Monthly Archives: September 2017

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Introduction to Architectural Keystones

When choosing architectural stone elements for your home’s design, there are certain things you may be familiar with and others you may not.  Most people know what a stone column is, but do you know what a keystone is?  A keystone is typically a wedge-shaped piece of stone that is used as the topmost stone in a stone arch.  Design Sponge explains what a keystone is, “In architecture, when building a stone arch, one uses blocks called voussoirs. Each voussoir is precisely cut so that it presses against the surface of its neighboring blocks. The keystone is that wedge-shaped stone placed at the apex of an arch. It’s the final piece placed during construction and it is literally the key that locks all the other stones in place and allows the arch to bear weight. Curiously, it’s actually the stone that takes the least stress of any of the other voussoirs. In the 16th century, Mannerist architects liked to play with the position and size of the keystone, creating a feature by enlarging it or dropping it down slightly.”  The keystone is an architectural element that has been around since ancient civilizations and is something that is still used today.

Keystones are made of natural stone and are carved into beautiful designs to not just serve an architectural purpose, but an aesthetic one as well.  Natural stone keystones come in a variety of stone types and colors and add beauty and originality to any arch design. Natural stone was used in many of the centuries-old structures that are still standing today which is why natural stone still makes a great choice – it is exceptionally durable.  Not only are keystones used in archways but also in the top of some fireplace designs for structural support.  When it all comes down to it, cast stone simply does not have the same strength as natural stone.  It can handle a high amount of compression weight and will provide the strength and durability that you want in your architecture.  If you are renovating your home or simply adding natural stone archways or elements to your home, do not forget to add a beautiful natural stone keystone to ensure durability, strength and architectural integrity.  At Architectural Stone Elements, we have a wide selection of keystone design options and can work with you to create a custom design that adds originality and beauty to your home.

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3 Ways to Incorporate a Wrought Iron Gate Into Your Home’s Design

Wrought iron is a strong, timeless material and has been used in architectural design and décor for centuries.  Wrought iron adds beauty and value to your property in a way that no other material possibly can.  But, possibly one of the biggest advantages is that wrought iron adds immense security because of its strength.  Wrought iron is not easily weathered, damaged or knocked over so you have the peace of mind that you can keep the things inside that you want to (children, pets, etc.), and keep the things outside that you want to (unknown persons, animals, etc.)  Unlike wood or vinyl fences or gates, there is very little maintenance needed to keep your wrought iron looking great.  Additionally, you can achieve any architectural design style or aesthetic that you want with a custom wrought iron gate and its beauty and unique style will accent your home’s architectural design.  There are many ways to incorporate an eye-catching wrought iron gate into your home’s architecture.  Below are 3 ways that you can use a wrought iron gate in your home to add beauty and value.

3 Ways to Incorporate a Wrought Iron Gate Into Your Home’s Design

  1. Driveway
  • There are few things more elegant and impressive than a gated entry your driveway. You will wow your guests with the beauty and style of a wrought iron gated entry to your driveway. But, perhaps even better than impressing people, it will add a tremendous amount of security to your home.  With a wrought iron driveway gate you will have complete control over who you allow onto your property and who you do not.
  1. Front Entry
    • A small or large wrought iron gate can be used to set the tone for the entry to your home. As your guests walk up a path to your front door they will pass through elegantly adorned wrought iron gates before coming to your front door.  Additionally, a wrought iron gate makes a great addition to a home’s front courtyard entry.
  2. Garden Entry
    • A peaceful garden can be a wonderful, secluded place to experience nature. If you have a lovely garden that is in an enclosed portion of your landscape, consider creating an entryway to your garden that will not only set the tone but make the experience even more beautiful.  A wrought iron gate is a wonderful hardscape element to incorporate into your garden so that your landscape has the perfect balance of both softscape and hardscape.

 

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3 Reasons to Use Limestone Flooring in Your Home

When it comes to flooring, limestone is one of the most popular stone choices.  Architects and home owners alike enjoy using limestone in home design because of its beauty, timeless appeal, and durability.  Because of its timeless appeal and durability, it is a great investment for homeowners because it adds value to your home and natural stone makes your home more appealing for resale.  Limestone comes in a variety of colors and patterns so it is conducive to being used in multiple architectural or décor styles or aesthetics.   Limestone is a softer material so it actually feels softer to the touch which can be appealing to homeowners who are replacing carpet because it still feels nice on their feet. It tends to be more neutral so it lends itself well to many modern home design aesthetics.  Limestone is available in such colors as Bianca, Lueders, and Riviera Beige which are neutral stone colors.  Below are 3 reasons why limestone flooring is a great choice for home flooring.

3 Reasons to Use Limestone Flooring in Your Home

  1. Neutral
    • While some homeowners love a rustic look, not all homeowners do. Many current trends in home design lend themselves well to a timeless appeal – clean lines, neutral patterns and neutral colors.  Neutral flooring can withstand time and trends well because it is the elegant yet unobtrusive background on which homeowners can imprint their own décor style.  Whether you live in the home for decades or move in a few years, you will know that your investment in limestone will still be stylish and beautiful.
  2. Durability
    • Limestone is a natural stone and can withstand even heavy traffic without experiencing unsightly or frustrating damage. In fact, there are many ancient structures that were built with limestone that have been not only standing but looking great for thousands of years!  In fact, limestone is one of the few flooring materials that tends to look better with age and wear – it just keeps getting more beautiful.
  3. Low Maintenance
    • Limestone flooring is exceptionally easy to maintain. All it needs is to be properly sealed upon installation (and re-sealed at regular intervals to maintain the sealant’s protective capabilities) and then simple, routine cleaning will keep your floor clean and looking great!  Limestone is also a popular choice among allergy sufferers or those who are immunosuppressed because it is so easy to clean and maintain that it makes it a simple task to maintain a hygienic atmosphere.  In fact, limestone is actually a hypoallergenic flooring material!