Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Vizcaya: circular staircase

Besides the main staircase at Vizcaya, right off the courtyard is another more sheltered stair, which also ascends to the southeast tower.
The little stairhall is decorated with more ancient porcelains and a little gilt table. Thick limestone treads are cantilevered off rounded walls forming a beautiful stair with bronze railing. Covering the first floor thru the third in an efficient manner, this was probably a more commonly used stair.Lit by sconces, the plaster walls are painted 2 charming shades of green (which speak so heavily of the era) as well as white plaster details.Looking straight down, the marble floor on the ground level gives you a focal point with its' design.The hall is brightly lit by sconces, a leaded glass window as well as a skylight.No detail overlooked, the design of the skylight matches the flooring down below. Also notice the mirrored walls of the barrel which help reflect more light into the hall.
Which stair would you choose to take? I'm definitely taking the circular staircase!

10 comments:

LESLIE THOMPSON SCOTT said...

I love seeing these masterpieces of architecture and design through your eyes. I hope it's not too much pressure to say that I'm looking forward to seeing your future travels and commentary. This must be a tremendous amount of work, I want you to know your efforts are appreciated!

Renée Finberg said...

oooh....
i love!!

xx

Todd said...

I have a love circular staircases - I always have. I love the rustic look of this, great photos!

The Devoted Classicist said...

Every detail was so carefully considered, the commitment to follow the design intent so strong, it is all very inspirational.

Todd said...

I have a love of circular staircases, I always have. I like how rustic this one is, the pictures are great!

Mark D. Ruffner said...

If form follows function, the smaller staircase certainly wins - and it's beautifully designed. It reminds me of Thomas Jefferson's preference for small staircases, even smaller than this.

Robert Webber said...

Loved the landscape of Viz., the barge, the pool with inside access, but philostine that I am the inside, fussily ornate, leaves me cold. But I LOVE the view up and down the spiral staircase. Genius.
Thanks for this series!
Best
R

quintessence said...

Stunning!! The details are just all so incredible. I simple adore the graceful bronze railing!!

No Sacrifice Bags said...

That is a wonderful photo, you took of the circular staircase. I love how some architects design a functional staircase, with an interesting perspective.

Yuri-Alex Niso said...

Oh wow that's stunning!