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.
Evidence of Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck Splitting Up Comes to Light
In 2022, Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck exchanged vows in a hurried Las Vegas ceremony. Unsettling rumors are circulating now that the pair may be getting a divorce. In order to comprehend what is going on, let’s get into the specifics.
Some reports claim that Ben Affleck has been living apart from his wife, Jennifer Lopez, at a different house. Reporters claimed to have seen him leave this house by himself several times.
In particular, the actor was spotted coming and going from a house in Brentwood, Los Angeles, that he seemed to be living alone. Affleck has reportedly been staying the night here, according to sources.
InTouch revealed earlier this week that Lopez and Affleck might be splitting up. According to the publication, Affleck had left their Beverly Hills marital residence. Although Affleck’s formal move out date is still unknown, it appears that he has been residing at his Brentwood house for a minimum of one week.
It’s interesting to note that over this time, Lopez and Affleck have both remained ring wearers. Despite their previous solo sightings at various events, Ben was conspicuously absent from Lopez’s side at the Met Gala last week.
His absence was attributed to “The Accountant 2” filming schedule conflicts with the event. However, the night before the Met Gala, Affleck was spotted in Los Angeles at Tom Brady’s roast. Additionally, Lopez has been spotted by paparazzi exploring Los Angeles without her spouse.
Lopez and her longtime producing partner were recently spotted house searching. At first, people thought she was looking for a new place to live with Affleck. There are now rumors circulating that she may be searching for a place to live alone.
The pair was last seen together in a photo in New York City back in March. They haven’t made any joint public appearances since then.
In terms of Affleck, he has been residing in Brentwood, the same community as his ex-wife Jennifer Garner and their three kids. According to reports, Affleck has been going to his kids’ events, which could account for his decision to stay in Brentwood and continue to be his children’s father.
Regarding these reports, neither Jennifer Lopez nor Ben Affleck have released an official remark as of yet.
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