Witches’ stairs are a strange but interesting design feature that became popular on TikTok a couple of years ago. Even though they have an unusual history, their name doesn’t really have to do with superstition. Instead, these stairs are a clever design choice. When made and installed correctly, they can be both useful and nice to look at!
Witches’ Stairs aren’t what they Appear.
While the stories about witches’ stairs might sound more interesting, they actually have a very practical purpose. They are really useful in homes with little space, like attics, lofts, and tiny houses. Witches’ stairs are designed to save space while still allowing you to go from one floor to another. Architects often call them “alternate tread stairs.”
How Witches’ Stairs Function
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Witches’ stairs are designed to save space in two ways. First, each step is only half as wide as regular steps, and the steps are staggered. This makes the staircase narrower than a traditional one. These smaller stairs can also be used for extra storage, like for books or displaying items. According to Scott Schuttner, who wrote “Basic Stairbuilding,” the distance between the steps on one side of an alternating-tread stair is twice the height of the rise, which gives you more space on the steps and makes them safer.
Besides being practical, witches’ stairs meet building codes and safety standards in the U.S. A standard staircase is usually 3 feet wide, while a residential witches’ staircase is typically between 27 and 30 inches wide.
Real Origins
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In 1985, a businessman named J.M. Lapeyre created a metal version of witches’ stairs. He thought these stairs could be a safe alternative to ladders in commercial and warehouse settings, especially in tight spaces where ladders might not be safe. This design is also used on commercial ships and oil rigs, and it can be called ship stairs or ship ladders, in addition to witches’ stairs and alternate tread stairs.
Misconception
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When videos of witches’ stairs first appeared on TikTok in 2021, they were linked to an urban legend. According to this legend, these staircases were built in 17th-century Massachusetts to keep witches away during the Salem witch trials because “witches can’t climb up them.” This idea has been proven false, but another rumor suggests that Thomas Jefferson came up with the design. Because of this, witches’ stairs are sometimes called Jeffersonian or Jefferson stairs. However, an original version of the design was also mentioned in a book called “Monckton’s One Plane Method Of Hand Railing and Stair Building,” published in 1888.
Debunking the Myth
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The exact origins of witches’ stairs are a bit unclear, but one thing is clear: there’s no historical evidence that they were designed to keep witches away. Historian Robin Briggs has studied many historical sources and found no mention of stairs that could disable witches. Interestingly, some people with these unique staircases also buried “witch bottles” or included dead cats in their homes for protection against witchcraft, but Briggs calls this idea “pure disinformation.” He notes that the closest belief was that putting a broom over the door would trap a witch inside.
While it’s fun to think about myths and legends, it’s also interesting to know the real history of witches’ stairs. Regardless, they offer a unique and decorative alternative to regular staircases, adding a fun and quirky touch to home design.
Саthеrinе Zеtа-Jоnеs’ dаughtеr is grоwing uр fаst, аnd shе lооks just likе hеr fаmоus mоm
Growing up in the intense glare that accompanies having two well-known Hollywood stars for parents can’t be easy.
Though there are certainly worse circumstances in which to be born, Dylan Michael and Carys Zeta Douglas, the children of Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones, will probably never lack for anything, to put it mildly.
The media has been following Dylan and Carys’ development with interest, with many wondering if they would follow in the footsteps of their famous parents and become famous themselves.
It looks likе we have an answer now, at least for Carys.
Zeta-Jones has been candid in admitting that she expected both of her kids to follow her onto the big screen—or try to.
In an interview with Hello! Magazine, the 49-year-old stated: “You want to look at them when they’re on stage.” They also have an interest in the craft. My son wishes to pursue a bachelor’s degree in theater. Up to the age of five, my daughter believed acting was a better career choice than being a pediatrician.
Many people are interested in following the developments of the two children, as they both want to follow in the footsteps of their parents. The recent buzz surrounding Carys, who has been drawing a lot of attention for the simple reason that she is beginning to resemble her mother more and more every day, is sufficient evidence for those in need of it.
The teenager created a lot of buzz when she made her runway debut at New York Fashion Week the previous year.
Since then, she has remained under the radar, which is understandable given that she is only 15 years old. However, this week, the radio silence was broken when she went to another fashion event with her mother.
At the Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda women’s couture event hosted at the New York Metropolitan Opera House, Carys and Catherine stole the show. Mother and daughter arrived wearing matching clothes, and they posed for several photos that showcased their resemblance.
Carys is undoubtedly growing into a stunning woman, much likе her mother. Furthermore, from all reports, she has an equally kind personality!
If you likе Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones, please shаrе this post.
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