Wow, that's a tight space, and it look really unsafe. In the second photo it shows a second placement with looks good. If the couch could be moved the attached pic shows a staircase that wood be a better choice for the space, and be safer. To me a open hole in the floor is inviting a accident . The materials can be changed to a more rustic look, and the small hand rail adds a much needed safety measure to the area. Best of luck with your project , I hope this may help. http://houzz.com/photos/1214905

Hi jfitz128

For steep angles like yours the safest type of stair has an "alternating tread" design. I built one of these many years ago for a very similar situation as yours, and whats great is that you don't really need to hold on to the rail as you climb the stairs. Here's an example of one, if you do a web search you'll find many more.

Steve

Thank you Lynn, Steve, good suggestions.
I do have some options besides the tight space where it is now.
Good ideas, thanks
Jim

Steve, just a question about this type of stair. How does it meet code?

Hi Deborah, it did for the project we did in Montclair, N. California, that was about 12-13 years ago. I seem to recall the bldg dept had a lot of questions and needed sketches etc,, but they passed it. It was part of a whosle house remodel. (I would hope that since then theyve become more common). Id check with your building dept and see what they say.

Fwiw, these stairs are so comfortable to use, they look precarious but work great

Steve