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

Unveiling Witches’ Stairs

A distinctive architectural feature known as witches’ stairs gained attention on TikTok a couple of years ago, sparking curiosity due to its unusual design. Despite its

 

intriguing name, the history behind these stairs defies superstition, proving to be both functional and visually appealing.

Witches' stairs

The Misconception: Clarifying Origins

Contrary to popular belief, witches’ stairs aren’t rooted in superstition. They serve a practical purpose, especially in homes with limited space, often found in attics, lofts, and tiny houses. Architects refer to them as ‘alternate tread stairs,’ designed to optimize space while facilitating movement between floors.

Staircase with wavy steps with a trash bag and floor mat in the background.

Functional Design: Maximizing Space

Witches’ stairs feature narrow steps staggered to save space, providing functionality without sacrificing safety. Additionally, they can serve as storage areas for books or decorative items. These stairs meet building codes and safety standards, with residential versions typically spanning 27 to 30 inches in width, narrower than standard staircases.

Staircase appearing like boxes.

Real Origins: A Practical Innovation

In 1985, entrepreneur J.M. Lapeyre patented a metal version of witches’ stairs, originally conceived as a safer alternative to ladders in commercial and warehouse settings. The design, also known as ship stairs or alternate tread stairs, found utility in various industries beyond residential use.

Zig Zag staircase

Debunking Myths: Separating Fact from Fiction

Despite urban legends associating witches’ stairs with 17th-century Massachusetts and the Salem witch trials, historical evidence contradicts these claims. The true origins remain somewhat obscure, but there’s no basis for the belief that these stairs were intended to deter witches.

Unusually shaped staircase
Appreciating Unique DesignWhile the true history of witches’ stairs may elude us, their distinctive design adds character and functionality to modern spaces. Whether considered a quirky decor choice or a practic

Related Posts

Kaley Cuoco Bared It All — Fans Are in Shock!

Kaley Cuoco, known for her playful charm and bold personality, has once again turned heads — this time by baring it all in a jaw-dropping photoshoot. The…

Brandi Passante In See-through PANTlES Shows 0ff More Than She Wanted To

Brandy Passante, the fiery fan-favorite from Storage Wars, is setting the internet ablaze at 44 with a series of jaw-dropping photos that showcase her killer curves, confident vibe,…

The Sad Girl Marries a 70-Year-Old. 10 Day

When 26-year-old Yuki told her friends she was marrying 70-year-old Kenji, their reactions were full of shock and disbelief. “Girl, is he rich-rich?” one friend asked. But…

Missing 21-Year-Old Joyce Catherine Badon Found Dead After Texas Floods

Stories of two little girls who perished side by side at summer camp and a young woman who was swept away while phoning for assistance have left…

Old mans pens are more…See more

While the findings are still being discussed and debated in the scientific community, the suggestion is that exposure to semen might have subtle mood- enhancing effects, at…

Woman her husband on honeymoon after he refuses to …

What should have been the joyful start of a new life ended in death and deception in the hills of Shillong, India. On May 20, businessman Raja…

Leave a Reply

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