When you think of stonework, perhaps you envision ancient castles and manors, or perhaps even Egyptian pyramids. While it's true that stone was one of the most popular building materials in ancient times, it's also playing an increasingly important role in modern home design. For example, some multimillion-dollar homes are filled with stonework, everywhere from the exterior walls to the floors, steps, kitchen and bathrooms.
Stone has become an increasingly big seller, often outpacing ceramic tile, which once made up about 70 percent of sales in some stores. Enthusiasts say stone has a feel that you can get only from nature. It brings a sense of permanence and solidity and has a richness to it that can't be found in ceramic or man-made materials.
That richness has a price tag attached. Typical stone flooring can cost from $4 to $8 per square foot, and custom flooring can cost much more. Still, if you don 't mind the expense, there are hundreds of beautiful options. The most popular pieces are the limestones and travestines, with precious stones added as accents.
In addition to the more traditional types of stonework, countless design possibilities are available in inlaid stone. Through new technology, computer-controlled water jets can be used to sculpt anything from family crests to wallpaper patterns. The only limit is the designer's imagination. Or, for those who want to stay on top of the latest trends, the solution might be Colorado river rocks. These hand-selected rocks cost approximately $100 per bucket and can be set in concrete to create colorful mosaic patterns.
Although stonework can often be found in the homes of such celebrities as Dan Marino , Cher, Sylvester Stalone and Oprah Winfrey, it's not just for the rich and famous . Many new upscale condominiums and apartments include stone flooring among their features. If properly installed and sealed, it can provide a strong, low-maintenance surface that ages beautifully.
Guests Mary Canty
Designer
Forms and Surfaces
3801 NE Second Ave.
Miami, FL 33137
Phone: 305-576-1880
Fax: 305-576-2386
URL:
www.forms-surfaces.com
Tracy Roth
Custom Home Builder
Tracy Construction and Development Corp.
2124 N.E. 123rd St., Suite 220
North Miami, FL 33181
Phone: 305-893-5545
Fax: 305-899-8566
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