DOORS, WINDOWS & BALUSTRADES
UPSTAIRS, DOWNSTAIRS Staircases are one of the most vital transition elements in architecture; they are designed to connect two spaces, whether it is interior to exterior or different internal levels. The positioning of a staircase in a multi-level building will always be vital, but now it is just as essential to create a design visual and consider the staircase as a main feature. Using metal mesh for the balustrades or panel railings on the staircase is not only a great option for safety but also pushes the design boundaries, writes Anthony Millington, Business Development Manager at Amron Architectural. AMRON ARCHITECTURAL
M
meshes in steel or brass used for balustrade infills and later lift surrounds. This gave way to perforated metals and latterly expanded meshes followed suit. Unlike the woven meshes, these two products could now be used in both the balustrade and tread, with expanded metal being particularly popular in more industrial environments due to its nonslip properties for external use. The popularity of metal meshes in stairs has seen it be used in almost every construction sector – from the hardest industrial environs such as oil rigs where the mesh needs to be durable, non-slip and anti-corrosive, to the most delicate of installations in luxury hotels where aesthetic is everything. So, it is not surprising that architects and designers are coming up with new ways to use metal meshes in stairs and balustrades.
etal mesh has a long tradition of outdoor use spanning hundreds of years. Over time, metal mesh has earned a reputation as a practical, durable yet surprisingly versatile product thanks in part to its uncanny ability to meet a wide range of specifications. The reason then is the same as it is now, metal mesh is such a versatile product, it has inherent strength, it can be shaped, it is strong and most of all it is attractive. With a variety of practical exterior applications, including vent panels, cages and baskets, it is little wonder that metal mesh was eventually introduced to the world of interiors. Metal mesh has been used in stairs since its inception hundreds of years ago either as balustrading or treads. Initially, it was woven metal FC&A – FEBRUARY – 2021
24
