From functional to inviting: how design transforms the use of a staircase

Sometimes an image says it all. The original staircase in this office building in Bilthoven was purely functional: a necessary connection between two floors, without really being part of the space. In the “before” situation, the staircase looked closed off and uninviting. As a result, people were more likely to take the elevator or simply overlook the stairs altogether.

But what happens when you completely rethink such an element?

After the renovation, that same staircase has evolved into a true eye-catcher. Where it once barely stood out, it now immediately draws attention the moment you enter. The sculptural shape, warm materials, and flowing lines ensure that the staircase is not only visible, but also inviting. Your gaze is naturally guided upward — and with it, your movement.

The effect is remarkable: people are more likely to take the stairs. Not because they have to, but because it feels natural. The aesthetics influence behavior.

The power of this transformation lies in the details. By rotating the helix half a turn, the staircase now connects perfectly with the space. The upper section flows seamlessly into the next floor, while the balustrades create a sense of calm and symmetry throughout the design. What may seem like a small adjustment makes a significant difference in practice — both visually and functionally

Where the staircase once felt disconnected from the interior, it has now become an integral part of the design. The sightlines have been improved, the spatial experience has been enhanced, and the entrance has gained a clear focal point.

This project shows that design does more than simply look beautiful. It can shape behavior, strengthen spaces, and turn something ordinary into something extraordinary.

A staircase therefore does not have to be just a connection between floors. With the right vision, it becomes an element that quite literally and figuratively moves people.