The Rise of "Death Stairs": A Viral Collection of Hazardous Staircases

Kevin Reid's unconventional childhood staircase in Dublin has become a highlight in the popular "Death Stairs" Facebook group, which captures various dangerous stair designs. The phenomenon reflects a growing interest in quirky architecture and relatable hazards.

The staircase at Kevin Reid’s childhood home in Dublin, Ireland, has unexpectedly become a social media sensation. Constructed with pipe fittings and resembling a ladder more than a traditional staircase, this eccentric feature was merely a quirky element of Reid's upbringing until it garnered attention on the Facebook group "Death Stairs." Boasting nearly 800,000 members, the group features a collection of staircases labeled as perilous or risky.

Reid's staircase, built by his father as part of a two-story addition, never struck him as dangerous—he simply loved its unique character. “I wouldn’t do it in sock soles, but you can fairly rush down them and they make a nice ringing sound when you go down them,” he recounted. The staircase has proven to be solid, despite its unconventional appearance.

The Facebook page celebrates various types of dangerous stairways, showcasing highlights such as narrow, triangle-shaped steps, glass spiral structures with mirrored walls, and steep wooden stairs carved into cliffs. This diversity captivates the group's members, who share personal experiences with these often treacherous architectural designs, creating a growing community around the commonality of thrill-seeking and humor in danger.

The global interest in the "Death Stairs" phenomenon signals a cultural moment where architecture, safety, and nostalgia converge, allowing individuals to reflect on their past and share stories that resonate on a personal level. Reid's childhood stairs exemplify how something considered an ordinary part of life can evolve into a symbol of quirky charm, inviting danger while sparking both laughter and caution.