Stairs for mezzanines: which one to choose and how much space you need

A mezzanine solves the vertical space problem, but it requires a staircase that integrates with the environment without taking up more space than necessary. The most frequent question from those designing or renovating a mezzanine concerns the dimensions: how much space does a mezzanine staircase take up? Is there also a suitable solution for those with only a few centimetres available?

The available options are more numerous than one might think and meet very different needs:

• Retractable ladders, which fold into the ceiling when not in use
• Space-saving stairs, compact thanks to alternating treads
• Spiral staircases, with a fixed circular footprint independent of height
• Open stairs, for those who have a dedicated space

In this guide you'll find the main characteristics of each type, the dimensional requirements needed and the Rintal reference models for each.

Table of contents

1. How much space is needed for a mezzanine staircase?
2. The retractable ladder for mezzanines: when the ceiling is the solution
3. The space-saving staircase for mezzanines: permanent and compact
4. The spiral staircase for mezzanines: circular footprint
5. The open staircase for mezzanines: when space allows
6. How to choose the right staircase for your mezzanine

How much space is needed for a mezzanine staircase?

Before choosing the type of staircase, it's necessary to gather two fundamental measurements: the height between floors and the dimensions of the available stair opening.

The height between floors is the vertical distance from the finished floor of the lower level to the finished floor of the upper level, including the slab. In Italian residential mezzanines, this measurement generally falls between 230 and 300 centimetres, a range that every type of Rintal staircase is able to cover with standard configurations.

The dimensions of the stair opening are the horizontal space available on the lower floor. This is the parameter that guides the choice:

• less than 70 centimetres of free side: retractable ladders are considered
• from 60 centimetres up: space-saving stairs fit in
• at least 105 centimetres of available diameter: the spiral staircase comes into play
• wider openings: open stairs can be considered

The opening in the floor is the third variable. If the opening already exists, its dimensions determine the compatible model. If it still needs to be made, it can be sized according to the chosen staircase. The standard calculation for Rintal stairs requires an opening equal to the width of the staircase plus 5 centimetres; for spiral staircases, equal to the diameter of the staircase plus 5 centimetres.

The retractable ladder for mezzanines: when the ceiling is the solution

Retractable ladders take up zero floor space when not in use: they open only when access to the mezzanine is needed and fold back into the ceiling once the passage is complete. It's the absolute smallest-footprint solution and the most suitable for mezzanines used as storage or as a closet, with non-daily access.

Rintal offers three retractable ladder models, with different opening mechanisms.

Escalmatic: motorised retractable ladder

Escalmatic is the innovative motorised retractable ladder designed to connect secondary spaces, attics, lofts or roof rooms in a comfortable, safe and energy-efficient way.

Technical features:

• 11 steps in 15/10 stamped steel sheet, painted white
• 220V electric motor for automatic opening and closing
• Infrared remote control included (wall control panel optional)
• Double telescopic handrail for maximum safety
• Mobile structure with shock-absorbing and return springs
• Sturdy exit handles to facilitate grip
• Trapdoor in 15 mm poplar plywood, class E1
• Double insulation system with U-value = 1.1 W/m²K (with Termocover)

Learn more on the page dedicated to Escalmatic

4P: the retractable ladder with rigid structure

4P is the foldaway ladder designed to easily and safely connect secondary spaces, such as attics or lofts, to the main rooms of the house. Thanks to the rigid steel ramps that fold into 4 parts, this retractable ladder ensures greater sturdiness and reduced flexibility compared to other vertical retractable ladders, representing the maximum synthesis of quality, safety and practicality at an extremely competitive price.

Technical features:

• 10 steps in 15/10 stamped sheet metal
• Mobile structure in 50 x 20 mm tubular steel, painted white RAL 9010
• Rigid steel ramps that fold into 4 parts for greater sturdiness
• Shock-absorbing and return springs for easier opening and closing
• Double fixed handrail on both sides (versions with 70 cm box width)
• Handles to facilitate exit on the upper floor
• Box in 10/10 galvanised steel sheet

Find out more on the page dedicated to the 4P ladder

ADJ: the retractable ladder with accordion system

Adj is the practical and safe retractable ladder, ideal for connecting secondary areas of the house, such as attics, lofts and mezzanines, to the main rooms. Thanks to the accordion system, it can be opened and closed easily with a single gesture, making it practical to use without the need for particular physical strength.

Technical features:

• Steps and mobile structure in 15/10 stamped sheet metal, painted white
• Accordion system for facilitated opening and closing
• Shock-absorbing and return springs for smooth movements
• Handrail on the right side of the ladder (left telescopic handrail available as optional)
• Landing handles to facilitate exit on the upper floor
• Available in different sizes to adapt to various residential needs
• Also available in galvanised version for an essential look

Learn more on the page dedicated to the Adj ladder

The space-saving staircase for mezzanines: permanent and compact

When the mezzanine is habitable or used several times a day, a retractable ladder may not be a practical choice. In these cases, a fixed staircase that takes up as little space as possible is preferred.

Space-saving stairs are designed with alternating, shaped treads: each tread alternately supports the front of the right and left foot, allowing a stable and natural climb despite the steeper incline compared to a traditional staircase. The result is a staircase that takes up less space in length without sacrificing the safety of the footing.

Mini: the model for daily use

Mini is the space-saving staircase that combines aesthetics and practicality, offering a customisable solution that enhances any domestic environment with a natural and refined touch.

Main features:

• Treads in solid beech wood, shaped and alternating
• Width 61 centimetres
• Painted steel structure (White 22, Silver Grey 01)
• Available in straight, one-turn or two-turn version
• Rise adjustment system

Learn more on the page dedicated to Mini

Small

Small is the space-saving staircase with pine wood treads, designed with the same principle of alternating, shaped treads that characterises the Rintal space-saving line. Designed for those looking for a practical, safe and compact solution, it adapts to mezzanines, lofts and environments where space is limited.

Built with quality materials, Small guarantees solidity and durability over time, combining safety, essential design and maximum efficiency in exploiting the vertical space of the home.

Main features:

• Treads in natural pine wood, shaped and alternating
• Staircase width 60 centimetres
• Painted steel structure (White 22, Silver Grey 01)
• Covers heights from 80 to 356 cm
• Available in straight, one-turn or two-turn version
• Rise adjustment system for precise fit
• Self-installation possible with adequate manual skills

Find out more on the page dedicated to Small

The spiral staircase for mezzanines: circular footprint

The spiral staircase is the solution with the smallest floor footprint among permanent staircases: the entire structure develops vertically around a central pole, occupying a fixed circular space independent of the height between floors. It doesn't require support walls and can be positioned freely in the room, even in the centre.

Hoop: the space-saving spiral staircase in steel and wood

Hoop is the spiral staircase designed for interiors that combines a solid steel structure with treads made of pine wood. The design is studied to minimise the footprint and maximise the use of available space, offering an elegant and functional solution.

Ideal for modern homes or for those looking for a space-saving alternative without sacrificing the warmth of wood, Hoop guarantees safety, comfort and resistance, becoming a refined and practical furnishing element.

Main features:

• Available in diameters of 118 and 138 centimetres
• Pine wood treads that bring warmth to the environment
• Load-bearing structure and railing in painted steel (White 22 and Silver Grey 01)
• Railing with vertical steel balusters
• Rise adjustment system for precise fit to the height of the environment
• Covers heights from 103 to 648 cm

Discover Hoop on rintalshop.com

Phola: the modular spiral staircase

Phola is the modular spiral staircase that combines the natural warmth and elegance of wood with the solidity and durability of steel. Thanks to a wide range of combinations of diameters and finishes, this staircase easily adapts to any interior environment, offering customised solutions to optimise spaces without sacrificing style.

Ideal for those who want a design element that combines functionality and quality, Phola guarantees safety, comfort and refined aesthetics, transforming the climb between floors into a pleasant and harmonious experience.

Main features:

• Wide range of available diameters: from 105 to 180 centimetres
• Beech wood treads
• Painted steel structure with extended colour choice (White 22, Silver Grey 01, Anthracite Grey 03)
• Customisable modular railing with refined finishes
• Covers heights from 123 to 648 cm

Discover Phola on rintalshop.com

Gamia Metal: the all-steel spiral staircase

Gamia Metal is the spiral staircase made of steel, designed for those looking for a resistant, versatile solution with a contemporary design. The metal structure ensures solidity and durability, while the epoxy powder coating ensures a matte, scratch-resistant finish that maintains its original appearance even after years of intensive use.

Ideal for modern or industrial-design environments, Gamia Metal offers clean, decisive aesthetics with a wide colour choice.

Main features:

• Available in diameters of 120 and 140 centimetres
• Treads, structure and railing entirely in painted steel
• Wide range of finishes: White 22, Silver Grey 01, Black 14, Red 92, Blue 34, Green 35, Yellow 36
• Railing with vertical steel balusters
• Rise adjustment system for precise fit to the height of the environment

Discover Gamia Metal on rintalshop.com

The open staircase for mezzanines: when space allows

If the stair opening has a width of at least 70 centimetres and a sufficient length for horizontal development, an open staircase allows more comfortable access to the mezzanine compared to compact solutions. The treads are straight, the tread depth is greater and the slope is less steep.

Knock is Rintal's modular open staircase, designed by Giugiaro Architettura with a central load-bearing steel structure.

• Available widths: 65, 75, 85 and 95 cm
• Treads: beech, 40 mm thick with Finger Joint technology, available in eight colours
• Structure: epoxy powder-coated steel available in white, silver grey or anthracite grey
• Available in straight, one-turn or two-turn version
• 8 wood finishes available (Bleached, Natural, Walnut, Sand, Concrete, Dove, Wengé, Lacquered White)
• Rise adjustment system for precise fit
• Possibility of integrating LED lighting

Learn more on the page dedicated to Knock

How to choose the right staircase for your mezzanine

After seeing the different types, the next step is to understand which one best suits your space. There isn't a single solution: the choice depends on the use of the mezzanine, the available space and the height between floors. Starting from these measurements will help you orient yourself more easily.

If the mezzanine is used only occasionally, for example as storage, retractable ladders are the most practical solution because they don't take up space when closed. If instead it's used every day, it's better to choose a fixed staircase. Space-saving models are ideal when space is limited, while a spiral staircase is perfect in the absence of a free wall. If you have more space available, you can opt for an open solution.

The starting point is always the measurement of the height between floors and the dimensions of the available opening. If you need support in choosing, our consultants are available to find the solution that best responds to your needs.