Many commercial buildings have (or once had) exterior stairwells or staircases. Most need some type of enclosure. Solutions have changed over the years; here are three different sets of stairs – each is an interesting survivor:
Sleek 60’s Aluminum
This short flight of steps is given stature with a vertical emphasis and sleek styling crafted in aluminum – c. 1960’s.
A very elegant interface between handrail and uprights.
Iron Stairwell – 2nd quarter of the 20th century
White paint makes the unusual design stand out.
Just as interesting from the other side!
A view inside. Note the manhole cover beneath the first step!
And the underside!
70’s smoked plexiglass chic!
Smoked transparent panels with rounded aluminum frames… I miss the 70’s.
Descending to a basement level never felt so cool.