Stepping It Up

In the outdoor project we've been following, we've watched as the area has been cleared, fill dirt has been brought in and graded, and now we're ready to start forming the steps that will lead from the pool area down to the nature area behind the house.

Laying out steps like this takes time and considerable expertise.  First, the amount of "drop" is determined, which will dictate how many steps will be used.  There is a fair amount of variation on the supposed standard measurements required for risers and steps.  But generally, what's most important is that the steps are consistent.  In this instance, the steps were intentionally fashioned in different sizes to give them the appearance that they were casually placed into the wild landscape.  Regardless, the formation of the steps took a lot of time!

The steps are being formed with stacking blocks.  These will also be used for the retaining wall at the top of the step area.

Once all of that is in place, these coordinating pavers will be used to form the treads of the steps, and the step-out patio area at the top.  Slow work, but it's going to look great.  More next week!