Every building taller than one story has a very important common element - the stairs. They are an essential structure for crossing height differences. Having fulfilled this functional requirement, the architect has a lot of elbowroom in designing and constructing. As a preferred meeting place or a setting for public events, step for step, the stairs ensure communication and movement. Symbolically connecting Heaven and Earth, they invariably embody transition and variation.

The volume examines the architectural plurality of the urban stairwell. From pared-down treads, to refined steps leading to breathtaking heights and to commanding open-air persons - the richly illustrated volume takes the reader on a foray through Europe. You are invited to join the discovery tour examining the differences and similarities in stairs found from city to city.