Emerging from the era of postwar reconstruction, a surge in residential developments gave rise to Le Corbusier's Unité d'Habitation. Five separate iterations of this architectural marvel built across France and Germany featured private modular family housing units nestled within expansive and vibrant living communities. At the core of the designer's philosophical approach lay a dynamic balance between individuality and collectivity, fostering a harmonious synergy that simultaneously enhanced both aspects. The high population density of these towering apartment complexes allowed for a 'critical mass' that enabled the community to thrive both efficiently and economically.

Drawing inspiration from the spatial limitations and organised living quarters of ocean liners, Le Corbusier embraced a pragmatic approach to develop a high-density living solution that celebrated individual freedom amongst the shared amenities of communal living, ultimately enriching the lives of its residents. The eventual design consisted of multi-level encapsulated units, each equipped with private staircases such as the present lot. This innovative layout maximised efficiency by utilising lifts that only stopped every third floor, creating a feeling of a standalone family home through the use of multi-story spaces. This architectural approach emphasised personal freedom while concurrently offering the advantages of communal resources and inviting social interaction. The present staircase offers a remarkable opportunity to acquire a historic foundational component from one of Le Corbusier's most iconic domestic projects.