Witches’ stairs have recently gained attention for their unique design and historical curiosity. While their name might evoke images of folklore and magic, these intriguing stairs were actually born out of practicality. The truth behind witches’ stairs, also known as “alternate tread stairs,” combines functional architecture with a hint of mystery, making them a fascinating addition to homes with limited space.

What Are Witches’ Stairs?

Witches’ stairs are a type of staircase designed to take up less space than traditional stairs. They alternate tread placement, with each step staggered so that the left and right feet land on separate treads, creating a “zigzag” effect. This configuration allows for a narrower staircase, saving precious space in compact homes, attics, or lofts.

While witches’ stairs have been making rounds on TikTok and other social media, they’re not a new architectural concept. They’re designed to be both functional and safe and have a certain aesthetic appeal. Their practical purpose aside, they come with a unique charm that has captured the curiosity of homeowners, designers, and history buffs alike.

The Functionality Behind Witches’ Stairs

In terms of utility, witches’ stairs offer two main advantages. First, the staggered design allows each step to be half as wide as traditional steps, resulting in a staircase that requires far less space. Second, the alternation in tread levels makes the staircase steeper, allowing it to fit into tight areas without compromising accessibility.

Scott Schuttner, author of “Basic Stairbuilding,” explains that the tread placement allows for a larger stepping area on each side, which contributes to the staircase’s stability and comfort. Though unconventional, alternate tread stairs meet U.S. building code requirements for safety, making them a viable option for small or unique spaces.

Witches’ Stairs in Modern Homes

Today, witches’ stairs have found a place in contemporary architecture and design, especially in tiny homes, lofts, and studios where space is at a premium. Architects and interior designers often turn to witches’ stairs as a creative solution that doubles as storage. Many homeowners use the narrow space underneath to store books, display items, or even add small drawers, maximizing functionality.

In standard construction, a staircase typically requires three feet of width, but a witches’ staircase can fit comfortably within 27 to 30 inches. This difference might not sound substantial, but it can make all the difference in tight quarters, turning an unused nook into a viable pathway between floors.

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The Origins of Witches’ Stairs: Fact or Folklore?

While the practical benefits of witches’ stairs are clear, their name and rumored origins add a layer of intrigue. The term “witches’ stairs” supposedly originated in New England, where folklore suggests that these staircases were built to confuse or trap witches. Some believe that witches, according to local superstition, could not climb these alternating steps, making these stairs a kind of architectural ward against evil.

However, this theory has largely been debunked. Historians have found no concrete evidence that these staircases were ever built specifically to keep witches at bay. The concept of witches’ stairs became popularized through modern storytelling, rather than any genuine historical purpose.

Another common legend claims that Thomas Jefferson himself invented this style of staircase, giving rise to the nickname “Jefferson stair.” Yet, there’s no documentation to suggest that Jefferson had any involvement in designing these stairs. The first recorded mention of alternate tread stairs appears in the 1888 book “Monckton’s One Plane Method of Hand Railing and Stair Building.” So, while these stairs may have an intriguing backstory, it’s more likely rooted in practicality than in mystical superstition.

Alternate Tread Stairs in Commercial Settings

In addition to their residential applications, alternate tread stairs have made their way into commercial and industrial spaces. The modern version of these stairs was patented in 1985 by J.M. Lapeyre, who envisioned a safe and efficient alternative to ladders. They became known as “ship stairs” or “ship ladders,” commonly used on commercial ships, oil rigs, and even in tight warehouse spaces. Their steep design allows them to fit where full staircases can’t, offering safe passage for workers in compact, utilitarian spaces.

Lapeyre’s alternate tread stairs served as a space-efficient alternative to traditional ladders, providing the safety and functionality of a staircase without taking up valuable room. This modern adaptation highlights the timeless practicality of the witches’ stair design, showing that some architectural solutions never go out of style.

Debunking the Myths: Why Witches’ Stairs Aren’t Really for Witches

The myths surrounding witches’ stairs became particularly popular in 2021, when TikTok users shared spooky stories about their purpose. One theory claimed that these stairs were intentionally built to protect homes from witches, as the steep and staggered design would supposedly prevent witches from ascending. Another myth suggested that witches’ stairs were commonly found in 17th-century Massachusetts homes during the Salem witch trials, where residents feared supernatural visitors.

However, historians and architectural experts confirm that there is no documented link between these staircases and the Salem witch trials. The association between witches and alternate tread stairs appears to be a modern-day exaggeration rather than an actual historical belief. In fact, no evidence supports the claim that these stairs were built to ward off witches. As folklore expert Robin Briggs clarifies, the concept that witches’ stairs could “disable” witches is pure fiction.

The Enduring Appeal of Witches’ Stairs

Despite the debunked myths, witches’ stairs continue to capture our imagination. Their steep and unique design sets them apart from conventional staircases, adding a whimsical and unconventional element to a home’s interior. They’re not only a space-saver but also a conversation starter, giving any room a sense of character and creativity.

For homeowners who appreciate a blend of vintage style and functionality, witches’ stairs offer a charming solution. Their mystique, combined with practical advantages, makes them an appealing option for those who value both form and function in design.

Conclusion: Witches’ Stairs – An Architectural Delight with a Hint of Mystery

While the tales of witches’ stairs keeping witches away may be just that—tales—these staircases remain a fascinating architectural feature. They’re an innovative solution for small spaces, designed for practicality, and stand as a testament to creative design through the ages. Whether you’re a fan of folklore or simply in need of a space-saving staircase, witches’ stairs offer a unique addition to any home.

So, the next time you see a staircase with an unusual tread pattern, remember that it’s not just an oddity; it’s a clever, timeless solution wrapped in a bit of mystery. And who knows? It might just bring a little charm—or perhaps a little magic—to your space.