Staircases for Small Spaces

There are a number of stairs that will get you from one level to the next while using very little floor space. Here are the options along with the space needs, cost and ease of use.

A spiral stair is a stair that typically rotates off a center post. These stairs are available in diameters as small as 4'. A spiral that is reasonable for the average size adult to walk, should be at least a 5' diameter (requiring a 5' x 5' floor space). Spiral prices have a huge range, from $500 to over $100,000. The low end is a poor quality production spiral. The high end spiral is a work of art. For a good quality custom spiral stair you should plan on a ball park of $10,000.

Alternating Step Stairs blend a ladder and stair together. Their walking comfort is similar to a ships ladder, but they take a bit more effort to use. You need to start off with the correct foot and coming down can take a bit of concentration too. These are generally custom made, and cost a few thousand dollars. The floor space required is slightly less than 3' x 3'.

A ships ladder is the most walkable ladder. It has railings on both sides. If you remember the old movies that took place on ships — the captain nearly ran down the ships ladder with ease. The railing is what makes the ships ladder so easy to use. The floor space required is about 2' x 3'. The cost of a ships ladder will be similar to that of an alternating step stair.

Loft or Library Ladders are generally used without a handrail; as you climb, you hold onto the sides of the ladder. Some ladders are almost vertical (harder to walk), while others project out onto the floor a foot or more. Custom made library ladders are around a thousand dollars, and can take as little floor space as 1' x 2'.

By determining your space and your budget, you can figure which one is right for you.