How is it that so many "designer" homes, often of the type shown
on TV or in the glossies, completely ignore these requirements?

The do look the business sometimes...
http://web.ukonline.co.uk/mark.orme/stairs.html
I'm sure any 10 year old would happily take up the challenge to jump to the
sofa. Risk management IMO is an essential part of child development.

--
Toby.

'One day son, all this will be finished'