240 Pages
    by Routledge

    240 Pages
    by Routledge

    Stairs are a fundamental and universal feature of buildings. The late Alan Blanc had a lifetime's obsession with stairs and steps and provided a definitive reference source that bridges the aesthetic and practical aspects of staircase design. His wife Sylvia, who worked with him on the first edition, presents this updated, abridged version alongside a complimentary web site where the historical elements of the subjects are described and discussed in pictures and diagrams.

    The book is a practical guide to designing circulation spaces. It is extensively detailed with working drawings and photographs. Construction methods using a variety of materials are discussed as well as the influence of new technology on vertical circulation. The guidance on codes and regulations covers the UK and US. The latest high profile international case studies inspire and inform the reader.

    Contents: Introduction; Chapter 1 Domestic Stairs; Chapter 2 Commercial Stairs; Chapter 3 Detailed construction: Chapter 4 Timber; Chapter 5 Detailed construction: iron, steel and other metals; Chapter 6 Concrete stairs; Chapter 7 Stonework and composite construction; Chapter 8 Design codes and procedures; Chapter 9 Elevators and mechanical circulation; Chapter 10 International case Studies. Appendix: Building regulations for US and UK.

    Complimentary web site content: Historical Review (Chapter 2 of original book); Historical introduction to domestic stairs, commercial stairs, external stairs, elevators and mechanical circulation.

    Biography

    Alan Blanc, Sylvia Blanc

    Reviews of the 1st edition:
    'Alan Blanc, without methodological nervousness, plunges in. The book is well served by numerous clear diagrams and plans... filled with practical realism and down-to-earth detail... a marvellous primer for every student.'
    The Architects' Journal

    'A worthwhile design aid. The structure is less systematic than pragmatic... an excellent work.'
    Detail

    'A fascinating book - not putting the book down is the best way to treat it.'
    The Architectural Review