Stairs, Box

Definition

Box stairs are stairs built between walls, usually with no support except the wall.

Purpose

The purpose of box stairs is to provide a compact and space-efficient means of vertical circulation within a building, relying on the surrounding walls for support.

Examples of Use

• Residential homes often use box stairs in narrow hallways or tight spaces.
• Commercial buildings may employ box stairs in utility areas or as secondary staircases.
• Apartments and townhouses frequently feature box stairs to maximize usable floor space.

Related Terms

• Enclosed Staircase: A staircase that is surrounded by walls on all sides.
• Floating Stairs: Stairs that appear to be unsupported and are often attached to a wall for a minimalistic look.
• Stringer: The inclined support on which the treads and risers of a staircase are mounted.

Notes

Box stairs are typically designed to be sturdy and safe, with proper anchoring to the walls and compliance with building codes to ensure structural integrity and user safety.