I think Greg is just talking about having them all the same orientation (i.e. both down = off, both up = off).
Anyway, what do three way switches have to do with having both hands full? What's the difference between a three way and a single pole switch under these circumstances? Yeah, you might have to try switching twice (if you expect it being down while it is actually up or vice versa), but I think that's acceptable. Spring operated switches or push buttons operating contactors just make the whole thing unnecessarily complex, adding potential error sources.
The whole stairway contactor thing only exists for power saving reasons - landlords don't trust their tenants to switch off the light after walking up or down the stairs.
