You could be forgiven for describing this stair as “another steel spiral stair”, but the double helix stair at UTS Central is a lot, lot more!
Overview
Firstly, we need to start with the technical description of DNA. DNA is a molecule composed of two polynucleotide chains that coil around each other to form a double helix. These carry genetic instructions for the development, functioning, growth and reproduction of all known organisms and many viruses.
Now, what’s the link with a staircase? As it turns out, in this case, there’s a lot. When developing the concepts for this new campus building at UTS, the design team at FJMT were inspired by the double helix structure of DNA. Incorporating this concept this in the main stairway, the design is a symbol of how breakthroughs in science and technology have transformed our world. The Double Helix Staircase at UTS Central achieves the perfect balance between pragmatic and aesthetic purpose. In effect, it serves a similar function as it becomes a structure that aids the development, functioning and growth of a new generation of students at UTS.
Connecting the main administrative and public spaces from Level 4 to 7, The Double Helix comprises two separate sets of spiral stairs. On one hand it has a sculptural beauty, but practically it moves twice as many people between levels whilst maintaining the same footprint and area of a single spiral stair. This design is one of the most unique stairs in the city, and indeed possibly in the country. This unique steel spiral stair is a perfect reminder of how design can transform the function of a space and serves as an inspirational testimony to Active Metal’s ability, covering every aspect from detailed design development and engineering, right through to the finished product in all its glory.
Architect: FJMT
Client: UTS
Builder: Richard Crookes Constructions
Location: UTS Central Building, Broadway Sydney
Work Completed by Active Metal
Design development, site survey, shop drawings, base stair structure, internal & external stair balustrades, void and stair glazed balustrades, vinyl flooring to tread & riser, landing structures, aluminium feature ceiling to level 7 & 8, ribbons from level 7 to level 9, powder coated aluminium soffit, stainless steel handrails
