The architects were commissioned to refurbish four floors of an old department store, restoring the interior to its original 'warehouse' character. A new basement sales area was created, and a metal and timber basement staircase inserted near the new ground floor display windows. The stair enclosure is formed by mild steel bars suspended from a perimeter MS angle. The central uprights, in compression, are a heavier MS section and support the handrail. Pitch pine treads are supported on MS bars welded between the suspension and compression members. When closed, a hinged gate at basement level provides security and completes the 'cagelike' enclosure. The design of shop fittings echoes the vocabulary of the new staircase.