Tower-type Steel Fire Escape

Problem

Where heavy connections to the facade are not possible, or the stair should read as a separate volume, the escape stair is built as a tower on its own columns, linked to each floor by access platforms.

Solution

A four-column steel tower with a two-flight stair and a landing at every storey. The exterior is clad with vertical bars, which act as fall protection and make the tower read as a single volume. The tower stands on its own foundation; floor platforms connect to the building with joints that transfer horizontal load only.

Result

Tower parts are fabricated in the workshop and bolted on site; the cladding bars go on last, followed by paint touch-up.