Title: Design a set of stairs.
Course: Drafting: Architectural (21102-III) > Section: Performing Architectural Drafting and Design Operations with Extensive Use of CADD

Design should include freehand sketches and consideration of consumer needs. The home’s architectural style influences the designer’s choice(s) for type(s) of stairs; options include

- straight run
- L stairs
- double L stairs
- U stairs
- winder stairs
- spiral stairs.

The designer should select materials for treads, stringers, risers, railings, balusters, and newel posts. The designer calculates

- total stair rise, based on material used in the home
- stair unit rise and run, based on standard rise/run formulas, the desired slope, and building codes
- total run
- total headroom
- stairwell opening.

Process/Skill Questions:

- Why is it important that all unit risers are exactly the same in a set of stairs?
- How do unit rise and unit run determine the slope of a set of stairs?
- Why must building codes be consulted when designing a set of stairs?