The book 'Showpiece and utility' documents the development of the open staircase typology in Naples at the moment that it shifted from the traditional, monumental Baroque palace staircase towards the later palazzo or condominium staircase that was serving four, five or more levels of apartments. These staircases are considered ''the star(s) of the palace composition in Naples''.

The book is the outcome of a master seminar in Architectural History at Ghent University. It continues a first publication from 2017.

The book 'Showpiece and utility' documents the development of the open staircase typology in Naples at the moment that it shifted from the traditional, monumental Baroque palace staircase towards the later palazzo or condominium staircase that was serving four, five or more levels of apartments. These staircases are considered ''the star(s) of the palace composition in Naples''.

The book is the outcome of a master seminar in Architectural History at Ghent University. It continues a first publication from 2017.