Stone Shows Massive Potential for Homes

People have been making homes of stone for millennia. But whereas in the past the stone had to be locally quarried and stacked, today we can get it from near and far, and we can use it as full blocks and thin veneers. The end result: We can select stone that has the color and texture we want for much less cost.

Suitable for any style and any location, stone provides a sense of solidity, permanence and strength. Whether used in blocks or as a veneer, stone can yield a full spectrum of results. Options for which stone you use and how you use it are limitless.

If you are considering stone for your project, the best place to start is by going to a local supplier, such as Illinois Brick & Stone if you live in that area. You'll be able to look at several different stones as well as manufactured versions like Eldorado and Cultured Stone. Once you've narrowed your choices to a few, ask the suppliers for a list of any homes in your area that have used those materials. A field trip to see the stone in place is well worth it.

Consider some of these possibilities for using stone in your next home project.

 china faux stone manufacturers can make a great base. Because of stone's sense of permanence, a stone base can anchor and establish a structure firmly in place. Larger stones in an irregular pattern create a firm base that complements the lightness of the structure above.
by Narofsky Architecture + ways2design »
Stone can work for contemporary homes. Interlocking volumes clad in stone that provides texture can enliven a home's composition. And the rough texture of stone can be a nice counterpoint to the adjoining wood and metal.

  china faux stone manufacturers can be any color. From reds, blues and greens to oranges, yellows and more, stone can vary widely in color. Selecting a stone that has the hue you want, whether to blend in or stand out, has never been easier.
by Michael Kelley Photography »
Stone can be left raw. Stone in its undressed state is rock, and rocks can be piled on top of one another to establish a connection to the site. As it transforms into stone, it becomes less foundation and more wall.

Stone can create emphasis. A change in material from stucco to stone and a change in color from light to dark can create a focal point at the entrance or some other architectural feature.

Stone can be thin. Whether it's manufactured stone veneer or naturally quarried stone that has been cut into a thin veneer, stone no longer needs to be heavy, massive and thick. Like today's brick, stone can be applied as a paper-thin, two-dimensional decorative element.

Stone can form an anchoring wall. As a front facade or an accent wall, stone can provide an anchoring wall that the remainder of the house grows from and connects to.
by david phillips »
Stone can be shaped and arranged. Dressed into irregular shapes and sizes, the stone is then stacked in a carefully planned, yet seemingly random, pattern that shows thought and craftsmanship.
by Britannia Joinery »
Stone can be old. Weathered and aged stone gives a home the persona of experience and longevity, reinforcing the permanence of what was built.

Stone can be inside, too. With thin stone veneers, it's never been easier, nor more cost effective, to bring stone in from the cold. edited by china 

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