What Are the Witches’ Stairs? The Strange Home Architecture Choice Explained

Revealing the Witches’ Steps

A few years ago, a unique architectural element known as “witches’ stairs” attracted attention on TikTok, piqueing people’s interest with its peculiar layout. The narrative behind these steps defies superstition, despite their intriguing name, and they prove to be both useful and aesthetically pleasing.

The Illusion: Expliciting Causes

The reason behind witches’ staircase isn’t superstition, despite what the public believes. They are useful, particularly in residences with limited space, which are frequently found in lofts, attics, and tiny cottages. They are called “alternate tread stairs” by architects, and their purpose is to maximize available space while easing floor-to-floor mobility.

Practical Design: Making the Most of Space

Witches’ stairs are functional without compromising safety, with their thin steps spaced to conserve area. They can also be used as places to store books or decorative objects. Residential versions of these steps are usually narrower than regular staircases, measuring between 27 and 30 inches in width. They also comply with building rules and safety standards.

Genuine Origins: A Useful Innovation

Entrepreneur J.M. Lapeyre filed a patent for a metal version of witches’ stairs in 1985. The steps were initially designed to be a safer option than ladders in warehouse and commercial environments. Beyond residential use, the design—also referred to as ship stairs or alternating tread steps—found application in a number of sectors.

Dispelling Myths: Distinguishing Reality from Fiction

Historical data refutes urban legends linking the witches’ steps to the Salem witch trials and Massachusetts in the seventeenth century. It’s still unclear where these stairs really came from, but there’s no evidence to support the theory that witches were the target audience..

Valuing distinctive design

Witches’ stairs may not have a clear historical background, but their unique design gives contemporary places personality and usefulness. Witches’ stairs are a fascinating and captivating feature that never goes out of style, whether it’s viewed as a clever design element or a useful invention.