Arup's Perforated Copper Staircase

According to Jan Wurm, Arup's Materials Practice Leader for Europe: "The detailed design of the complex structure is based on a limited set of panel types and interface geometries to allow for a consistent appearance and an efficient procurement. The installation is sequenced in such a way that the structural panels interlock with each other and a delicate substructure to minimize visible connections."

The lighting accentuates the unique characteristics of the stair. The interaction of the copper and the wood – sometimes both are perforated, sometimes the latter is solid – that created opportunities for lighting. Side-emitting fiber-optic lights are used when narrow gaps occur between the materials. As well, a band of light follows the treads and risers, articulating the corner where they meet the guardrails (photo below). Inserted into a hall of monochrome stone blocks broken up by strips of light, the stair is a strong design statement that celebrates movement through the villa.