Double Helix Staircases & Helical Stairs by Arcways

The Helical Staircase by Arcways:
A Spiral Staircase without a Center Post

When your plan calls for a space-efficient staircase with a huge WOW! factor, helical stairs are perfect. Rather than a traditional center post, the staircase is built with the clever helical structure invented by Mother Nature. It’s a strong, functional staircase with a distinctive presence. No matter the size, the helical staircase offers a sculptural element that’s incredibly distinctive.

Helical stairways built by Arcways are often difficult to categorize. While the distinctive helical shape is there, the stairs can take on very different personalities based on their purpose and location. Some helical stairs are built for areas where space is at a premium, and they are often more like spiral stairs in their efficiency. In other cases, helical stairs provide a dramatic art form unequalled by any other shape. In many cases, our helical stairs take center stage in a home or office and anchor the entire design concept.

What’s the difference between a spiral stair and a helical stairway?
Often, the main difference between the two styles of stairs is the use of a center column. With spiral stairs, the center column serves as a visual and structural anchor. On the other hand, helical stairs take their shape from nature. (Most commonly the helix is known as the molecular shape of DNA.) Often, helical stairs offer two handrails and have the feeling more of a traditional curved stair. For some people, it’s a more familiar feel. Since helical stairs don’t have that center column, they’re technically curved stairs – with the helix providing the shape of the curve.

Why use a helical stairway?
Though helical staircases can sometimes take slightly more room than a spiral stair, the design impact more than makes up for the space. Helical staircases often become the single most defining architectural statement in the room. They’re stunning and original.