The staircase is one of the most popular functional elements in the design of residential premises, office and shopping centers, sports facilities and administrative buildings.
Types by design
Supplied from the best Italian manufacturers, stairs made of metal, precious woods, glass and even concrete are in high demand among consumers. Such stairs, performed in a classic or modern style, become not only a necessary element, but also an interior decoration.
Despite the fact that the market today is overflowing with a variety of offers, stairs from Italy are very popular with us, especially for decorating the interiors of country houses.
By the type of their design, they can be subdivided into stairs:
- on kosoura;
- on the side bowstrings;
- marching;
- involute;
- screw;
- modular;
- on the bolts.
The arrangement of steps in space is realized using various design solutions. The optimal choice is such factors as the walls adjacent to the opening, the opening itself, the possible area for construction and the intended design.
Screw
Screw options help in cases where there are space restrictions or in cases where the opening is small.
The central post is usually made of wood or metal.
Graceful Italian spiral staircases are available with steps from various materials:
- wood;
- glass;
- artificial stone;
- metal.
The fencing depends on the specific design and can be made of painted metal, stainless steel, wrought iron or wood.
Spiral staircases usually make one turn between two floors. They end with a platform at the level of the upper floor.
Important. When choosing a specific option, pay attention to the distance between the steps. For screw devices, it should not exceed 180 - 200 mm.
On the bolts
This design is used when the lift must be positioned close to the load-bearing wall. The steps are attached to the wall using corners or rods, depending on the specific model.
Such devices are quite comfortable and can withstand heavy loads. The installation of the ladder on the bolts is simple and convenient. It is quite possible to do it yourself if you have experience in owning construction tools.
Important. When installing such a device, special elastic gaskets are inserted into the wall, and then the fasteners themselves are the bolts to which the steps are attached. Spacers are required to dampen the transmission of the shock wave to the load-bearing wall.
Modular
Italian compact modular systems are in great demand. Such stairs require minimal space, are very comfortable and aesthetically pleasing.
They are optimal for a country house, their most convenient purpose is installation in the attic. During installation, it is possible to turn the steps up to a semicircle.
The assembly and installation of the modular design takes only a few hours. The manufacturer's instructions are quite clear and allow for self-assembly.
The height of the steps is adjustable. The ceiling opening for these Italian products is minimal.
Technical characteristics of the popular modular Italian design shown in the photo:
- 11 steps;
- height between floors: 222 - 300 cm;
- distance between steps: 18.5 cm - 25 cm;
- minimum opening in the ceiling: 70 x 130 cm;
- one-sided fencing;
- PVC railings of different colors;
- wooden steps covered with wear-resistant varnish;
- step thickness: 4 cm;
- width of steps: 60 cm;
- the steps have a cut-out shape that makes it easier to step.
The choice of just such stairs for a home or a modern office is determined by various factors. One of them is the price.
An already finished structure, which is assembled in a couple of hours by two people, will cost less than ordering it from local craftsmen. And the materials in the Italian copies are reliable.
Types by materials
For many centuries, the traditional materials in Italy for the manufacture of stairs were:
- stone (marble, granite);
- wood of valuable species.
Today they are also used, but more modern materials are also widespread, cheaper, but no less durable and effective:
- concrete;
- metal;
- glass;
- plastic.
Wooden
Classic Italian wood staircases blend wonderfully with different interiors. The form and refined finish are characterized by elegance and harmony. Spatial design solutions with their use are pleasing to the eye and give the room chic and comfort (see also the article Restoration of a wooden staircase: nuances of work in detail).
The key to the popularity of wooden structures is the undoubted nobility of the material combined with wide technological capabilities.
Concrete
Concrete stairs are a modern solution. They are as beautiful as wooden or marble models, but their reliability and durability are significantly superior to the former and are not inferior to the latter at all (read also the article Do-it-yourself concrete stairs: tips and tricks).
Modular concrete stairs from Italy are distinguished by their ease of installation and a variety of models. Installation of such structures can be carried out even in ready-made interiors. The use of modular concrete staircases in the design gives architects the opportunity to diversify the finishing materials for the steps.
The following can be used as a covering for steps:
- ceramic tiles (see also the article Tiles for stair steps: selection, nuances and recommendations);
- ceramic granite;
- polymer materials.
Summary
The special attention that Italian designers and manufacturers pay to the impeccability of aesthetic forms, constant search and improvement, makes them the leaders in their industry.
The widest choice always allows you to find a suitable option for a modern cottage or an old mansion. In the video presented in this article, you will find additional information on this topic.