Spiral Staircase: Minimum Measurements, Advantages, Costs and Required Space

Compact, functional and impactful: the spiral staircase is the ideal solution when space is limited but you don't want to sacrifice design. It is distinguished by its vertical development around a central load-bearing pole, and by its ability to integrate harmoniously into any context, transforming itself into a true furnishing element.

In this article we will explore what makes it so appreciated, what its main characteristics are, the advantages, the minimum measurements required, the differences between indoor and outdoor models and other fundamental technical aspects for an informed choice.

Table of contents

• What is a spiral staircase and why choose it

• All the advantages of a spiral staircase

• What are the minimum measurements for a spiral staircase?

• Internal or external spiral staircase: the differences

• The costs of a spiral staircase

• How to choose the right spiral staircase for you

What is a spiral staircase and why choose it

The spiral staircase is a vertically developing structure that rotates around a central load-bearing pole, allowing two floors to be connected while occupying the minimum floor space. It is the perfect answer for apartments, lofts or environments with limited square footage.

Here's why more and more people are choosing it:

• Maximum space saving: unlike traditional staircases, it develops mainly vertically, requiring less floor space: ideal for lofts, attics, basements, terraces and compact spaces
  
• Design and personality: available in different materials, each with different characteristics, it allows you to enhance any type of furniture and architectural style, from classic to contemporary
  
• Adaptability to spaces: the spiral staircase is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, with the possibility of choosing materials treated to resist atmospheric agents, ensuring longevity and safety even outdoors

All the advantages of a spiral staircase

Choosing a spiral staircase means combining aesthetics and functionality in little space. The main advantages include:

• Minimum footprint: occupies up to 70% less than a traditional staircase
  
• Design versatility: adapts to multiple architectural configurations
  
• Characterizing design: becomes the protagonist of the living space
  
• Efficient installation: often contained installation times and without invasive masonry work
  
• Dual destination: specific solutions for indoors and outdoors

What are the minimum measurements for a spiral staircase?

For comfortable and smooth use we recommend:

• Clear passage width: 80 cm. In very small spaces you can go down to 60 cm, accepting some comfort compromises.
• Diameter: 160 cm is the most comfortable and walkable solution. 140 cm and 120 cm are also available for more compact environments.

More compact models, such as Rintal's Phola, can start from a minimum diameter of 105 cm in the presence of exemptions provided by local building regulations. Before purchase, it is always advisable to check the relevant municipal regulations and evaluate any necessary authorizations.

Internal or external spiral staircase: the differences

Choosing between an indoor or outdoor spiral staircase means evaluating both the context of use and the materials used.

Indoor staircases:

• Designed to connect living spaces (living room, loft, basement)
  
• Designed to be aesthetically pleasing and comfortable for daily use
  
• Typical materials: painted steel, beech wood, stainless steel for modern finishes, steel-wood combinations

See all Rintal indoor spiral staircases.

Outdoor staircases:

• Suitable for terraces, gardens or independent entrances or connections to upper floors
• Made to last over time, resisting rain, humidity, UV rays and thermal shocks
• Ideal materials: galvanized steel, galvanized and painted steel

See all Rintal outdoor spiral staircases

The costs of a spiral staircase

The prices of a spiral staircase vary based on materials, diameter, steps, and any aesthetic or functional customizations.

Indicative overview (the prices shown are indicative and updated to the Rintalshop 2025 price list; they may vary based on configurations, finishes and diameters):

• Spiral staircase with steel structure and natural wood steps - HOOP: from 1345€
• Spiral staircase with beech steps - PHOLA: from 1831€
• Painted steel spiral staircase - GAMIA METAL: from 1180€
• Galvanized outdoor spiral staircase - EXTERIOR ZINK BIANCA: from 2678€

How to choose the right spiral staircase for you

The choice of a spiral staircase is never random: it must integrate harmoniously with the environment in which it is placed, respect its proportions and enhance its style, taking into account structural limitations and safety regulations.

Elements to evaluate:

• Height between the two floors to be connected
  
• Available space (maximum installable diameter)
  
• Expected frequency of use
  
• Type of environment (primary or secondary)
  
• Building constraints and municipal regulations
  
• Architectural style of the dwelling
  
• Available budget

For this reason, Rintal offers versatile solutions, capable of responding to functional, aesthetic and technical needs. Each project is designed to offer not only a connection between two levels, but a true architectural element that gives character and comfort to the space.

Browse our catalog of spiral staircases and discover the solution best suited to your needs, with the assurance of a certified and long-lasting product.