Concrete and Stone Stair Case

Constructed a multi-material hillside staircase connecting a parking pad to an upper yard seating area, combining poured concrete steps with hand-selected stone. Designed and built custom forms, graded each step, and ensured proper expansion gaps for long-term stability. 

In the summer of 2014, I built a staircase at my parents’ property to connect a parking pad with an upper yard area featuring a bench and planted landscaping. The goal was to create a clean and durable transition using a mix of poured concrete and large natural stones. The project required careful planning and layout to ensure both safety and long-term durability, while also fitting into the aesthetic of the surrounding garden space.

I was responsible for sourcing all the materials for the build, including purchasing, loading, unloading, and organizing concrete, gravel, and formwork supplies. For the lower section of stairs, I built custom wood molds and poured concrete by hand. The upper steps were made from individually selected stones I gathered to fit the spacing and design. Each step was carefully leveled and graded for both function and appearance.

The most complex part of the build was the lowest step, which was larger than the others and included an offset platform designed to hold a large flower pot. Constructing and securing the mold on a sloped hillside, while accounting for expansion gaps between the step and the concrete edge of the parking pad, proved time-consuming and required problem-solving on the fly. Stability and drainage were critical considerations during setup.

Time management was also key: I mixed and poured six 80-pound bags of concrete by hand using a wheelbarrow. The design required that the first three steps be poured in succession within the same day to ensure proper alignment and bonding before the concrete fully set. Working efficiently while maintaining quality was critical to the outcome.

The staircase has now been in use for over a decade with no signs of cracking, shifting, or settling. This project highlights my experience in concrete formwork, material handling, layout planning, and the physical effort required for outdoor hardscaping. It reflects my attention to structural stability, drainage, and long-term performance.