As this was a my fist design where I had to consider the spatial experience, I decided to play with lift on a physical and spiritual level.
By utilizing a cave at the base of the staircase I intended to invoke a sense of compression and directionality.
As you move up the staircase, the cave changes to a lighter material and the ceiling begins to open gradually. By doing this I was not only looking to physically lift the person, but also provide them with a sense of uplifting spirit until they reached the top to experience a sense of freedom.