Stairs are a structure designed to bridge a large vertical distance between lower and higher levels by dividing it into smaller vertical distances. This is achieved as a diagonal series of horizontal platforms called steps which enable passage to the other level by stepping from one to another step in turn. Steps are very typically rectangular. Stairs may be straight, round, or may consist of two or more straight pieces connected at angles.
Steps with two anti-slip rubber strips and small nosings
Neo-Baroque stairs with intricate wooden balustrade
Staircase with double bullnose and two volutes. An intermediate landing is part of this U-shaped stair.
Handrail and carved balusters
A stairwell or stair room is a room in a building where a stair is located, and is used to connect walkways between floors so that one can move in height. Collectively, a set of stairs and a stairwell is referred to as a staircase or stairway. In buildings with several housing units, a stairway can be a necessary common area for getting to and from apartments.
Stairway with skylight
Spiral staircase (double helix) in the Vatican Museums
Escape route via stairs with open steps
Model of the cupboard under the staircase where the character Harry Potter grew up
