Garden steps - functionality and design for outdoor areas
A garden staircase is much more than just a practical element that connects different levels in the garden. It is a central design element that characterises the overall appearance, facilitates access to terraces, seating areas or the house and also ensures safety. The variety of materials, shapes and designs is huge and there are classic concrete steps, elegant block steps made of natural stone or modern versions with steel stair stringers. With the right planning, a partner like egli jona and a solid foundation, every staircase becomes a long-lasting and stylish part of the garden design.
A garden staircase fulfils several functions
A garden staircase fulfils more functions than you might think. They level out any differences in height in the garden, create safe access to different areas and structure the property.
At the same time, it is an important visual element and contributes to the value of the entire garden. We therefore always pay attention to the integration of stairs and steps in every garden design, which are appealing to the eye and functional at the same time.
The requirements for a garden staircase are many and varied: it must be stable, withstand the stresses of outdoor use, offer a comfortable step width and safe gradients and blend harmoniously into the overall appearance. Technical specifications such as width, height, angle and length play a role, as do design aspects such as shape, materials and lighting for safety.
Materials and variants of stairs for the garden
Choosing the right materials is crucial for the effect and durability of a garden staircase. Each type has its own strengths and areas of application.
- Concrete stairs: They are robust, durable and weather-resistant. Concrete steps are considered a classic in outdoor areas and are available in many variants. They impress with their clear appearance and high load-bearing capacity.
- Block steps made of natural stone: Natural stone, for example granite, sandstone or basalt, gives the steps a refined character and blends harmoniously into the garden. Each step is unique and contributes to the individual design. Natural stone also fits in with different garden styles and can be combined perfectly.
- Wooden stairs: They create a warm atmosphere and go particularly well with both natural and modern gardens. However, they do require more maintenance, as wood needs to be treated regularly to ensure a long service life. This aspect should be taken into account when making your choice.
- Steel stair stringers: Modern solutions rely on combinations of steel and stone or wood. They look delicate, but are stable at the same time.
In addition to classic materials, there are also ceramic slabs, composite materials or combinations of concrete and natural stone that open up new design possibilities. We will be happy to advise you on your options.
Planning and construction
Careful planning is the basis of every garden staircase. The requirements of the property must be taken into account: How great is the difference in height that should be overcome with the stairs? What stair width is appropriate? How many steps are needed?
- Step width and gradients: A staircase that is comfortable to walk on has a tread depth of at least 30 cm and a rise of around 12-15 cm.
- Number of steps: The number of steps is calculated depending on the height of the terrain.
- Foundation: A load-bearing concrete foundation forms the basis for a permanently stable and stable staircase construction.
- Gradient: The terrain must be taken into account so that the staircase is harmoniously integrated.
- Stair stringers and banisters: They provide additional stability and increase safety, especially on stairs with several steps.
Building a garden staircase is a step-by-step process. Firstly, a stable foundation is created on which the steps are then laid. Depending on the design, the steps can either be laid as block steps or as slabs.
Functionality and safety
A garden staircase must not only look good, but also be functional. Safety plays a central role here.
- Railing and handrail: Railings are indispensable, especially for higher stairs. They provide support and increase safety.
- Lighting: Built-in or side lighting ensures that the staircase can be used safely even in the dark and looks more attractive at the same time.
- Width and shape: Sufficient stair width facilitates use and prevents accidents.
- Surface: Non-slip materials are important to make the stairs safe to walk on even in the rain.
Design and appearance
In addition to functionality, appearance plays a major role. A garden staircase is a central design element that characterises the overall appearance of the garden.
- Terrace staircase: It connects the patio with the garden and creates a smooth transition. This type of staircase can be found in most gardens and often attracts everyone's attention.
- External staircase: It leads from the house into the garden and is often designed to be representative, as it is a central element.
- Shape and angle: Straight staircases look clear and modern, while curved shapes convey elegance. Even though there are ready-made staircases from various manufacturers, most types of staircases are customised to suit the terrain and the customer's specific requirements.
- Materials and colours: Natural stone looks elegant, concrete modern, wood warm. The choice depends on the desired garden style.
Inspiration, further information and reference projects at egli jona
Many of our customers start their search for ideas by looking at the Reference projects on our website. There we show our own projects, which demonstrate the whole variety of possibilities that we offer. These include not only garden staircases, but also complete design concepts. These projects not only give an overview of the design spectrum, but also provide valuable information and tips for your own planning.
If you are planning a complete garden design and would also like a pool, we recommend a visit to our show garden with pool exhibition in Aathal. In the Gartenvilla you can be inspired by various materials, 7 pools and a wide selection of planters.
egli jona - Your partner for garden stairs
At egli jona, we see the garden staircase as more than just a functional element. They are part of the overall garden design, an expression of value, functionality and appearance. With our many years of experience in garden design, we support you from the initial planning stage through to the selection of suitable materials and professional implementation.
We offer a wide range of solutions from classic concrete steps to elegant block steps made of natural stone and modern designs. Each variant is carefully planned so that it blends harmoniously into your property and fulfils the desired requirements.
Our services in the garden staircase sector:
- Personalised advice and detailed planning with all relevant information on width, height and number of steps
- Realisation of patio staircases, external staircases and functional entrances
- Selection of high-quality materials such as concrete, natural stone or wood
- Integration of railings, handrails and lighting for maximum safety
- Sustainable alternatives with a view to care, weather resistance and long-term use
With us, you have a strong partner at your side who will answer your questions, take your wishes seriously and develop solutions together with you. Our aim is to create garden staircases that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing and fit perfectly into the garden. We create steps that are real eye-catchers in the garden thanks to their variety, their appearance and their well thought-out design.
Garden steps as part of the garden design
Garden steps are indispensable elements in modern horticulture. They combine functionality, safety and design and create access points that are both practical and aesthetic. Each solution has its own advantages and possible applications.
Take advantage of our information, browse through our Reference projects and let our experts advise you in detail. With the right planning and professional execution, your garden staircase will become a design element that not only inspires today, but also lasts in the long term.
Contact us today for a consultation. We look forward to working with you on your project to create a new living space in your garden that you will enjoy for many years to come.
