Witches’ stairs are a strange but interesting design feature that became popular on TikTok a couple of years ago. Even though they have an unusual history, their name doesn’t really have to do with superstition. Instead, these stairs are a clever design choice. When made and installed correctly, they can be both useful and nice to look at!
Witches’ Stairs aren’t what they Appear.
While the stories about witches’ stairs might sound more interesting, they actually have a very practical purpose. They are really useful in homes with little space, like attics, lofts, and tiny houses. Witches’ stairs are designed to save space while still allowing you to go from one floor to another. Architects often call them “alternate tread stairs.”
How Witches’ Stairs Function
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Witches’ stairs are designed to save space in two ways. First, each step is only half as wide as regular steps, and the steps are staggered. This makes the staircase narrower than a traditional one. These smaller stairs can also be used for extra storage, like for books or displaying items. According to Scott Schuttner, who wrote “Basic Stairbuilding,” the distance between the steps on one side of an alternating-tread stair is twice the height of the rise, which gives you more space on the steps and makes them safer.
Besides being practical, witches’ stairs meet building codes and safety standards in the U.S. A standard staircase is usually 3 feet wide, while a residential witches’ staircase is typically between 27 and 30 inches wide.
Real Origins
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In 1985, a businessman named J.M. Lapeyre created a metal version of witches’ stairs. He thought these stairs could be a safe alternative to ladders in commercial and warehouse settings, especially in tight spaces where ladders might not be safe. This design is also used on commercial ships and oil rigs, and it can be called ship stairs or ship ladders, in addition to witches’ stairs and alternate tread stairs.
Misconception
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When videos of witches’ stairs first appeared on TikTok in 2021, they were linked to an urban legend. According to this legend, these staircases were built in 17th-century Massachusetts to keep witches away during the Salem witch trials because “witches can’t climb up them.” This idea has been proven false, but another rumor suggests that Thomas Jefferson came up with the design. Because of this, witches’ stairs are sometimes called Jeffersonian or Jefferson stairs. However, an original version of the design was also mentioned in a book called “Monckton’s One Plane Method Of Hand Railing and Stair Building,” published in 1888.
Debunking the Myth
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The exact origins of witches’ stairs are a bit unclear, but one thing is clear: there’s no historical evidence that they were designed to keep witches away. Historian Robin Briggs has studied many historical sources and found no mention of stairs that could disable witches. Interestingly, some people with these unique staircases also buried “witch bottles” or included dead cats in their homes for protection against witchcraft, but Briggs calls this idea “pure disinformation.” He notes that the closest belief was that putting a broom over the door would trap a witch inside.
While it’s fun to think about myths and legends, it’s also interesting to know the real history of witches’ stairs. Regardless, they offer a unique and decorative alternative to regular staircases, adding a fun and quirky touch to home design.
Victoria Beckham’s Last Appearance in Crutches Sparks Concern and People Are Speculating
Victoria Beckham’s recent appearance using crutches has ignited a wave of concern among fans and sparked widespread speculation about her well-being. The fashion icon was spotted navigating through a public event with the aid of crutches, raising questions about the nature of her injury or condition.Victoria Beckham appeared at the end of her runway.
Victoria Beckham ended her fashion show in Paris by walking down the runway with crutches. She was showing off her new clothes for the Autumn-Winter 2024 season. While walking the runway, Victoria stopped in front of David and gave him a kiss, which Vogue shared on Instagram. Even though she needed crutches, Victoria looked confident and graceful as she walked, proving that nothing can stop her from being stylish and strong.
People in the comments started speculating.
Users flooded the comments section with questions like «What happened to Victoria?» and one commenter offered an explanation: «FYI: she suffered an accident while she was exercising at the gym.» Another commenter raised the possibility of osteoarthritis, suggesting that Victoria might have fragile bones. The flurry of conjecture highlights the curiosity and concern surrounding Victoria’s unexpected use of crutches, fueling discussions about her health and well-being among fans and followers.
David Beckham cleared the rumors on his social media.
David Beckham went on his Instagram story to share a picture of what seemed to be his wife Victoria’s hurt foot, covered in a special boot. David wrote, «Apparently my wife’s little accident in the gym was a clean break.»
Victoria, the singer from the Spice Girls, joked, «Happy Valentine’s Day to me…» as she posted a photo of her foot with ice on it. She also said in her own Instagram story, «Fell over in the gym!» with a facepalm emoji. This funny back-and-forth on social media showed how David and Victoria have fun together and can make light of tough situations.
Paris Hilton has once again captured the spotlight, but this time, it’s not for her iconic persona or trendsetting style. Instead, social media is abuzz with reactions to her runway walk, igniting a fierce debate among fashion enthusiasts worldwide. While some are quick to mock her unconventional strut, others are applauding her confidence and unique flair.
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