DIY Concrete Floating Steps (Modern Look)

DIY Concrete Floating Steps (Modern Look)

Floating steps create a modern look with a cantilevered design. The secret is the cantilever—you build a smaller base form and a larger top form to create the floating shadow line. Understanding this technique helps you build modern, eye-catching steps.

The Secret: Cantilever Design

The floating effect comes from cantilevering:

• Cantilever: Top extends beyond base
• Creates shadow: Creates floating shadow line
• Modern look: Contemporary, architectural appearance
• Visual effect: Step appears to float

How to Build Floating Steps

Build two forms:

1. Smaller Base Form

• Foundation: Smaller form creates base
• Support: Provides structural support
• Hidden: Base is smaller, hidden by top

2. Larger Top Form

• Cantilevers over base: Extends beyond base
• Visible surface: This is what you see
• Creates shadow: Extension creates floating effect

Step-by-Step Process

1. Build base form: Create smaller base form
2. Pour base: Pour concrete for base
3. Build top form: Create larger top form extending over base
4. Pour top: Pour concrete for top (cantilevers over base)
5. Remove forms: Remove forms to reveal floating effect

The Bottom Line

Floating steps use a cantilever design—build a smaller base form and a larger top form that extends beyond it to create the floating shadow line. This creates a modern, architectural look where steps appear to float. The cantilever technique is what makes floating steps work.

Want floating steps? Contact Local Concrete Contractor. We can build modern floating steps with proper cantilever design.