Join us this Friday@1 as Juan Manuel Heredia presents on the history and architectural significance of the open stair. Before the modern period, stairs were typically enclosed, hidden, and treated as purely functional parts of buildings. Beginning in the late 15th century, Spanish architects began opening these staircases by removing enclosing walls and roofs, transforming them into more visible and spatially expressive architectural elements.
This lecture traces the origins and spread of the open stair, highlighting its visual, spatial, and historical importance as one of the major architectural innovations of the early modern period.
About the Speaker
Juan Manuel Heredia Professor and Director of School of Architecture, Portland State University
What is Friday@1?
On most Fridays at 1 p.m. during the academic term, PSU School of Architecture students and faculty gather to hear from professional designers and architects, academics, visiting artists, innovators, and students in the program. Friday@1 is a perfect way to wrap up each week of intense creativity in the studio and get inspired for the productive weekend ahead.
Free and open to the public. All are welcome.