spiral staircase dimensions concerning rise, tread depth, slope etc. shall be determined by the applicable standard,local building regulations, depending on whether the interior stairs in question are main or secondary spiral stairs (there is a possibility on the market to have a space-saving internal staircase, called half-spiral stair, which in practice takes up even less space, half of a spiral staircase with the same diameter)

However, even very simple spiral staircases in canonical size: for example a forged iron spiral staircase or a modern steel spiral stair, essential and without too many frills, have a remarkable aesthetic performance with very modest footprint (included industrial spiral stairs).

In general interior stairs designed ad hoc and customized by several workers on the aesthetic and space needs of the customer, offer really many solutions, whether it is a new construction or a modern interior staircase is being installed during a renovation. 

Spiral staircase dimensions and other features

The spiral staircase is a functional and aesthetic solution for connecting different levels within a space, making it ideal for optimizing small areas thanks to its compact design. A spiral stair features a circular or square footprint, and a design that revolves around a central column, providing an efficient and practical passage even in limited spaces.

Custom spiral stairs and prefabricated and modular spiral staircases can be crafted from various materials: wood spiral stairs, steel spiral stairs (galvanized steel on outdoor spiral projects), natural iron or forged iron stairs, with use of glass, mixed combinations and so on, allowing for extensive customization to suit classic, modern, or industrial styles -industrial spiral stairs have become trendy). The steps in the recommended average usually have a depth of 9-10 inches and a maximum rise of 8 inches, ensuring comfort and safety.

Common variations include spiral staircases with glass railings for a transparent and modern look, wooden designs for a warm, traditional aesthetic, or painted steel versions for industrial settings. Some models feature perforated or backlit steps to add a dramatic touch. The final outcome of the project can be affected by the spiral staircase dimensions, regardless of the design and the style.

Thanks to their versatility, round stairs and above all classical spiral staircases can be tailored to fit specific space and style requirements, becoming a unique and distinctive design element.

Not only spiral staircase: special stairs to optimize spaces

Among the modern space-saving internal stairs we can certainly include all those strategic and innovative solutions that are able to optimize the space to the maximum degree, to enjoy the functionality and aesthetics of a modern stair performing miracles in very narrow interiors!

It may be more laborious than expected to design and build your stair, possibly stylish or at least aesthetically pleasing, with small sizes available, but ingenuity and imagination can do a lot!

Starting from suspended stairs, for example modern interior stairs in stone or wood or other materials: only the steps anchored to the walls take away space to them necessary leaving free everything else; this type of modern internal staircase that seems to float in the void is really essential as visual impact, as well as practical.

Space-saving stairs for interiors can also be considered structures designed with strategic expedients such as those with inserted custom furniture like bookcases or shelving of some kind; or you can evaluate special starts, transformable from steps to real furniture elements stand alone, as seats or containers…

In short, even a structure such as an indoor staircase is manageable with cunning and a little creativity to combine the best functional rendering, aesthetics and management of spaces, not a minor issue, the problem is growing, especially in large cities.

Learn more about spiral staircase dimensions and other features

If you want to transform your spaces into unique environments full of character, a spiral staircase can become the perfect distinctive element. Functionality and aesthetics are combined in this type of installation, essential for modern and contemporary interior design.

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