Scary stairs

I've never been particularly fond of stairs, mostly because my own clumsy self has a habit of turning every set into a life-threatening obstacle course. But after seeing this collection of scary stairs, I suddenly feel better about my everyday trips and slips. At least my staircase doesn't actively seem like it's plotting my demise. If you've ever doubted your coordination on a regular staircase, just wait till you get a glimpse of these architectural nightmares.

Navigating life can already feel perilous enough, but the scary stairs in this post take danger to an entirely new, unnecessary level. From steep stairs that defy safety regulations to narrow steps seemingly built for squirrels rather than humans, each photo is a testament to poor design choices. Staircase fails include railings that mysteriously end halfway down, stairs built at gravity-defying angles, and others placed so precariously you're left wondering who exactly approved these monstrosities. Clearly, staircase design isn't for everyone—particularly whoever created these horrifying constructions. You'll find yourself simultaneously amused and horrified, thankful for your own boring, predictable, and safely designed steps.

After scrolling through these scary stairs, you're probably feeling a newfound appreciation for your home's mundane staircase. You've now witnessed staircases that seemed purposely designed to hurt rather than help, featuring steps that looked more like death traps than architectural features. You saw photos of ridiculously narrow stairs, railings leading nowhere, and spiraling horrors you'd never dare step foot on. It's safe to say your fear of heights probably increased a notch or two after this harrowing visual journey.

If you're a fan of architecture gone horribly wrong, you might also enjoy collections about design fails, questionable home renovations, construction memes, or bizarre real estate listings. Plenty more absurdity awaits to make you feel better about your own home choices.