Metalsmithed Spiral Tread Supports

Metalsmithed Spiral Stair Tread Supports

I am excited to share with you the magic that is happening in the building of this spiral. We are using a unique metal tread support system that is our design. This is something we’ve been waiting for the opportunity to do, and as we had hoped - the outcome is more sculptural than typical. The tread supports looked like a spine from a prehistoric being before they were erected and bolted to the center column. As is shown in the pictures, you can see Christian putting the treads on the supports for the first time. He is testing that they are level and that all the stairs are lining up correctly. He must also ensure the spiral lets you out in the right spot on the upper balcony. To build a spiral, not only must you have a vision, but you also need to remember your geometry and algebra before the magic can really happen. I love the look of the stair right now, before we add the railing. This is a sculpture in and of itself, and the rail will bring a completely different yet equally striking effect!

Phoebe Schraer

Executive Coordinator

Lighthouses: Compressing Spiral Stairs

I've always been fascinated by lighthouses, have gone out of my way in my airplane to overfly one at too low an altitude and have toured several in my travels. When PBS has a lighthouse special, I always watch it. Obviously part of the fascination comes from the amazing circular stairs inside. They are intriguing from the standpoint that many of them are a compressing spiral, meaning since the tower is often tapered, they get tighter as the spiral climbs toward the lens. I have photographed this architectural feature somewhat extensively because I found it challenging from a design standpoint. I have plans and drawings for such a stair. One "bucket list" ambition I have is to build a climbing/tapering/lighthouse style staircase for someone's home or office before I'm too old to master its complexity. –Shawn Christman, Seattle Stair

If you haven't visited the Heceta Head lighthouse in Oregon, I highly recommend it. Google this lighthouse, purported to be the most-photographed one in the US, and you'll find some gorgeous professional photography of the interior stairs.

photo from Planet Eugene.com