Cantilever Stone
Staircases
Stone that appears weightless; each tread is simply embedded into a wall on one edge, the other free edge more slender than any other type of staircase, in any material.
Service Details
Stone staircases are what AFJONES is best known for. We design, engineer and build cantilevered stone staircases for private houses across the UK, from a single flight to a full-height spiral.
A cantilevered stone staircase represents the perfect intersection of traditional masonry and modern structural engineering. By utilising the natural compressive strength of stone, we create elegant, gravity-defying flights that offer a level of slenderness and permanence impossible to achieve with other materials.
Only solid stone staircases are both the primary structure as well as the architectural finish (with no other cladding or decorative elements). They are also more slender than any other material option.
Material Selection
Choosing the Right Stone
Stone selection is paramount. Not just strength and wear resistance, but also block size availability and finishes treatments, not to mention budget. We provide all options and guidance for success.
The stone selection and finish has more to it than a basic choice: we provide expertise on testing requirements, variability & shell content, slip resistance, and how the stone responds to arris and balustrade insert details. Many options are possible, each with their own merits.
We have strong and direct relationships with many quarries, and we also work closely with selected stone buyers, to obtain the best quality raw stone blocks at the best possible prices. The best 'ingredients' make for the best project results.
Technical Delivery
From Design to Installation
Each staircase project is developed and fully modelled in 3D. As part of our service we take on the full structural design responsibility. Furthermore we coordinate and integrate each touch point where the stair is supported onto the buildings core structure.
We advise on vital arrangements and details such as building control compliance, tread sectional shape options, tread nosings, handrail interfaces, soffit details, landing edgings, landing connections, finishes and so much more.
From conceptual sketch to final delivery — our service includes our advice and knowledge regarding buildability, site logistics, and particularly lifting arrangements. From engaging with us to deliver this, you can be sure that the project will run smoothly.
We're experienced in producing the finest cantilevered stone staircases.
From initial structural calculations to the final hand-rubbed finish, we provide the specialist support needed to deliver a flawless cantilevered staircase. Contact us to discuss your project requirements or to visit our workshops and see our production process firsthand.
Questions
Stone staircases, answered
The questions we are asked most often about cantilevered stone staircases. For anything else, ask the team.
How does a cantilever stone staircase work?
Each solid stone tread is built into the wall at one end and bears on the tread below along its length. The treads lock together so the whole flight acts as one structure, and the free edge appears to float. The wall carries the load, which is why we check the wall construction before we design the stair.
Is a cantilevered stone staircase safe without a support underneath?
Yes. The structure is in the treads and the wall, not in a stringer or posts. Every AFJONES staircase is engineered before it is cut, and we work with your structural engineer and building control. A balustrade is still fitted for the people using it.
Which stones can be used?
Dense limestones and sandstones are the usual choice, and marble is used where the interior calls for it. We advise on the right stone for the span, the finish and the setting, and we cut and finish it in our Oxfordshire workshop.
How much does a cantilevered stone staircase cost?
Every staircase is priced individually. The main factors are the number of treads, the span and shape of the flight, the stone, the finish and the balustrade. Send us a drawing or a photograph of the space and we will give you a budget figure to work with.
How long does it take?
Design and engineering come first, with templating on site once the walls are built. Cutting and finishing follow in the workshop, and installation takes a few days for a typical flight. We fit the programme around the build.
Do you work with architects and builders anywhere in the UK?
Yes. Most of our staircases are commissioned through architects, interior designers and main contractors, and we install across the UK from our base near Wallingford in Oxfordshire.
Get in Touch
Start a
Conversation
Tell us about your project and one of our team will come back to you within one working day. Early advice on stone selection, structure and budget is always free.