Tristan Conor Holden’s series Kaidan offers viewers an extensive look into the diversity of staircase designs on the exterior of domestic and commercial buildings in Japan. The simple, yet acrobatic beauty of each staircase exemplifies the mastery and craft of Japanese architects. Holden’s photographic series, composed of up to 50 unique staircases, is unified by their common theme of minimalist aesthetics and ingenious functionality. And although they are admired for their minimalism, these structures are intricately composed of complex, essential details such as precise angles, texture, asymmetry, geometric features, and contrasts of light and shadow.

While many of us are used to the pragmatic look and function of Western-style staircases, Japanese architects transform these staircases into spaces of creative potential, yet still maintain pure material honesty. Continue below for a glimpse into this architectural magic!

- Alexa Fahlman