J.Neal Architecture & Design

DREXLER STAIR DESIGN

These custom stairs went through many iterations before coming to fruition. The stair design for the space in question was paramount to the project; central to the studio, immediately confronted upon entry and incorporated into an atrium/lightwell tied to a skylight above that unifies the whole building. The design process was delicate. Each tread was cut down from historic reclaimed wood timbers sourced from deconstructed apple cider mill in nearby Shenandoah Valley. The sourced 12×12 timbers were first cut down into six foot lengths, then notched to a depth of six inches for half their span; the notched portion creating an open riser stair with the remaining timber used structurally and tied to supports above at the center. The whole volume is hanging from the ceiling, and the stair is in effect cantilevered to itself creating the illusion of an upside down stair doubling back on itself reminiscent of the work of surrealist artist M.C. Escher.

ENTRY OF DREXLER STUDIO WITH STAIR TREAD REPURPOSED INTO BENCH.

CONSTRUCTION SHOT

MOUNTING BRACKETS

 PAPER PROCESS MODELS