Besides fulfilling their traditional function, stairs have become an almost sculptural element in building. This volume comprises a complete study of stairs, from their technical details to the realization of the projects. The examples used are drawn from the work of recognized architects and that of innovative young masters in the field, thereby explaining the most interesting solutions in this fascinating area of architecture: details of the width and height and shape of steps, their structural systems, balusters, proportions, and alternative types, etc. Illustrated with hundreds of full-color, glossy photographs, plans, tables and specific diagrams, this book is specifically designed to be a valuable source of technical and inspirational information, for students as well as for the fully-fledged architect and building professional.