Stationsgebouw, Hilversum [NL]

EeStairs + BFAS

This design of this staircase at Hilversum train station in the Netherlands combines extremely simple lines with an unexpected and highly original architectural flourish.

The elliptical stairs twist upwards from the reception area of the Transdev bus company in the station building, and the curving, white powder-coated steel balustrade continues into a balcony balustrade whose proportions combine with the front of the reception desk to complete the visual perspective very effectively.

For a moment, the stairs seem stripped down in terms of the overall form and detailing. But notice the way the handrail turns to meet the half-landing and the bottom two steps. This is an elegant, highly crafted moment: at first, the oak rail runs straight, then curves inwards slightly, and finally radiuses downward to ‘plug into’ the stanchion next to the bottom step.