Architectural Concrete Floating Stairs in Brisbane and the Gold Coast
Create a Striking Feature Element with Floating Concrete Stairs
Concrete floating stairs are one of those rare features that change the entire feel of a home. They draw the eye, shape the space and create a sense of calm, deliberate design. At Conker, we have been building floating stairs long before they became a trend. What started as experimentation in our early landscaping work has now become one of our signature crafts for homes across Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
Every set of floating concrete stairs we build is original. There is no template, no precast panels and no shortcuts. Each project is designed, engineered and built in situ to suit the shape of the land and the personality of the home. It is a form of concrete work that sits between art and structural engineering, where every millimetre matters.
Floating concrete stairs look deceptively simple. The reality is that they demand absolute precision, an understanding of load paths and a careful approach to the formwork so the finished shape feels light, balanced and confident. When done correctly, they appear to hover effortlessly. When done poorly, they crack, lean, move or simply fail the design intent.
If you want a feature staircase that feels sculptural, functional and timeless, floating concrete stairs are one of the strongest design investments you can make. And this is where Conker’s experience stands out.
Make a lasting impression with the unique look of floating concrete stairs
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Concrete Floating Stairs Design and Engineering That Bring Vision to Life
The best floating stairs start long before the concrete truck arrives. They begin with design, engineering and clear intention. We take the time to understand your space, the way the levels work and how you want the stairs to look and feel as you move through your home or garden.
We work alongside licensed engineers and, when required, electricians for integrated lighting. This ensures every project meets QBCC and NCC standards while still maintaining the visual lightness floating stairs are known for.
Our stairs are always built in situ. This gives us full control over structure, shape and detail. It allows us to create crisp edges, clean lines and perfectly matched gradients that connect seamlessly to surrounding pathways, decks, retaining walls or entry areas.
Attention to detail is the difference between average and exceptional. Correct reinforcement, stable formwork, expansion allowances, waterproofing integration, a deliberate pour sequence all contribute to a staircase that lasts decades instead of seasons.
The end result feels effortless. Yet behind every step is a process that treats the project like a piece of architecture rather than a simple access structure.
Master Concreters, founded in 2006, serves as a national organisation that promotes best practices, and high-quality workmanship within the industry. Its main goal is to raise standards within the industry. Accreditation is a demonstration of adherence to these values.
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The Housing Industry Association is an association of more than 40,000 members working in the housing industry. It is the peak national industry association for the residential construction and home building, renovation and development industry in Australia.
Master Builders is the home of building and the peak industry association representing building and construction since 1882. They support members to operate professional businesses that deliver superior quality to their customers.
We are proud to be one of only 4 accredited Geostone Installers within Brisbane. The Geostone approved installer network is a moniker of excellence within the industry and testament to delivering exceptional outcomes for clients. Alongside Geostones standard design range we are able to work with you to develop custom mix design should your project require the bespoke touch.
Floating Concrete Stairs Finishes That Match Architecture, Lifestyle and Climate
Floating stairs are a statement, but the finish is what defines the mood. Your selection affects grip, temperature, appearance, longevity and how the stairs interact with the rest of your home.
Here are the finishes we recommend for Brisbane and Gold Coast projects:
Exposed Aggregate Floating Stairs
A textured, tactile finish that blends beautifully with outdoor environments. Strong grip and natural character make it ideal for landscapes, gardens and entryways.
Honed Concrete Floating Stairs
Smooth, refined and architectural. Honed concrete highlights the purity of the material and suits modern, minimalist designs while maintaining a safe slip rating.
Coloured Concrete Floating Stairs
Perfect for contrast or cohesion. We use full depth oxides and high-quality sealers that resist UV exposure, humidity and coastal conditions.
Burnished and Sealed Finishes
A clean, modern look often chosen for contemporary homes. Burnished stairs offer a sophisticated industrial feel when you want the concrete itself to be the feature.
Every finish is selected with design, safety and climate in mind so your stairs remain beautiful and functional for years.
FINISHES GUIDE
Explore our wide range of Resurfacing colours by clicking on the button below. Get creative by combining colours together to create looks such as exposed aggregate.
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Beyond Floating | Traditional and Commercial Concrete Stair Construction
Floating concrete stairs may be what we are best known for, but our capability extends far beyond them. We also design and construct standard outdoor concrete staircases for residential, commercial and community spaces across Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
This includes access stairs, garden transitions, tiered retaining wall connections, school and council pathways, RSLs, scout halls and multi-level outdoor landscapes. Even with simple designs, our approach stays the same. Planning, compliance, safety and presentation come first.
As codes and accessibility standards evolve, we build stairs that meet all required tolerances without compromising on design intent. Our systems allow us to manage projects with clarity, tidy worksites and a professional delivery that clients trust.
If you want floating stairs that make people stop and stare, or a more traditional staircase built with care and longevity, Conker can bring your idea to life. With expertise in concrete floating stairs construction and design, we ensure every project is precise, safe, and visually stunning.
FAQs
How do floating concrete steps work?
Floating concrete stairs use carefully designed structure and reinforcement to create the appearance of steps that “hover” or cantilever, while all the real strength is hidden within the concrete and supporting structure. The result is clean, sculptural and solid underfoot.
Are floating concrete stairs safe?
Yes. When they are properly designed and built, floating concrete stairs are just as safe as conventional stairs. We work within NCC and Australian Standards for riser heights, treads, handrails and structure, and bring engineers in whenever the design calls for it.
How much do floating concrete stairs cost?
These are highly detailed, custom projects. As a guide, most external floating stair packages are a premium investment, usually beginning at around $15,000 + GST and increasing with size and complexity. A simple rule of thumb is $3,000 to $3,500 per tread. Clients choose them when they want a genuine architectural feature, not just a way of getting from A to B.
Are floating stairs worth it?
If you value design, then yes. Floating stairs become a focal point of the home or landscape and can completely change how a space feels. They are not for every project, but when the brief is to create something special, they make sense.
Can floating concrete stairs be added to an existing home?
In many cases, yes. We assess access, foundations and structure first, then work with your designer or engineer to integrate the stairs into the existing site.
What are floating concrete stairs?
Architectural features designed to make bold statements. Each set is custom to the home, client, and project — essentially a piece of concrete art.
Are floating concrete stairs safe and compliant?
Yes. All stairs are built to Australian codes and structural requirements.
Do I need an engineer for floating concrete stairs?
Not always. Our standard methodology is pre-engineered and signed off. For complex projects, we work with engineers, architects, or designers.
What design options are available for floating concrete stairs?
Finishes include architectural grey, black, or white cements, or a rough finish for later tiling. We aim for a 27mm floating gap.
⚠️ Step risers must be 115–190mm under NCC/AS1657 (check for latest local code).
Can floating concrete stairs be installed outdoors or indoors?
We focus on external projects. Indoor is possible, but not our focus.
How long do floating concrete stairs take to build?
Typically 5–6 days minimum, depending on design.
What foundations or supports are needed for floating concrete stairs?
Varies — we bench into subgrade and tie in stairs, with piers on steeper slopes.
What’s the cost of floating concrete stairs compared to traditional stairs?
Usually 2–3x more, as the process involves building alternating stairs first, then filling the rest — essentially constructing two staircases.
How do I maintain floating concrete stairs?
Simple washdown with sugar soap and water.
