Clever use of materials and shape can create a sculptural focal point in a room. Credit: Architect Your Home
You won't need planning permission to change your stairs, but you will have to comply with building regulations so that safety isn't compromised.
The maximum pitch - or angle - allowed is 42 degrees, and the treads - the flat bits you step on - should be a minimum of 22cm deep, while the risers - the vertical parts - must be no more than 22cm apart.
Staircases under one metre wide should have a handrail at least 90cm high on one side, and on both sides if wider than one metre, so completely open structures aren't allowed.
Also on the 'banned' list are wide gaps in the design, as the maximum opening permitted between spindles or balustrades is 10cm.
In most cases the opening in the floor is the most complex and expensive thing to sort out – something to bear in mind if you're thinking about moving the staircase. Bespoke designs start at around £3,000 but be prepared to pay £25,000 upwards for an architect-designed, no-expense-spared, contemporary stunner.
Bisca
Contemporary architectural staircases
www.bisca.co.uk
Architect Your Home
Pay-as-you-go design and advice
www.architect-yourhome.com
RIBA
Royal Institute of British Architects
www.architecture.com
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