too, with anti-stain and anti-slip treatments being able to
be easily applied onsite and much more effectively for the
customer.
The craft of shaping a natural material to form structures
– stone masonry – has not changed radically in years. The
same intricate detail and architectural design that was
achievable by a hammer and chisel in the thirteenth century
remains achievable today, with techniques being passed
down for centuries. However, advancements in production
processes mean that the huge physical and time element,
not to mention cost, previously associated with stone as a
material are dramatically cut as primary cutting elements,
for example, are taken over by robotics. Thus, making it
easier for today’s stonemasons to create their masterpieces
by hand in days and weeks, rather than years. Add to this,
the advancements in design and the fact that we are always
pushing the boundaries, the potential for stone uses within
buildings really does open-up, from grand listed buildings to
modern mansions in the heart of the city.
The wow-factor of a sweeping stone staircase could be a
stunning practical design option when historically it was not.
Nothing beats the elegance or endurance of the material
and the options for application are constantly moving
forwards.
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