In addition to negotiating changes in height, staircases in public spaces serve as meeting points, structure space, and guide the flow of pedestrians. At the same time, they can present a safety hazard. Outdoor staircases must therefore be early and clearly recognizable, even in rain, backlighting, or under conditions of impaired vision.
The relevant standards such as DIN 18040-1 and DIN 32984 require high-contrast visual strips on step edges as well as tactile warning fields at the top and bottom of stair landings. In addition, the Sustainable Building Rating System (BNB) places a strong focus on the long-term durability and ease of maintenance of these details. While these standards clearly define protective objectives, they leave a welcome amount of freedom for customized design choices during material implementation.
The imagery shows a standard-compliant combination of high-contrast visual strips on the step edges and tactile warning fields at the top of the stairs. Project: Fritz-Förster-Bau in Dresden. Design: Rehwaldt Landschaftsarchitekten.
Elegant Contrast Instead of Standard Solutions: A Wide Range of Designs
In practice, it quickly becomes clear that there is no single universal standard solution. To implement the required visual and tactile contrasts on the step leading edge in compliance with standards, belgrano® natural stone can be manufactured in virtually any conceivable variation.
For example, surfaces can be milled or shot-blasted, contrast elements made from other materials can be embedded, or entire components can be custom-made for specific projects. Which execution proves technically and economically convincing depends on the respective project. A heavily frequented transport hub places completely different demands on material, abrasion, and maintenance than a historic city square with strict heritage preservation requirements. Accordingly, a project-specific solution is generally recommended.
Accessible Natural Stone Staircases: Real-World Reference Projects
Our belgrano® natural stone proves its worth every day in high-traffic locations. At the Charité forecourt in Berlin (Design: Neumann Gusenburger), the decision was made against using any third-party materials. Here, milled grooves mark the steps made of belgrano® granite. The contrast is created purely through surface processing: the grooves refract light differently than the solid tread surface while remaining tactile.
For the headquarters of the chemical group Brenntag in Essen (left), designed by JSWD Architekten, a custom solution was selected: flush-mounted, contrasting metal strips were permanently bonded into the step edges of belgrano® basalt. This created a clear visual marking with a refined metallic line that emphasizes the building’s modern architecture.
The design team at Spreedreieck in Berlin (right) chose a different path. Here, circular contrast elements were bonded into the natural stone. Instead of a continuous line, this created a point-based marking that artistically breaks up the step edge.
Text Südkreuz (left) and Ostkreuz (right)
Free Consultation for Your Project: Your Project in the Best Hands
Every staircase installation brings its own individual requirements. That is why we place great value on meticulous planning and personal advice. Our experienced BESCO team supports you as a collaborative partner on equal footing.
Our team will be happy to discuss the technical requirements of your project. Get in touch by phone or email.
