Bookcase Staircase, London - Levitate Architecture and Design

This month’s focus is on completing the piles of books borrowed from the library in hopes of not having to continually find fine money when the final renewal option fails.

I had high hopes of completing the “Big Climb” in Downtown Seattle this year, but I’m sure capacity has been reached for enrollment, the odds of fundraising this late are slim and I personally am not – slim that is. So, while the Big Climb marks near the top of next year’s list of things to aim for, I figured it was high time I got the piles of library books to shrink, if only for a little while.

In the meantime one fascinating, enlightening book I found was “The Staircase: History and Theories” by John Templer. The book published in 1992 is a detailed look at the history of stairs, the various configurations, illustrations and photographs for explanation and a glossary in the back.

Upon first reading of the book, I couldn’t help but wish I had kept my passport current. Not that I’d be able to afford to travel outside the country anytime soon, but nice to dream. Practicality is aiming for a return to Rome after a short vacation to Vancouver – some year

Back to the book – Templer compares the architecture of interior to exterior stairs, the defensive purpose of Helical stairs and the beauty of Baroque and Garden stairs.

A relatively local look at stairs – “The Portland Stairs Book” by Laura O. Foster is a fun read. What’s better is the author admits to having climbed every stair she discusses! There are several photos to go with tidbits shared – which staircases are the longest, steepest, oldest, newest, safest, fishiest, etc. There are suggested walks to take in as many steps as possible (pun intended).

While I have thought of an escape to Portland being nothing more than a chance to play at Powell’s Bookstore, I may have to find a decent pair of walking shoes and take a stroll, or two…