A staircase has first and foremost a practical function, as a connection between two spaces on different levels. It is therefore essential for circulation in a building. As a result, the staircase plays a leading role in the cultural perception of buildings. This interaction has ensured a wide range of variants, from straight staircases and staircases with landings via spiral staircases and winding staircases to staircase towers and stairwells. Technical developments have led to a wide variety of materials, such as concrete and aluminium, and the invention of new stair systems, like the escalator in the nineteenth century.
"Both the various functions of a staircase and its impact on the experience of a building explain its importance in the design."‐ Dirk Laureys, collectiebeheerder
Jean-François Neufforge, 18th century engraving of varoius stair shapes
Anonymous staircase design for a neoclassical house in Lier, 1808
Emiel Van Averbeke, staircase for a private residence, c. 1902
Eduard Van Steenbergen, stair house Lyssens-Peeters in Brasschaat, c. 1932
Eduard Van Steenbergen, stair atheneum Deurne, end 1930s
Eduard Van Steenbergen, sketch of a staircase, 1920s
Renaat Braem, Victor Maeremans and Hendrik Maes, staircase social housing complex in the neighbourhood Kiel in Antwerp, c. 1957
Jul De Roover, stair library in Antwerp (Deurne), end 1960s
Léon Stynen and Paul De Meyer, entrance hall with stair in the apartment-, shopping- and office building De Zonnewijzer, c. 1957
Roger Groothaert, stair house Timmermans in Antwerp (Wilrijk), 1957
Bob Van Reeth, stair of his own house in the Mechelen's beguinage, c. 1970
Léon Stynen and Paul De Meyer, stair Royal Flanders Music Conservatoire in Antwerp, end 1960sWould you like to consult an archive?
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