"Architectural" Stair & Head clearance Protruding Object Guards

[Question That]

Have a decorative central "architectural" stair not unlike a "monumental" type stair that is to have open risers and a center carriage. Really not looking forward to putting guards around the bottom of the stair as "required" by ADA 307.4 protruding objects. Would the IBC/ ADA allow for any exceptions to this requirement. Not thrilled about anyone banging their head on the stair either just wondering what My options are here.

 

[TheCommish]

build a planter under the staris

 

[bill1952]

I use to see a raised floor - maybe 6" - as a way to demarcate this "no go" area - cane detectable - but something tells me this is no longer allowed. Or is it ok for accessibility but not for fire?

 

[tbz]

In my day this was always the perfect spot for the indoor KOI Pond, but planting beds at floor level have become the norm or reversed benched seating with the backs of the benches blocking off access to underneath.

You are not going to be able to just leave it open if the area has a walking surface that is accessible. Thus, the common guard or as some call it the cane rail.

Simply pick your poison....