When is a Stair More Than a Stair?

When is a stair more than a stair? Playing on the intrinsic function of stairs as a way of connecting people and places, casual seating is often part of a stair design. Sometimes just the steps themselves create the seating.

RedHat, Boston. Photo © Robert Benson Photography.

Laterally extending the last few steps and adding cushions makes a great space for a quick break with abundant natural light.

HubSpot, Cambridge, MA. Photo © Robert Benson

Classic bleachers add a collegial touch.

Confidential Client, London. Photography © Hufton+Crow.

Minimalistic stadium stairs offer a view of London.

LinkedIn, Chicago. Photo © Eric Laignel

Stairs provide plenty of seating using very little space.

Confidential client, San Francisco. Photo © Japer Sanidad

For a casual briefing, the stairs provide a platform.

IA is a global firm of architects, designers, strategists, and specialists. We focus exclusively on environments through the lens of interior architecture—a radical idea in 1984, when IA was founded. We are highly connected agents of change, committed to creativity, innovation, growth, and community.

Share0

Tweet0

Share0

Tweet0

Share0

Taking the Inside Out

Taking the Inside OutThe Profitable PropertyCo-Authored By Michelle Atkinson (Managing Director, Houston Studio) &Madeline Drone, (Design Director, Houston Studio) Identifying and building on a property’s unique differentiator is at the core …continued.

The Confluence of Design and the Social Sciences

The Confluence of Design & the Social SciencesBy Madalyn Yovanoff | Senior Designer, Philadelphia Studio The sociology of space and architecture—how the built environment can cue and support positive individual …continued.

Democratizing Intelligence

Democratizing IntelligenceBy AIRIA, IA’s Artificial Intelligence Research Team Artificial intelligence is not just a technological advancement; it is a powerful tool that can eventually transform how we live and work. …continued.