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Curved timber garden stairs

I transformed a steep, unused slope into a curved timber stairway that flows naturally with the landscape. Each step was precisely measured, levelled, and secured with garden pegs and hex screws to form a gentle rise and sweeping curve. Once complete, the stairs were filled with river pebbles, edged with stone walls, and finished with a rustic wire-and-post fence as a hand rail and also featuring a period style gate. Surrounded by fresh plantings and mulch, the project turned a bare incline into a striking, functional garden feature that blends craftsmanship with natural charm.

Materials

I initially marked the area with marking paint. Strong foundations started with H4 treated 200 x 50mm pine for the sides and risers, with the original lengths being cut to size. Each step was anchored with 300 mm galvanised garden edge stakes fixed with 75mm countersunk treated pine screws. Additionally each subsequent step was attached to the preceding step to with 14G 100 mm counter batten screws. The stairs were then dressed with 4-6 mm river pebbles, with the surrounds covered with lush plantings and mulch to soften the look. Rustic reclaimed Australian hardwood fence posts were used along with fencing wire as a unique handrail for safety. To add to the charm a Balmain Federation Gate was also used.

Tools

The following tools were used, being part manual and electric including a spade; mattock; trenching shovel; and large crowbar along with an electric demolition jackhammer were used to dig out a path up the slope. An electric slide-saw and ripping saw were used to cut the timber to shape and length. I used a tape measure and spirit level to ensure each step was placed in the correct position to accumulate a beautiful and balanced curve. Finally electric drills, bits, recip saw and a hammer brought it all together - turning raw timber and river stone into a handcrafted staircase built to last.

Steps

Step 1

I measured the total height and run required for the stairs. I marked out the curves I wanted on the ground and then worked out how many stairs and what dimensions they would need to be. I then set about cutting and making the stairs (the trick to the curve was ensuring the inner side of each stair was proportionally shorter then the outer side) Ultimately the curves were only a series of straight line joined together.

Step 2

Once all the stairs were in place I placed several rustic fence posts down the stair line. I included a gate as a nice highlight and feature. From a more practical perspective I placed fencing wire in the fence to create an aesthetic handrail as the stairs are quite steep in parts. I also created a rock wall to incorporate the stairs into an existing rock wall.

Step 3

Once all the stairs were in place I dug out the dirt in each step and landing and infilled with river pebbles to give the project a classy and easy to maintain finish. I also planted green grasses, shubs and ferns around the stairs and added mulch to really soften the area. I also added an ornamental windmill to compliment the rustic fence and gate.

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Comments

EricL

Hello @Foxhunt

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your curved timber garden stairs project.

What a lovely job you’ve done with this stairway! The gentle curve of the timber steps fits the landscape perfectly, and the mix of gravel and stone gives it such a natural, welcoming feel. The rustic handrail and windmill sculpture add a nice touch of character, while the plants bring everything to life. It looks like a peaceful path that invites you to wander up and enjoy the view.

Eric

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