Stone; THE Green Building Material
As stone professionals, we believe that stone is as natural as building material gets, and yet it has not received much attention from the ‘green’ industry until now. A recent article published by BuildingGreen.com has finally given natural stone its due and the future looks promising.
Terrace Planting Beds
Terracing has historically been the best way to deal with slopes, which can be difficult and even dangerous to maintain. Terraces have been in garden design since ancient Persia and Rome and were popular in the Italian Renaissance and with English landscape gardens. Terraces are created by building a series of retaining walls, allowing space for level beds or lawns.
Paver Costs and Installation Budget
The budget for natural paving stone material and installation, can be managed by creative design and careful assessment of installation options and selection/variety of natural stone materials. A qualified stone professional will have suggestions that vary in price, color, look and feel to provide the beauty and quality you desire.
Start Your Garden With Hardscapes
What does the term “hardscape” mean? Lots of people, mostly those who haven’t had a lot of gardening experience or who have never had their own yard, are unfamiliar with the term. It actually refers to the parts of your landscape that are “hard”, or the ‘bones’ such as stone or concrete other material that make up pathways, decks, patios, retaining walls, and structures such as gazebos.
Stone Veneer Options
One of the most important services we offer is stone consultation for stone veneer options. The stone industry loaded with a variety of stone, found both near and far. Local stone sources are important for LEED accreditation, but can present a challenge if not available in your area. No matter, the USA has a enormous supply of natural stone for building and landscape needs in beautiful durable stones such as limestone and granite.
Green Homes = Higher Resale Value
Homes with a ‘Green’ label are worth more, according to a study conducted by researchers with UC Berkeley and UCLA. The study entitled, “Value of Green Labels in the California Housing Market” found that a typical California home valued at $400,000 sells for an average of 8.7%, or $34,800, more when it has a green label. Researchers from UC Berkeley, Nils Kok and UCLA’s Matthew Kahn were able to prove the investment in an energy-efficient home will pay off during resale.
Stonehenge Secret Revealed
Many of the stones at the famous 5,000-year-old attraction came from a site 160 miles away
Design and Installation Collaboration Tips
“A design is only as good as its installation,” words which carry much significance are proven when comparing projects which use beautiful stone materials, and a great design, but do not follow industry standards or take the time and effort to do an excellent installation job.
Historic Gardens: Lessons Learned
Landscape designer and PBS horticultural guru Michael Weishan, recently wrote about three “master-class” historic gardens, for Old House OnLine. His top three choices: The Getty Villa, Malibu CA., historic Williamsburg, and Dumbarton Oaks near D.C.
Permeable Hardscapes
Consider the benefits of permeable pavers and permeable hardscape in residential design and incorporate where ever possible. What could be more positive than the results attained from a well planned exterior space; garden, hardscape, or driveway design that is both beautiful and kind to the environment?