Front and Side Stair & Concrete Walkway Renovation in Lake Bluff, IL

This project in Lake Bluff, IL combined a complete front entrance renovation with the reconstruction of the side entrance stairs and walkway. The work included new reinforced concrete stairs, new concrete sidewalks, Lannon stone veneers, Indiana limestone treads, limestone pavers, and a fully reconstructed front walkway to create a durable, cohesive, and attractive entrance system.

Project Goals

• Reconstruct the side entrance stairs and walkway.
• Build a new reinforced concrete staircase.
• Create a durable concrete sidewalk connecting the front of the home to the side stairs.
• Upgrade the existing front staircase with natural stone finishes.
• Install new limestone stair treads and landing pavers.
• Replace the existing front walkway with new concrete.
• Improve the property’s curb appeal, safety, and long-term durability.
• Side Entrance Stair and Walkway Reconstruction

The existing side stairs were removed and disposed of to prepare the area for a completely new staircase and sidewalk.

The area was then framed and prepared for the new construction. The new staircase was designed to be approximately 4 feet wide with three steps, providing a more functional and durable connection along the side of the home.

Rebar was installed within the new stairs for additional structural reinforcement before the concrete was poured.

The new stairs and sidewalk were constructed using approximately 5 inches of concrete for a strong and durable finished surface.

Sidewalk Installation

A new concrete walkway was constructed from the side staircase toward the city sidewalk.

The walkway measures approximately 4 feet wide by 20 feet long and flares to approximately 6 feet wide at the top of the stairs before continuing straight toward the city sidewalk.

The new layout provides a wider and more accessible transition between the home and the public sidewalk.

Front Staircase Renovation

The existing front staircase was completely upgraded with natural stone finishes.

Lannon stone veneer was installed over the existing staircase, with the stone completed using mortared joints to create a cohesive and durable appearance.

Indiana limestone treads were installed on the stairs, including bullnose stone treads for a finished edge and refined appearance.

Front Landing Installation

The front landing was upgraded with limestone pavers to complement the new natural stone staircase.

All stone materials were installed using mortar to create a secure and cohesive installation throughout the front entrance.

The combination of Lannon stone, Indiana limestone, and limestone pavers creates a unified natural-stone design that complements the home’s exterior.

Front Walkway Reconstruction

The existing front walkway from the stairs to the city sidewalk was removed to prepare for a completely new concrete walkway.

The area was framed and prepared before installing approximately 3–4 inches of stone base.

New concrete, approximately 4–5 inches thick, was then poured to create a durable and stable front walkway.

The surrounding areas were backfilled and seeded following construction to restore the landscape around the new concrete.

Landscape Maintenance

As part of the project, the existing burning bush along the west side of the property was trimmed to improve the appearance of the surrounding landscape and maintain clearance around the newly improved areas.

Why Entrance Reconstruction Matters

Front and side entrances experience constant foot traffic and exposure to the elements, making structural stability and quality materials essential.

Reinforced concrete provides a durable foundation for stairs and walkways, while natural stone finishes can enhance the appearance and longevity of the entrance.

Combining properly prepared concrete surfaces with quality stone materials creates an entrance that is both functional and visually cohesive.

Project Highlights

• Existing side stairs removed and disposed of.
• New 4-foot-wide side staircase.
• Three new concrete steps.
• Rebar reinforcement in the new stairs.
• Approximately 5 inches of concrete in the stairs and side walkway.
• New approximately 4′ x 20′ side concrete walkway.
• Walkway flared to approximately 6 feet at the top of the stairs.
• New walkway connection to the city sidewalk.
• Lannon stone veneer on the front staircase.
• Mortared stone joints.
• Indiana limestone stair treads.
• Bullnose limestone treads.
• Limestone pavers for the front landing.
• Mortared stone installation throughout the front entrance.
• Existing front walkway removed.
• New stone base beneath front walkway.
• Approximately 4–5 inches of new concrete.
• Backfilling and seeding around completed work.
• Burning bush trimming along the west side of the property.

As you browse through the photos, you will see the demolition and preparation of the existing stairs and walkways, concrete reconstruction, reinforcement work, natural stone installation, limestone treads, landing pavers, and final landscaping touches as the project came together.

The result is a completely updated entrance system in Lake Bluff, IL, featuring durable new concrete stairs and walkways alongside elegant natural stone finishes that improve the property’s functionality, safety, and curb appeal.

---

Please call 847.698.6868 or Contact Us

Tommy Pollina Landscape Company – serving Chicagoland since 1982.