What Are Witches’ Stairs? A Simple Explanation of This Strange Home Design

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


Photo Credit: itsthatrealestatechick | TikTok

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


Photo Credit: itsthatrealestatechick | TikTok

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


Photo Credit: itsthatrealestatechick | TikTok

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


Photo Credit: conspiracy___time | TikTok

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.

Chris Hemsworth’s Wife Slammed for Wearing ‘Pajamas’ to Star-Studded Event!

When Chris Hemsworth, the Australian heartthrob known for playing Thor, received his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, his wife Elsa Pataky was in the spotlight for the wrong reasons.

As Chris celebrated his big day on the red carpet, Pataky faced criticism from fashion fans online for her outfit.

Find out why people were so upset about Pataky’s fashion choice!

On May 23, Chris Hemsworth received his star at 6819 Hollywood Boulevard, joining 2,780 other stars on the Walk of Fame. He was honored for his impressive performances that have captured audiences worldwide.

Chris Hemsworth, 40, shared his thanks on Instagram after receiving his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He posted several photos from the event and wrote, “This was wild and surreal! Huge thanks to the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and the Walk of Fame selection committee for this honor. Also, a big shoutout to everyone who has helped and supported me on this amazing journey!”

His role as Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe has won him many fans around the world.

Chris Hemsworth’s Walk of Fame event was filled with family and friends. Among the photos he shared, you can see him with Robert Downey Jr., his proud parents, his wife Elsa Pataky, and their 12-year-old daughter India Rose, who was a bit shy in front of the camera.

Their twin boys, Sasha and Tristan, also joined in the celebration. One of them held Chris’s framed certificate, while the other sat by the new star with his dad’s name on it.

After the event, Elsa Pataky posted some family photos on Instagram and wrote, “We are so proud of you, my love… Congratulations on the Hollywood Walk of Fame Star.”

Fans loved the family photos and many admired the children for their great looks. However, some people focused on Elsa Pataky’s outfit.

Chris Hemsworth looked sharp in his navy suit and unbuttoned white shirt. But Elsa’s off-white gown with black lace received criticism. Some fans thought her style choices didn’t do justice to her beautiful figure and called her outfit tacky.

Some fans criticized Elsa Pataky’s outfit, comparing it to pajamas and commenting on her unbraided top. They felt it looked casual and not classy for the event. Others joked that she looked like she was rushed out of bed.

However, not everyone agreed. Some fans thought she looked stunning and didn’t see her outfit as lingerie or inappropriate.

Credit: Kevin Winter / Getty.

Some fans praised Elsa Pataky’s look, calling her absolutely gorgeous and youthful. Others admired the couple’s relationship, saying it’s an ideal example of a perfect family.

The Hollywood Walk of Fame honors celebrities for their achievements, and Australian and New Zealand actors like Nicole Kidman, Russell Crowe, and Cate Blanchett have received this honor too.

What do you think of Elsa Pataky’s outfit? Share your thoughts and spread the story to see what others think!

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