Curved stone staircase renovation, London home basement to street entrance
Pictured: The completed curved stone staircase with bespoke wrought iron railings, expertly crafted and installed by Stone Steps and Paving
At a beautiful home on Warrington Crescent, Maida Vale, the basement-to-street entrance stone staircase had become both unsightly and unsafe. The homeowner’s personal assistant and builder reached out to us at Stone Steps and Paving to restore both the safety and visual appeal of the staircase while addressing any underlying structural concerns.
The existing steps had been overlaid in past repairs, creating uneven heights, and the basement paving was sitting too high in relation to the building’s damp-proof course.
Before and After Photo: Curved stone staircase transformation
Pictured: The transformation of the stone staircase, showing the improved step alignment and elegant finish after Stone Steps and Paving’s renovation
Challenge: Uneven steps and damp-proofing risks
The primary issues with the staircase and paving were their poor past installation and incorrect levels. The previous overlay had resulted in steps of inconsistent heights, posing a tripping hazard. More critically, the basement paving had been raised too high, bridging the damp-proof course (DPC) of the building.
This kind of mistake is unfortunately common when paving is simply laid on top of older surfaces without considering long-term effects. By bridging the damp-proof course, moisture that should remain well below the building’s protective barrier was now dangerously close. If drains became blocked or heavy rain occurred, water could potentially rise above the DPC, leading to wall saturation and internal damp issues—a particular concern for older buildings with solid walls.
Pictured: The original uneven steps and high basement paving, which posed a safety hazard and risked damp-proofing issues
After highlighting these risks to the builder and the owner’s assistant, they quickly asked us to quote for the work and confirm our availability. We later learned that other contractors had visited but failed to identify this key issue. Once the cost was agreed upon, we scheduled the project immediately.
Solution: Precision-cut stone and improved drainage
Pictured: Work-in-progress photo of the precision-cut stone steps during installation
Given the curved and tapering shape of the steps, our first step was to create custom templates on-site. These templates were sent to our workshop to cut the stone accurately, ensuring minimal cutting would be needed during installation.
To properly address the damp-proofing issue, we removed the existing basement paving and dug down to ensure the new stone would be installed at the correct height in relation to the steps, front door, and damp-proof course. By lowering the ground level, we also had the opportunity to improve drainage, installing a new gully and ensuring the new paving would fall towards it to channel water away effectively.
Result: A safer, more elegant staircase and satisfied client
Pictured: The beautifully restored stone staircase, featuring a smooth finish and correct step heights for safe and stylish access
As soon as work began, we received positive feedback from the homeowner, who was abroad at the time. They were impressed by our efficiency and professionalism, receiving regular video and photo updates from their housekeeper and assistant. This gave them confidence in our team, allowing them to relax, knowing their home was in good hands.
Once the stone installation was complete, we moved on to render repairs and decoration before installing bespoke wrought iron railings. Given the curved shape of the staircase, we shaped the railings on-site to ensure a perfect match to the steps, achieving a seamless and elegant finish.
The project was completed in four weeks, and the homeowner was so pleased with the results that they have already asked us to carry out further work on their rear garden.
Pictured: A view up the renovated stairs
This project highlights how attention to detail can prevent long-term structural issues. Unlike previous contractors, we identified a hidden risk, corrected the problem, and delivered a safe, stylish, and durable staircase that enhances the property’s appeal.
If you need a stone staircase renovation, new stone steps, or paving work, contact us today to discuss your project.
See also
Project summary
At a Maida Vale home, Stone Steps and Paving restored a curved basement-to-street entrance staircase, correcting uneven steps and damp-proofing issues. We precision-cut new stone, improved drainage, and installed bespoke wrought iron railings, delivering a safer, more elegant entrance. Location: Warrington Crescent, Maida Vale, London, W9.
