Plate XCI. Curved External Steps and Staircases

Plate XCI. — Figs. I to III show the treatment for steps of curvilinear and semi-circular plan, ranging from the shaped ‘curtail’ steps peculiar to all phases of eighteenth century architecture, and the semi-circular flight leading directly to an entrance without columns, to the semi-circular steps and portico on a grand scale, designed by Sir Christopher Wren. In No. IV, quadrant flights form a double approach to a central landing, the whole being kept free from the building. No. V is a double semi-circular motive combined with a central portico landing: a very effective arrangement where space is available. No. VI shows a segmental disposition of steps and colonnade together with a segmental feature forming part of the main building. No. VII is an example of double semi-circular flights of steps introduced at the ends of a tetrastyle portico, with which it combines gracefully.