What Are Witches’ Stairs? The Bizarre Home Design Choice Explained

Practical Purpose of Witches’ Stairs

Witches’ stairs, or alternate tread stairs, may seem mysterious, but they serve a practical purpose. These unique stairs are useful in homes with limited space, such as lofts, attics, and tiny houses. Contrary to popular belief, witches’ stairs were designed to save space while allowing easy access between floors.

What Are Witches' Stairs and Why Do They Even Exist?

How Witches’ Stairs Work

Witches’ stairs optimize space in two ways. First, each step is only half as wide as traditional steps. Second, the steps are staggered. This combination ensures the staircase is narrower than regular stairs, making it an efficient space-saving solution. These smaller staircases can also double as storage for books or display shelves for your treasures.

Safety and Compliance

Witches’ stairs comply with building codes and safety standards in the United States. Despite being narrower than standard staircases, they are designed to be safe and functional. A residential witches’ staircase is typically between 27 to 30 inches wide, providing enough space for comfortable and secure navigation.

Origins and History

The origins of witches’ stairs date back to 1985 when J.M. Lapeyre patented a metal version. Initially designed as an alternative to ladders in commercial settings, they are now used on commercial ships and oil rigs. They are also known as ship stairs or ship ladders.

Myths and Misconceptions

There are many myths about witches’ stairs, but there is no historical evidence linking them to witchcraft or the Salem witch trials. The idea that witches cannot climb these stairs is a myth. Additionally, the notion that Thomas Jefferson was involved in their design is unfounded. The true history of witches’ stairs remains unclear, but they are a unique and decorative alternative to traditional staircases, adding charm and character to any space.

Fascination and Functionality

Whether you are intrigued by myths or appreciate creative decor, witches’ stairs are an interesting piece of architectural history worth exploring.

fuk

Related Posts

At 5 She Was Dubbed As The Girl With The “Most Beautiful Hair”, But Wait Till You See How She Looks Today

Due to her lengthy, beautiful curls, a young girl of five is gaining fame online with around 94,000 followers on Instagram. Mia Aflalo, a native of Tel…

Beef and Barley Soup

This hearty beef and barley soup is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for a chilly day. The rich broth, tender beef, and chewy barley make for…

Gang finds unusually spiky creatures in nest – takes a closer look and jaws drop when they realize what kind of animals they are – OMG

There is now hope for a species that was on the brink of extinction.   A group of researchers in Australia is thrilled after their efforts to…

Little-known mistakes and bloopers in Pretty Woman

Pretty Woman is one of those movies I can watch countless times — it never gets old or boring. But considering how many times I’ve seen it, it’s…

This Barber’s Trick Left the Cowboy Speechless—You Won’t Believe What Happened Next!

An old cowboy walks into a barbershop for a shave and a haircut. He tells the barber he can’t get all his whiskers off because his cheeks…

A Mom Upset After Finding Teacher’s ‘Warning’ Message On Her 7-Year-Old’s Daughter’s

Seven-year-old Alyssa received a worksheet from her teacher containing an admonishment in red ink, which read: “Stop writing your name in cursive. You have had several warnings.”…

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *