The Safety and Efficiency of Single-Stair Buildings

A recent report by The Pew Charitable Trusts highlights the safety and potential benefits of single-stair apartment buildings. Analyzing fire death rates in modern single-stair buildings, the report demonstrates that these buildings are at least as safe as other types of housing. In New York City, the overall rate of fire deaths in its 4,440 modern single-stair buildings since 2012 was the same as in other residential buildings. The lack of a second stairway did not play a role in any of the four fire-related deaths in New York City and Seattle's modern single-stairway buildings from 2012 to 2024.   

Unlocking Potential and Reducing Costs

Single-stair buildings offer several advantages:

• Increased Housing Supply: They can fit on smaller infill lots, potentially increasing the supply of apartments in urban and suburban neighborhoods.
• Reduced Construction Costs: Single-stairway four-to-six-story buildings with relatively small floor plates cost 6% to 13% less to construct than similar dual-stairway buildings.   
• Flexible Designs: Because they can be more flexible, single-stairway designs permit better and more efficient use of building sites, particularly smaller and irregularly shaped lots.   

The Path Forward

The evidence is clear: outdated zoning and building codes are stifling innovation and exacerbating the housing crisis. By embracing reforms like the legalization of single-stair buildings, we're not just cutting construction costs; we're fundamentally reshaping our cities for the better. This isn't about sacrificing safety; it's about leveraging proven designs and data-driven analysis to build more resilient, affordable, and vibrant communities. It's about recognizing that flexibility and innovation in building design are not luxuries, but necessities in a rapidly changing world. By removing these regulatory barriers, we can empower developers to create diverse housing options that meet the evolving needs of our populations, revitalize neglected urban spaces, and ultimately, build a more equitable and sustainable future for all. The time for incremental change is over. We need bold, decisive action to unlock the potential of our cities and ensure that everyone has access to safe, affordable, and high-quality housing. Let's open the doors to a new era of urban development, one single stair at a time.