In the beginning is the question – why do staircases have to be rigid, especially in the exploded spaces and daring building forms of contemporary architecture? The answer is formulated by the Viennese designer Thomas Schiefer with his project Lufttritt – Air Stair. The term ensconces a flexible stairway system which is free-standing and based on the suspension-bridge principle; it is thus without bearing elements and can cover extensive distances. Like the suspension bridge, Air Stair is remarkable for its lightweight construction and a tangible oscillation when trodden upon – although here the calculations of FCP Fritsch, Chiari & Partner have assured that this remains within a pleasant and above all secure dimension.