What Are Witches’ Stairs? The Bizarre Home Design Choice Explained

A unique, if not peculiar, design feature known as witches’ stairs, made its way around TikTok in March a couple years back. Although the stairs have an unusual history, it’s not for the reason its nickname would imply. They’re a ballfing design and supposedly, weren’t built on superstition after all. Moreover, when properly designed and installed, they can be functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Witches’ Stairs aren’t what they Appear.

Although it’s far less exciting than the superstition behind them, witches’ stairs are surprisingly helpful, particularly in homes with limited space. They might be found in attics, lofts, and tiny houses. Essentially, witches’ stairs were designed to save space while still providing the functionality of getting from one floor to another. Architects often refer to them as ‘alternate tread stairs.’