Stone Dimensions - Fall/Winter 2007 - (Page 8)

The incorporation of oversized random pavers, muted slabs, intricate mosaics and reclaimed architectural elements is just the beginning of the long road to creating a historically accurate dwelling. There will be endless details to explore, scrutinize and attend to, but beginning the process with natural stone will provide a solid foundation upon which to build. Architects and designers fully understand that not every homeowner aspires to create an authentic reproduction of a centuries old dwelling. Most hope simply to capture the essence of a bygone era. Stone, characteristically associated with these classic designs, brings with it the intrinsic beauty and vibrant energy necessary to emulate this feeling. With a little imagination and determination, homeowners now have the ability to create private residences that will be become the “new old homes” for future generations to enjoy and aspire to. Below are tips to help create the look of age using natural stone. Take these ideas with you, expound upon them, add your own unique twist and create today’s history. Tips for creating authentic style with stone: • Do your research. Visit authentically old homes in the region you hope to emulate if time and budget allows. If not, there are a plethora of wonderful books and magazines that will help guide your selections. • Stay as true as possible to the chosen architectural style of your home by incorporating reclaimed materials from the era being replicated. • Focus on the focal points. Placing one-of-a-kind architectural elements in these highly visual zones will allow your budget to stretch much further. These include pieces such as oversized vent hoods, fireplace surrounds, courtyard fountains, arches and columns. • Include dramatic details such as inlaid rugs and medallions with a rich patina. • Research historical tile patterns and seek out the ones best fit for your motif. Pay close attention to tile spacing, grout color and sealer finish to obtain the most realistic look. • Avoid polished stones in favor of those that are matte finished, muted and appear worn. • Select a simple edge profile or a rugged chiseled edge for stone slabs. • On the floor, consider blending several stone colors such as ochre, cream and mushroom for a truly random look. • Incorporate exposed stone walls comprised of irregular sizes and shapes. • Use plenty of texture and dimension in your design for a 3D effect. Style-specific tips: Old world: For flooring choose large random pavers that are chipped and worn or a very old looking stone, such as a dark and distressed un-filled travertine in a random pattern. Consider a honed or brushed stone for countertops including travertine, limestone, marble or granite. Use muted mosaics and decorative etched tiles as accents. Select a rustic field tile for the backsplash and insert real metal accents that feature an aged patina. Stick with earthy natural colors such as walnut, wheat, cocoa and cream. www.stonedimensionsmagazine.com Master bath with Venezian granite in color Lido with chiseled edge 8 StoneDimensions http://www.stonedimensionsmagazine.com

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Stone Dimensions - Fall/Winter 2007

Contents Featured Designer: Heather E. Adams: Creating Authentic Style with Stone Pricey, But Worth It: Kitchen & Bath Design News Masters of Design Awards Success the Second Time Around: Remodeling a Master Bath Gallery of Ideas Hard Rock...Easy Choice: Granite is Truly a Stone for the Ages White Marble: Gaining Popularity in Kitchens Travertine Index of Photographs

Stone Dimensions - Fall/Winter 2007

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