In recent years both free-standing and geometric staircases have become quite popular. Many variations exist, such as spiral, helical, and elliptical staircases, and combinations of these. A number of researchers have come forward with different concepts in the fields of analytical and numerical design and of experimental methods and assessments. The aim of this book is to cover all these methods and to present them with greater simplicity to practising engineers. Staircases is divided into five chapters: Specifications and basic data on staircases; Structural analysis of staircases – Classical methods; Structural analysis of staircases – Modern methods; Staircases and their analysis – A comparative study; Design analysis and structural detailing. Charts and graphs are included and numerous design examples are given of freestanding and other geometric staircases and of their elements and components. These examples are related to the case studies which were based on staircases that have already been constructed. All examples are checked using various Eurocodes. The book includes bibliographical references and is supported by two appendices, which will be of particular interest to those practising engineers who wish to make a comparative study of the different practices and code requirements used by various countries; detailed drawings are included from the USA, Britain, Europe and Asia. Staircases will serve as a useful text for teachers preparing design syllabi for undergraduate and post graduate courses. Each major section contains a full explanation which allows the book to be used by students and practising engineers, particularly those facing the formidable task of having to design/ detail complicated staircases with unusual boundary conditions. Contractors will also find this book useful in the preparation of construction drawings and manufacturers will be interested in the guidance given.

The staircase dates back to the very beginning of architectural history. Virtually every significant building from the ziggurats of ancient Mesopotamia to the present day, has not only contained one or more staircases, but has celebrated them. For such an apparently simple part of a building they have been made in a bewildering variety of forms and from a wide range of materials. Every age has sought to out-perform the previous to produce ever more spectacular and gravity-defying designs. 'Staircases: History, Repair and Conservation' is the first major reference volume devoted entirely to the understanding of staircases and the issues surrounding their repair and conservation. Each chapter has been especially written by experts in their respective fields. The book is essential reading for professionals and anyone with an interest in staircases. It deals with the history; dating; archaeology; surveying and recording; engineering; curating; repair and conservation of the staircase in a single volume. No other book offers such a wide range of detail. The book is divided into three parts: Part 1 covers the history, development, identification and dating of staircases, providing detailed drawings and photographs and an introduction to the scientific techniques available to enable the accurate dating of staircases. Part 2 covers the design, engineering and maintenance of the staircase, giving a clear guide to the latest research into the design of safe staircases and their structural stability. Part 3 focuses on the materials commonly used to make stairs, detailing the appropriate techniques for their conservation and repair. The result is a comprehensive study encompassing considerable and far reaching research which aims to inform our understanding and advance the scholarship of the subject for years to come.

"This [book] is the first one that I can recall that deals exclusively with this single subject, and does so with such thoroughness. Its 10 chapters cover all the essentials, ...many color photos and drawings...explain and expand on the text. It offers great value for the price."--"Wood Design & Building."

The new Detail in Building series provides a foundation of contemporary design data covering key elements of building design. Such essential elements are part of the vocabulary of contemporary architecture, and future titles in the series will include canopies, parapets, entrance doors, rooflights and windows. Each building element will be clearly analysed both historically and in terms of contemporary examples by leading practices around the world. The combination of building context, design aesthetics and technical solution as revealed in the case studies will be highly informative as well as unique, in a field where specific technical quality in design detailing is often underexposed by the superficial presentation of entire schemes. Launching this new series, Staircases examines ten key stair designs that are both excellent in composition and successful in use. Introducing the case studies is a fully illustrated history of the staircase from its origins, through the Renaissance, and eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, to the remarkable virtuosity displayed by twentieth-century designers. The book includes work by Sir Norman Foster, Herman Hertzberger, Will Alsop, Eva Jiricna and Richard Meier. Each example is analysed through detailed drawings and photographs, and the solution examined in full context. The result will be inspirational to students and designers alike, proving an invaluable tool in design.

Staircases are one of the most intriguing of architectural elements as well as engineering miracles. This guide showcases 50 brilliant staircase designs by today's leading architects, in locations ranging from a private home in Finland to a Chicago apartment building.

From Popular Mechanics (9.6 million readers every month), the hands-down experts on the subject of how things work, comes the most complete and up-to-date DIY guide ever published. This highly sophisticated household manual will instantly become the gold standard for anybody who fixes anything. Filled with color photos, drawings, and diagrams, this encyclopedic how-to covers every area of concern to house and apartment owners, with information on planning ahead; decorating; repairs and improvements; security; infestation, rot, and d& electricity; plumbing; heating; outdoor care; and tools and skills. And it’s easy to find the solution to the particular problem that concerns you, without having to go from page to page of continuous text: the straightforward design breaks down the subjects into clearly defined, color-coded chapters. So whether you’re looking for advice on applying finishes, adding decorative paint effects, constructing walls, fixing the roof, or installing a burglar alarm, the instructions are here. • National Publicity • Cross Marketing on the Website, PM zone • Featured in PM’s “Great Stuff Column” • Featured in PM E-Newsletter (125,000 subscribers) • Included in PM “Wish List for Guys” Gift Registry • Advertising in PM Magazine