In compact Northern Ireland terraces, the stair is the make-or-break decision. Three layouts solve most cases:
1) Over-stacked straight flight
Place the new flight above the existing one.
Pros: efficient footprint, simple fire strategy, tidy landings.
Watch-outs: needs headroom at the top; sometimes a modest dormer or rooflight above the landing helps usability and light.
2) L-shaped with winders
Turn the stair near mid-landing.
Pros: fits awkward plans; creates a neat landing “threshold” to the loft room.
Watch-outs: winders must be designed carefully for safe going and rise; coordinate balustrades and doors.
3) Split-landing / gallery
A short run to a small landing, then another run into the room.
Pros: great where a purlin or frame intrudes; lets you “aim” the arrival point for furniture.
Watch-outs: more carpentry; guard-ing lines multiply; ensure a protected route and interlinked alarms strategy.
Planning the opening:
– Align over a corridor to avoid stealing a bedroom.
– Check where steels/new joists will sit before cutting anything.
– Draw furniture into the loft plan—beds and desks dictate landing position.
Fire, light, and comfort:
– Keep the route logical and well-lit (rooflight over landing is gold).
– Coordinate doors and smoke detection early.
– Avoid cold spots by wrapping insulation and airtightness around the stair opening.
