A staircase can be any size or shape. The helical staircase is one of the most striking in residential and commercial spaces. An average room can be transformed into something extraordinary with these curving beauties.
In this Brick & Bolt article, we’ll look at what makes helical staircases special. We’ll also examine their advantages, disadvantages, and differences from spiral stairs. You’ll be able to determine whether a helical staircase is a good fit for your house or business.
What is a Helical Staircase?
A helical staircase is a spiral staircase that curves and flows smoothly upward. Due to the absence of a central pole or column, it differs from conventional stairs.
Rather, the steps revolve around an open space in the center. Everyone notices the smooth, flowing shape this creates. Depending on the space’s needs and the designer’s taste, the curvature could be loose or tight.
Where are they found? When you walk in, look up in the rich hotel lobby spaces, grand homes, high-end boutiques, contemporary office buildings, and art galleries. These striking stairs are often the focal point of the room. They’re a design statement, not just a means of building component one floor from another!
Advantages of a Helical Staircase
Helical staircases are beneficial in numerous ways to be considered:
- They provide a stunning appearance. Helical stairs carry a flowing, aesthetic design that can turn any room into an elegant one.
- They are space-saving. The curved structure can accommodate areas of corners or circular rooms where straight stairs may not fit.
- It has no center post. Being free of a central column, helical stairs provide an airy sensation and facilitate smoother movement.
- It is more comfortable. The larger steps on the outer edge are less tiring to climb than those of some other curved stairs.
- It adds value to your space. A nicely designed helical staircase enriches your property and attracts potential buyers.
- It enhances natural light flow. The open configuration radiates light, creating a feeling of a brighter, more open space.
Disadvantages of Helical Staircase
Even though they are beautiful, helical staircases have some disadvantages:
- It costs a greater amount. Helical Staircases tend to be more expensive than regular stairs due to their complicated design and make.
- It requires more space to build. Helical stairs generally need more floor space than spiral stairs.
- It involves a complex installation process. Building a helical staircase often requires skilled workers and precise measurements.
- You may face some building code issues. Certain helical designs may not comply with local building codes for primary staircases.
- It consists of handrail specifications. The curved profile can complicate proper handrail installation. So, following the specifications is crucial for some complex designs.
Features of Helical Staircase
Curved Structure
Helical stairs are defined by their flowing, smooth curve, which also produces graceful movement around the room. This unbroken curve travels in a helical pattern with no stops or landings. It is the center of the design’s functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Open Center
Helical stairs have an open center section, in contrast to spiral staircases that revolve around a central pole. This gives the building more room, enhances visibility, and lets light in. The staircase looks brighter and cozier due to its open form.
Consistent Step Width
In contrast to spiral staircases, helical staircases retain a more uniform step width throughout. They are safer and more comfortable to use because of their constant width, particularly when descending. The stairway allows users to keep their normal walking rhythm.
Specific Materials
Concrete, glass, stone, metal, wood, or a combination of these materials are employed to build helical staircases. Due to its versatility, they can be applied to any interior design plan or architectural type. The material chosen affects structural integrity as well as appearance.
Floating Look
Many modern helical staircases are designed to appear as if they float in mid-air. Protruding straight from walls, cantilevered, or hidden supports are utilized to achieve this. Architectural suspense and visual drama are created through the floating effect.
Customized Railings
To suit any design concept, the railing systems may be constructed out of solid panels, wrought iron, glass, or cable systems. Besides serving as an important part of the architecture of the staircase, such railing designs are safe. These can be used as a feature or can camouflage with the surrounding environment.
How Helical Staircases Are Constructed?
Building a helical staircase takes skill and careful planning:
1. Design Phase
Architects create detailed plans based on the space and building requirements. They include precise measurements and calculations to ensure the staircase is safe. The design must look good while also meeting all building codes.
2. Foundation Preparation
A strong foundation supports these often self-supporting stairs. The base must handle both the staircase weight and people walking on it. Workers reinforce connection points where the stairs meet the building.
3. Central Structure
For concrete helical stairs, workers build a curved concrete beam that follows the stair’s path. This beam forms the spine of the entire staircase. Custom wooden forms shape the concrete into the perfect curve.
4. Steel Reinforcement
Steel bars are placed in the concrete to strengthen the structure. These rebars follow specific patterns to handle the forces in the curved design. The steel prevents cracking and ensures the staircase remains sturdy over time.
5. Step Formation
The steps are formed one by one, often using special molds. Each step sits at a precise angle to create comfortable steps along the curve. Workers ensure all steps have matching heights and depths for safety.
6. Finishing Work
Once the basic structure is complete, workers finish the steps with the chosen materials. They apply wood, stone, or other surfaces to the raw structure. This phase transforms the structural element into an attractive feature.
7. Railing Installation
Railings are added last, carefully fitted to the curved shape. The supports and handrails follow the exact curve of the staircase. Installation requires custom pieces that match the unique shape of each helical staircase.
Helical Staircase vs. Spiral Staircase
Several differences between helical staircase and spiral staircase are as follows:
| S.no | Feature | Helical Staircase | Spiral Staircase |
| 1 | Central Pole | It has no center pole | It has a center pole |
| 2 | Shape | Helical staircases curve smoothly. | This forms a tight circle. |
| 3 | Design | It looks open and wide. | It looks small and tight. |
| 4 | Climbing Comfort | It is easy and comfortable to climb | It can be steep and narrow. |
| 5 | Looks | It looks modern and stylish | It looks simple and classic. |
Conclusion
Helical staircases look amazing and work great too. Unlike regular straight stairs, these open, winding beauties flow through space naturally. Yes, they cost more and take up extra room compared to normal stairs, but many homeowners feel the wow-factor is worth every penny.
Before designing this, make sure you’ve got enough space, a well-defined budget, and check your local building codes. A good helical staircase, when properly installed, becomes the talking point of your home for years.
Looking to make a real statement in your renovation or new build? Brick & Bolt can help you create that dramatic effect you’re looking for.
Apoorva H P Achar