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How to Replace a Spiral Staircase: Complete Guide to Solutions, Costs and Alternatives

The spiral staircase is appreciated for its space-saving and minimalist aesthetics. However, in some contexts it can be uncomfortable and unsafe. Replacing it can therefore mean improving the accessibility and...

The spiral staircase is a type of internal staircase characterized by a vertically developing structure that rotates around a central load-bearing pole, allowing considerable space saving. It is appreciated in environments with limited square footage and for those seeking an original and minimalist furnishing element. However, in some situations it may be less comfortable or practical, especially when there are small children, elderly people or people with mobility difficulties in the home who need greater safety and ease of movement.

Replacing it can therefore mean improving the accessibility and functionality of spaces, as well as updating the aesthetic appearance to adapt it to new needs.

Table of contents

When it is convenient to replace a spiral staircase

The reasons that can lead to replacing a spiral staircase are multiple:

  • When the staircase is too narrow or steep for comfortable and safe use
  • If there are small children or people with mobility difficulties in the home who need greater accessibility
  • If the staircase no longer complies with current safety regulations or national provisions relating to step width, parapets and handrails
  • To improve the aesthetic appearance and functionality of the environments
  • If structural maintenance or renovation interventions are planned for the property that allow a comprehensive revision of the staircase

Rintal solutions to replace a spiral staircase

Replacing a spiral staircase does not necessarily mean giving up space: it means choosing the solution best suited to your needs. Rintal offers several alternatives, each designed to respond to specific needs of comfort, space and style.
Among the most common solutions are straight open staircases, L-shaped, U-shaped or C-shaped, and space-saving staircases.

Straight open staircase

The straight open staircase is the ideal solution when you have sufficient space available in a straight line and are looking for maximum climbing comfort. Perfect for those who want to transform the staircase into a true design element that enhances the environment.
The open structure with visible steps gives extraordinary visual lightness to the environment. The absence of closed risers allows natural light to pass through the staircase, creating continuity between levels and amplifying the brightness of spaces. Steps with generous tread guarantee a comfortable and safe ascent, ideal for families with children or elderly people.
Among the advantages of this solution are maximum comfort of daily use, easy passage even with bulky objects, sensation of greater spaciousness and brightness, modern and elegant aesthetics that integrates perfectly in contemporary contexts.
The Rintal range includes solutions such as Knock, a modular staircase with design by Giugiaro Architettura that combines customization and prestige.

Learn more on the page dedicated to straight open staircases.

L-shaped open staircase

The L-shaped staircase is the perfect solution when the available space does not allow a straight flight but you have a corner formed by two perpendicular walls. It is ideal for effectively exploiting corner spaces that would otherwise remain unused, particularly suitable in living rooms, entrances or open spaces with corner configuration.
The L-shaped staircase features a 90-degree turn with an intermediate landing that connects the two perpendicular flights. This configuration breaks the ascent creating a natural pause that makes movement more comfortable. The design remains open and modern, maintaining the visual lightness typical of open staircases.
The intermediate landing present in some models reduces the physical effort of climbing, making the staircase more accessible for families with small children or elderly people. The corner configuration allows creating functional areas under the staircase: the space obtained is ideal for creating a custom closet, an integrated bookcase, a cozy study corner or a work area, maximizing the livability of the home without wasting precious centimeters.
Thanks to its aesthetic flexibility, it can be made with different materials and finishes to adapt to any furnishing style, from classic to contemporary. The open structure guarantees visual continuity between environments and allows natural light to circulate freely.

Discover more on the page dedicated to L-shaped open staircases.

U-shaped or C-shaped open staircase:

The U-shaped or C-shaped staircase is ideal when you need to keep the arrival and departure of the staircase vertically aligned, or when the available space is limited in width but can develop in height. Perfect for narrow and long stairwells, or when you want to drastically reduce the floor plan footprint compared to a straight solution.
The U-shaped staircase makes a complete 180-degree turn thanks to a series of fan-shaped steps that allow reversing the direction of the ascent. The two flights develop parallel to each other, creating a symmetrical and elegant composition. The open design allows light to flow between levels and maintains the feeling of spaciousness despite the compact configuration.
The U-shaped configuration allows "folding" the length of the staircase on itself, considerably reducing the floor plan footprint compared to a straight staircase.
This solution is particularly effective in narrow but tall spaces, where a straight staircase would require too much length.

Learn more on the page dedicated to U-shaped or C-shaped open staircases.

Space-saving staircases

Space-saving staircases represent the optimal solution when you want to replace the spiral staircase but have significant space constraints and cannot install a traditional open staircase. Perfect for connecting lofts, attics or secondary spaces while maintaining a modern appearance.
The steps with a particular shape, often alternating or staggered, reduce the overall footprint while ensuring a more ergonomic and comfortable ascent compared to the spiral staircase. The studied design maintains an adequate foot support surface despite the compact dimensions.
While occupying a reduced space, space-saving staircases offer a more natural passage compared to the spiral staircase. The frontal ascent is more intuitive compared to the circular movement of the spiral, increasing the ease of daily use.
Rintal space-saving solutions: Mini, the staircase with alternating steps, designed to connect any environment even in the most reduced spaces.

Discover more on the page dedicated to space-saving staircases

How to replace a spiral staircase with a normal staircase

Replacing a spiral staircase with a normal staircase is possible, but requires careful planning and evaluation of several factors:

  • Evaluate available space: it is necessary to accurately measure the area where the spiral staircase is located to understand if it is possible to accommodate a normal staircase. Unlike the spiral, which develops vertically and compactly, a traditional staircase requires a wider flight and greater footprint, both in length and width.
  • Design the new staircase taking into account safety regulations: the new staircase must be designed in compliance with current regulations, which regulate precise dimensions such as the rise (the height of each step), the tread (the depth of the step) and the mandatory presence of handrails and parapets. These elements not only guarantee safety but also improve the ergonomics of the staircase, making passage easier.
  • Consider the possibility of structural modifications in the environment (demolition of walls or enlargement of openings): often transforming a spiral staircase into a normal staircase may require more complex structural interventions. This may mean demolishing or moving walls, enlarging openings or modifying the floor to make room for the new flight. It is therefore important to evaluate the technical feasibility and costs of these works before proceeding.
  • Choice of materials: the choice of materials for the new staircase must balance functionality and design. Wood, steel and iron are among the most common options, each with different characteristics in terms of aesthetics, durability and maintenance. The right selection will help integrate the staircase into the home furnishings, enhancing the spaces.

How much does it cost to replace a spiral staircase?

The cost to replace a spiral staircase can vary significantly based on several factors: dimensions, chosen materials, complexity of works and need for structural modifications.
The factors that most influence the cost are:

  • Type of replacement staircase
  • Materials used
  • Demolition and reconstruction works of the structure
  • Interventions for compliance with safety regulations
  • Possible disposal of the old staircase
  • Labor costs and customized design

Conclusions: how to choose the right staircase for your home

Replacing a spiral staircase is an important step to improve comfort, safety and style of your home. Carefully evaluating the available solutions, the available space and the most suitable materials will help you choose the ideal staircase for your needs. Whether it is an open staircase, a space-saving solution or a transformation into a traditional staircase, careful planning is essential to obtain a functional and lasting result.