Stone Staircase Rebuild

Project Summary

Restoring Beauty and Safety to a Historic Home Entrance

Interiors Plus+ recently completed a stone staircase rebuild at a Frank Lloyd Wright–influenced home in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. The homeowner reached out because their existing exterior staircase was failing and becoming unsafe to use. The original stairs were constructed with a poured gravel and concrete finish layered over structural concrete steps. Over time, the top layer had deteriorated, creating loose stone, uneven surfaces, and slipping hazards.

As a local home improvement contractor experienced in both structural repair and aesthetic restoration, Interiors Plus+ was hired to design a new, durable surface that would complement the home’s mid-century architectural character while improving safety and longevity.

Project Goals: Restore Function, Preserve Architectural Style

The primary goals for this staircase renovation were to:
• Remove the deteriorating concrete overlay without damaging the structural steps beneath
• Improve traction and long-term durability
• Enhance the curb appeal of the entrance
• Choose a material that feels natural, timeless, and architecturally appropriate

After reviewing several material options with the homeowner—including tile, concrete overlays, and textured stone finishes—we selected flagstone as the final surface material. Its warm, organic appearance complemented the home’s style and provided the durability needed for Wisconsin’s changing seasons.

The Process: Careful Removal, Custom Fitting, and Stone Placement

This project was highly labor-intensive and required meticulous attention to detail. Before any new material could be installed, we needed to chip away and remove the old failing layer of concrete without damaging the structural foundation underneath. This step took time, patience, and careful craftsmanship to ensure the original staircase remained solid and intact.

Once the base was cleaned and prepped, our next challenge was fitting the flagstone. Because flagstone is irregular by nature, each piece needed to be measured, shaped, and placed by hand. This process was almost like assembling a natural stone puzzle — one that required both technical skill and an eye for design.

The result is a seamless stone staircase surface that seamlessly blends with the home’s original architecture — not something added after the fact.

Final Results: A Safe, Beautiful, and Long-Lasting Entrance

The completed staircase not only solved the original safety concerns but also significantly enhanced the visual appeal of the home’s exterior. The client was delighted with how the new stonework seamlessly blends with the surrounding landscape and architectural details.

This project is an excellent example of the type of specialty home improvements that Interiors Plus+ is known for—projects that require skill, patience, and a strong understanding of both design and structure.