Abstract: A staircase is provided that includes a column and steps. Each step: is coupled to the column and extends outside of, and away from, the column; includes a tread surface; and can move longitudinally along the column. The staircase can transition to a plurality of states by an actuation system, including closed and open states. The closed state includes the steps positioned at the upper end with the tread surfaces of the plurality of steps oriented around the upper end and coplanar to a flooring surface of the upper floor. The opened state includes the steps positioned at varying distances longitudinally along the column from the upper end towards the lower end so as to form spiraling steps around the column between the upper and lower floors. The steps can move longitudinally along the column for positioning in the closed and opened states.