Ajk1:
You shouldn’t need an architectural forum to discuss architectural issues. Make a list of your concerns and present them to the bldg. committee and have the architect explain why what he wants to do is such a good idea, meets the codes or is superior to your suggestion. You are his client, after all. Without seeing the details, I would tend to agree with you, that several steps in the middle of nowhere could be a hazard, maybe unexpected, not easily seen, etc. While the steps at the start or end of the walkway might be more likely expected, or seen. I would phrase your question to the committee and the arch. essentially as you have above. What are the other questions/issues. You have a copy of the bldg. code and can read it as well as an arch. can, on any particular issue. You can probably interpret it as common-scenically also.
As for the expense of new windows, make him prove that need and its payback too. You should be able to test the windows for rot, and to see that they are weather tight. There is considerable material floating around on this subject at the moment. Some of it is not unbiased, as it is written by window manufacturers, resellers and installers; all hoping to gain by installing new windows, whether you really need them or not. You said they were already double pane windows. Are these sealed thermo-panes, or are you talking about single pane inner sash with storm windows? Some insulation around window frames, some air sealing and caulking will Go to a college library and get a couple books on the general theories and practice of architectural design and practice. Things like the general theory and concepts of safe stair design and building should be covered in these texts. Get some consulting engineer familiar with bldg. energy matters, who has no ax to grind one way or another to report on the condition of the current window system.