Heckfield Exterior Cantilevered Staircase
At an exclusive hotel near Reading in Berkshire, a sweeping exterior cantilevered stone staircase forms a memorable approach to an underground cinema.
Working with Spratleys Architects and main contractor Operis Construction, AFJONES designed, crafted and installed an oval stair in York stone that feels both sculptural and assured.
EXTERIOR CANTILEVERED
STAIR IN STONE
AN OVAL DESCENT TO
THE CINEMA
The staircase announces itself as a significant architectural moment in the landscape, leading guests down from the grounds to a cinema below.
Its oval plan and progressive fall create a gentle, choreographed descent, with the stonework acting as both structure and a calm visual guide.
STONE AND BRONZE
IN BALANCE
Crossland Hill York stone was selected for its strength, weathering performance and character.
The cantilevered treads are highly specific, rebated and interconnecting, allowing each step to work with the wall and with its neighbours to carry loads safely while maintaining an elegant, slender profile.
DETAIL THAT INVITES
CLOSER INSPECTION
Bronze nosings set into each step add a precise line of contrast and durability at the tread edge, catching light and marking each transition underfoot.
The stairwell walls are formed from a variety of quarry stones, creating a controlled mix of colour, size and texture that sets off the smooth stone of the steps and emphasises their refinement.
STONE SELECTION FOR EXTERNAL PERFORMANCE
ENGINEERING AND
CANTILEVERED GEOMETRY
Choosing Crossland Hill York stone gave the stair a material capable of standing up to external conditions while ageing gracefully.
AFJONES ensured consistent selection and finishing so that the treads read as a unified, continuous ribbon of stone, robust enough for frequent use but visually light in the setting.
COORDINATION WITH DESIGN
AND BUILD TEAM
The geometry, fixings and sequencing of an exterior cantilevered stair demand careful planning.
AFJONES developed the design detail in close collaboration with Spratleys Architects and Operis Construction, resolving interfaces with surrounding structure and landscape to ensure the stair could be built with confidence and maintained over time.
AN ENDURING EXPERIENCE
FOR GUESTS
For guests, the staircase is more than a route: it is part of the experience of arriving at the cinema, combining structural ingenuity with tactile materials and carefully judged detailing.
For the client, it represents an investment in craftsmanship and permanence – a piece of stonework that adds value to the hotel and will continue to make an impression for years to come.
This project exemplifies AFJONES’ ability to handle complex cantilevered staircases in demanding contexts.
By bringing together stone selection, structural thinking, digital design and on-site craft, the team created an exterior stair that feels effortless to use, precise in execution and completely aligned with the character of its setting.
RESOURCES &
Education
Stone has shaped architecture for centuries, and it continues to define the most ambitious projects today
At AFJONES, we make stonework possible at the highest level by combining artistry, engineering, and generations of craft knowledge.
Our integrated process covers every stage, from early consultation and design input through to workshop production and on-site installation. This ensures that projects are delivered seamlessly and with absolute precision.
