What Are Witches’ Stairs? The Bizarre Home Design Choice Explained

A distinctive architectural feature known as witches’ stairs gained attention on TikTok a couple of years ago, sparking curiosity due to its unusual design. Despite its intriguing name, the history behind these stairs defies superstition, proving to be both functional and visually appealing.

Contrary to popular belief, witches’ stairs aren’t rooted in superstition. They serve a practical purpose, especially in homes with limited space, often found in attics, lofts, and tiny houses. Architects refer to them as ‘alternate tread stairs,’ designed to optimize space while facilitating movement between floors.

Staircase with wavy steps with a trash bag and floor mat in the background.

Witches’ stairs feature narrow steps staggered to save space, providing functionality without sacrificing safety. Additionally, they can serve as storage areas for books or decorative items. These stairs meet building codes and safety standards, with residential versions typically spanning 27 to 30 inches in width, narrower than standard staircases.

In 1985, entrepreneur J.M. Lapeyre patented a metal version of witches’ stairs, originally conceived as a safer alternative to ladders in commercial and warehouse settings. The design, also known as ship stairs or alternate tread stairs, found utility in various industries beyond residential use.

Despite urban legends associating witches’ stairs with 17th-century Massachusetts and the Salem witch trials, historical evidence contradicts these claims. The true origins remain somewhat obscure, but there’s no basis for the belief that these stairs were intended to deter witches.

While the true history of witches’ stairs may elude us, their distinctive design adds character and functionality to modern spaces. Whether considered a quirky decor choice or a practical innovation, witches’ stairs continue to captivate and intrigue.

Related Posts

Ladies, when a man scratches the palm of your hand, here’s what you can do

What It Means When a Man Scratches a Woman’s Palm—And How to Respond When a man subtly scratches a woman’s palm during a handshake or touch, it…

Student Forgot $27 Bitcoin Investment—Years Later, It Made Him A Millionaire

He Spent $27 on Bitcoin—and Forgot About It. Years Later, He Was a Millionaire In 2009, 25-year-old Kristoffer Koch made a spontaneous decision after reading Bitcoin’s original…

Why Do Jeans Get Weird Ripples After Washing?

Why Your Jeans Ripple After Washing — and How to Prevent It Ever pulled your favorite jeans from the dryer only to find weird ripples or waves…

Award Winning Actress Passed Away At 43

Belgian Actress Émilie Dequenne Dies at 43 Émilie Dequenne, acclaimed Belgian actress best known for her award-winning role in Rosetta, has died at age 43. Her agent,…

A Final Road Home: Father and Two Children Killed After Camping Trip Ends in Tragedy

Queensland Crash Claims Father and Two Children in Devastating Tragedy What was meant to be the joyful end of a family camping trip turned tragic on July…

Ozzy Osbourne’s Final Goodbye: The Pain, Redemption & Legacy Behind the Prince of Darkness

Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary rock icon who reshaped music history, spent decades battling addiction that nearly destroyed his family. In a resurfaced interview, Ozzy admitted the devastating…