So, this has come up twice recently - designing new homes where we have a 3 levels (basement, 1st, 2nd). Small homes, where every inch matters, so ideally we have code minimum 3' wide stairs. If we have a 3' stair from level 1 to level 2, the stair from level 1 to the basement gets shortchanged where it intersects the foundation wall, since the foundation wall is thicker than the stud wall above.
How do you resolve this? In my mind:
1) The stair from Level 1 to Level 2 ends up at ~3'-6" wide. Does this mean it also needs a 3'-6" landing if it doglegs halfway up?
2) Or, the stair can't be at the edge of the house, it has to be internal.
3) Or, the stair to the basement is narrower than 36", which isn't supported by code.
Help?
------------------------------
David Sisson AIA
Providence RI
------------------------------