{"id":422,"date":"2024-06-07T21:24:48","date_gmt":"2024-06-07T11:24:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422"},"modified":"2024-10-09T16:12:09","modified_gmt":"2024-10-09T05:12:09","slug":"not-just-a-pretty-face","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422","title":{"rendered":"not just a pretty face"},"content":{"rendered":"[vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; row_border_radius_applies=&#8221;bg&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #b88341;\">Is The Beauty of Stone More Than Skin Deep?<\/span><\/h2>\r\n\r\n<h5 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #b88341;\">Damian Cudmore, August 2018<span class=\"\" style=\"display:block;clear:both;height: 0px;padding-top: 20px;border-top-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;\"><\/span><\/span><\/h5>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">There exists a wide variety of stone styles, standards and processes currently being expressed in the residential house sector at all levels.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">This report will discuss two different, and largely separate, categories within Exterior Design culture:<\/span>\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Stone as a Finish Element <\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Stone as a Structural Expression <\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Examples of each may look similar to the other, on the surface. They are both, after all, comprised of stone.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">But they each differ markedly in at least 3 aspects: <\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Architectural Effect<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Craft Process<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Perceived Cost, and<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Personal Architectural Belief<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">To shine a light towards an informed choice between the two, following is an exploration of the features, and philosophies of each stone model. Each approach is dependant upon a belief.<\/span>\r\n<h4><strong><span style=\"color: #283b65;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-439 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Stone-As-A-Finish_IMG_5503-copy.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"373\" srcset=\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Stone-As-A-Finish_IMG_5503-copy.png 500w, https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Stone-As-A-Finish_IMG_5503-copy-300x224.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\r\n<h4><strong><span style=\"color: #283b65;\"><span class=\"\" style=\"display:block;clear:both;height: 0px;padding-top: 20px;border-top-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;\"><\/span>Architectural Belief<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Everyone, including the non-architectural lay person, holds beliefs about their world, including the \u2018built\u2019 world, and their experience of the space within and around it.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">This analysis attempts to expand the choice spectrum beyond stone products and details, towards an understanding of personal architectural belief.<\/span>\r\n<h1 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #b88341;\">Stone As Finish<span class=\"\" style=\"display:block;clear:both;height: 0px;padding-top: 20px;border-top-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;\"><\/span><\/span><\/h1>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-1510 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_STONE-AS-FINISH.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"893\" height=\"1266\" srcset=\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_STONE-AS-FINISH.jpg 893w, https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_STONE-AS-FINISH-212x300.jpg 212w, https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_STONE-AS-FINISH-722x1024.jpg 722w, https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_STONE-AS-FINISH-768x1089.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 893px) 100vw, 893px\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #283b65;\"><span class=\"\" style=\"display:block;clear:both;height: 0px;margin-top: -10px;border-top-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;\"><\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Analysis of architectural stone choices over the last twenty years has seen an increase in the trend of owners and architects adopting a \u2018stone as finish\u2019 model.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The \u2018stone as finish\u2019 point of view sees stone essentially as a Two-Dimensional product, utilised to <\/span><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">\u2018decorate\u2019 a hidden and pre-existing structure with <\/span><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">small <\/span><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">factory-produced, and &#8211; thinly-sliced pieces.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">And within this model a world of choice has exploded.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Where once we crafted and built with chunks of stone quarried on site or in nearby fields, today we may finish our wall surfaces, floors and terraces with stones of a wide variety from all corners of the globe.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">We are awash with choice in surface finish.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">And domestic (as well as commercial) buildings display a wide variety of stone classes, types, colours, tones and textures.<\/span>\r\n<h4><strong><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Contextual Catalysts for the \u2018Stone as Finish\u2019 Model<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The popular trend towards the Stone as Finish Model may have been created as much by contextual catalysts as by pure architectural intention.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">A number of converging contextual factors may have contributed to the widespread popularity of the Stone Finish\/Hidden Structure culture. They are:<\/span>\r\n\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">1. The \u2018Surface Finish\/Hidden Structure\u2019 Delineation<\/span><\/strong>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Within current construction culture there is a belief in a necessary Separation between Structure and Finish.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The culture assumes that first a structure is built, usually in concrete or masonry, then the \u2018finishes\u2019 are added, externally and internally<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The underlying assumption in the Finish model envisages stone primarily as an expressive \u2018Finish\u2019 retrofitted to a pre-existing structure.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">And the Geometric Result here often is a Two Dimensional finish to surface \u2018areas\u2019.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">2. Globalised Supply Market<\/span><\/strong>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Serving the \u2018stone as finish\u2019 culture is a \u2018market\u2019 awash with options.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">From Italy to Turkey to China we have now tonnes of tones and hues awaiting our gaze in showrooms all over the country.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">3. Designers standing on the shoulders of Decorators?<\/span><\/strong>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The Stone as Finish model has origins way back in time. The Romans created \u2018veneer\u2019 finishes for their structures though these were far different from the wafer thin tile dimensions presently in contemporary projects. The wafer surface culture may be born of two modern developments:<\/span>\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">CAD programs that separate materials and finishes at the design phase, which may then <\/span>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">propel an \u2018wafer\u2019 assumption into the construction phase, and <\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">A relatively recent Interior Designer Sector, a development from a previous Painter and <\/span><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Decorator culture, <\/span><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">highly competent in colour tone and texture &#8211; in 2 dimensions and on interior surfaces.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The TCTT (Type Colour Tone Texture) priority in Interior stone design (see glossary of terms) has moved from bathrooms and kitchens to the lounge room, and then to the verandahs, and now the outdoor proper, including building facades<\/span>\r\n\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">4. Finish Model Language<\/span><\/strong>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The language of this model talks about areas of coverage, or finish.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">That is, the greatest amount of Wall or floor should be covered (finished) as beautifully, but also as thinly and as efficiently as possible.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">This model also tends to speak of \u2018products\u2019, rather than \u2018details\u2019.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">5. Perceived Economy<\/span><\/strong>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">One key factor driving the popularity of this \u2018finish\u2019 trend may not be aesthetic though.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">By slicing stone thinner and fixing the resulting dimensions on our walls and horizontal surfaces, we are also stepping into more accessible budget brackets.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The lighter weight of individual pieces means that they may be installed quickly at a much lower cost than traditional solid Stonemasonry. Tilers can lay many more square metres of tiles than a traditional stonemason can build a solid wall.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">A Turkish limestone delivered to Sydney in 30mm thicknesses can be bought and installed by a tiler at the fraction of the cost of 3-Dimensional local stone.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">So, a perceived budget advantage may be also be an impetus of the Finish Model as well as a result.<\/span>\r\n<h3><strong><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Stone as Finish &#8211; in Summary<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">In summary the contexts of the Finish \u2018explosion\u2019 are multiple.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">&#8211; \u00a0The rise of \u2018construction phasing\u2019 and the separate structure phase separate from the finish <\/span><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">phase in building culture. There has been sound, practical reasons for this development. Site <\/span><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">process simplicity being one of them. <\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">&#8211; \u00a0The opportunity and Diversity (See Glossary of Terms below) offered by a globalised supply <\/span><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">market . <\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">&#8211; \u00a0A general \u2018re-skilling\u2019 (and sometimes de-skilling) of the on-site stone labour force, and a <\/span><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">movement of the locus of craft effort from site to factory <\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">&#8211; \u00a0The push to \u2018economise\u2019 stone by slicing it up into decreased wafer dimensions. <\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">&#8211; \u00a0The preoccupations of the Supplier market here are similar to those in Interior Design with its its emphasis on the preoccupations of painting and decorating, namely:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Colour <\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Tone <\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Texture<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">A compulsion to simplify site safety by making building elements smaller, and processes more ergonomic. <\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The Aesthetic Outcome of the Stone as Finish Model<\/span><\/strong>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The cultural result of the Stone Finish industry is an unprecedented array of surface colour, tone and texture choices available to architects and designers, professional and otherwise.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The palette is awash with options.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Further there is an accelerated accessibility to these products.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">They are offered in ever thinner dimensions, for ever lower prices per square metre.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">This trend remains strong and has been so for 10-20 years.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Some believe that we have entered into a \u2018stone choice paradise\u2019, and have proceeded to specify, purchase and build with a vast variety of stone finishes.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Stones finishes are chosen with almost as much freedom as choices in render and paint.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Many assume, and will even argue, that because stone is a finish, then \u2018Finishing\u2019 is its only role. However, is everyone convinced?<\/span>\r\n<h3><strong><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Challenges for the \u2018Stone as Finish\u2019 Model<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">1. A Practical Matter &#8211; Tensile Stress<\/span><\/strong>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The Finish Model utilises decreased thicknesses and occasional \u2018feathers\u2019 to achieve its architectural intentions. Feathering examples include Mitred Corners, Birds Mouth Details, Copings mitred in Plan and Elevation.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">There is a strong argument about the use of stone mitres at all, due to the mitre\u2019s reliance on tensile material strength. <\/span><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">(See Strength in GOT below)<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">In short, stone, especially sedimentary stone like sandstone, is not well suited to applications that test tensile strength, such as external traffic areas likely to endure occasional impact.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The use of mitres in the crafting of laminated corner details in marble and granite interiors is less vulnerable than such use in external sandstone.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">To be fair, many Stone Finish Suppliers offer Quoin products as an alternative to the Mitre Detail. However the practice of Mitred details in external contexts is still widespread.<\/span>\r\n<blockquote><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">\u2018Never take a material through to infinity\u2019<\/span>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">J\u00f8rn Utzon, with reference to a crafted mitre, 1965.<\/span><\/blockquote>\r\n<h5 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #283b65;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-435 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_FEATHERED-MITRES-RISK.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"742\" height=\"553\" srcset=\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_FEATHERED-MITRES-RISK.png 742w, https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_FEATHERED-MITRES-RISK-300x224.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 742px) 100vw, 742px\" \/><\/span><\/h5>\r\n<h5 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">A risk faced by feathered mitres.<\/span><\/strong><\/h5>\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">2. An Architectural Question<\/span><\/strong>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Another aspect of the Finish Culture is extreme \u2018simplification\u2019. <\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The language of supply sales largely eschews structurally expressive elements.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Although many finish Suppliers now offer \u2018Quoin options). structurally expressive Lintels, Copings and Stair Treads are rare. <\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Structural Expression seems to be widely seen as an irrelevance to the finish market.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">3. Prevailing \u2018Language\u2019 of Stone<\/span><\/strong>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">A google search of \u2018stone wall products\u2019 with deliver, in the image bar, dozens of images of wildly divergent stone types and styles, divergent except for one aspect- the third dimension. The conversation is concentrated on Type, Colour, Tone and Texture.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">If there is an alternate approach to stone detailing, what might it be?<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #b88341;\">Stone as an Element of Structural Expression<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #283b65;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-452 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Stone-As-An-Element_2.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"750\" height=\"559\" srcset=\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Stone-As-An-Element_2.png 750w, https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Stone-As-An-Element_2-300x224.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Structure is one of stone\u2019s historical functions, especially in the days before concrete and brick.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">A current model of Structural Expression in stone draws belief, direction, and even inspiration, from the precedents found in traditional stone craft.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Structural Expression occurs when an individual element, (or group of elements) making up a coordinated detail, express a sense that it is, at least, \u2018holding itself up\u2019.<\/span>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Structure is most expressed when the element also supports other stone and non-stone elements.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Although structural expression draws precedent (and a significant skill-base) from historical traditions, it does not need to be confined to classical detail styles. <\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Modern minimalist forms may imaginatively accomodate structural expression in brief and craft execution.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The most obvious feature of structural expression is \u2018solidity\u2019, the inclusion of the Third Dimension (thickness) in element proportion.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">But other structurally expressive features include:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Generous Bond (overlap) between courses,<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Joint Arrangement (eg radiating joints in an arch)<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Interface details -where non structural elements \u2018give way\u2019 to structurally expressive <\/span><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">ones.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-446 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_SKETCH_IMG_5646-1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"750\" height=\"563\" srcset=\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_SKETCH_IMG_5646-1.png 750w, https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_SKETCH_IMG_5646-1-300x225.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Structural Expression requires that detail attention be given to:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Three Dimensional elements (notably thickness) <\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Dimensional Dexterity (that is a system of Customising Sizes and Shapes) &#8211; especially with <\/span><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">regard to classically dimensioned Quoins, Copings, Jambs, Lintels, Sills and Treads<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li>Gauging -joints require generous bond (overlap) to maintain structural integrity. Even if hiddenv<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">fixings are structurally sufficient, expressed bonds afford a visual sense of structure<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li>Proportion. Short quoins and Ultra thin Copings dilute structural expression.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Interface with Adjoining Elements. Allowing vertical masonry to \u2018pass through\u2019 rather than \u2018rest <span style=\"color: #283b65;\">on\u2019 finished floor lines is one important structurally expressive interface.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-447 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_SKETCH2.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"750\" height=\"563\" srcset=\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_SKETCH2.png 750w, https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_SKETCH2-300x225.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Stone structure is most vividly expressed at the architectural \u2018edges\u2019, Corners, Copings, Jambs, Lintels, Arches and Stair Treads.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The third dimension afforded by Solid Block Stock adds another dimension (literally) to detail options.<\/span>\r\n<h3><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Characteristics of Structurally Expressive Stone Elements<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">&#8211; Local Sourcing<\/span><\/strong>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The larger and therefore heavier dimensions of certain detail pieces in this model make ocean travel more expensive per m2 of facade product. <\/span><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">So stone choices here tend to be sourced closer to home.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">&#8211; Detail Dexterity<\/span><\/strong>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Again the larger, solid details employed here mean that the 5 key areas of structural dimension may be crafted with greater freedom and are therefore more able to comply with the demands of balanced proportion and gauging.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">To exemplify, a sculptor has greater 3-Dimensional freedom with a stone block than a stone tile. Similarly, the designer and the stone craftsman may express themselves more eloquently and harmoniously with the surrounding elements when they have \u2018one more dimension\u2019 in play.<\/span>\r\n<h3><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Craft Dexterity enhancing Architectural Eloquence<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">One of the core foundations that architecture is built upon is \u2018proportion\u2019. <\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Some \u2018structuralists\u2019 argue that factory processes limit dimensional options, thus rendering architectural control of element proportion to external influences.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Dimensional Dexterity allows the possibility of \u2018nuance\u2019 and increased architectural eloquence. <\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">By analogy, a wider vocabulary makes for richer narrative. A greater variety of notes makes for more engaging music.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">&#8211; Detail, not Product Focused<\/span><\/strong>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The Structural Expressive model emphasises a bespoke crafted detail, rather than purchased product.<\/span>\r\n<h3><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">A Structural Challenge to the Perceived Cost Assumption<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Because thin dimensions of stone are often less expensive to buy and build, it is assumed that all Finish options will cost less than Structurally expressive ones.<\/span>\r\n<blockquote><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Finish options generally do cost less than Structurally expressive ones.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">However there are counterpoints.<\/span><\/blockquote>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Where stone elements are structural they may supersede the need for hidden structure. This results in a cost saving on structure.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">This saving may be significant in the scenario of single span stone stair treads, for example.<\/span>\r\n<h5 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #283b65;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-450 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Stone-As-An-Element-1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"373\" srcset=\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Stone-As-An-Element-1.png 500w, https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Stone-As-An-Element-1-300x224.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/span><span style=\"color: #283b65;\"><span class=\"\" style=\"display:block;clear:both;height: 0px;margin-top: -10px;border-top-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;\"><\/span>Structural Stair Treads reduce the need for <\/span><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">(and cost of) concrete support structure<\/span><\/h5>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\"><span class=\"\" style=\"display:block;clear:both;height: 0px;padding-top: 20px;border-top-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;\"><\/span>There may also be an equity loss, especially in traditional contexts where \u2018economical\u2019 finishes erode the elegance and equity strength of the traditional craft embedded in existing elements.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Finally, there is the issue of the delivering below the demand threshold. Nothing is more expensive than a client paying good money for something beneath what they really want.<\/span>\r\n<h3><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Key Differences between the Structural Expression and Finish Models<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The two models described thus far are not directly comparable because they each come to architecture from different directions.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Structural Expressive details come from history. <\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Their priority is 3-D Detail dexterity.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Stone finish products come from a cutting factory, but notionally, they may have been conceptualised from an Interior Design culture.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Their priority is 2-D Surface beauty.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Is there a third way?<\/span>\r\n<h3><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">A Hybrid Model<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">There may be a Third Way- to deliver benefits from both models, whilst resolving details with ideal aesthetics.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">With some imagination on the part of suppliers, designers and craft persons, a Hybrid system of detailing may be possible, where ideal structurally expressive stone details may be inter-woven with the economies of a Stone as Finish model.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">A structurally expressive effect may be created by appropriately dimensioning key elements: <\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Quoin (the supply market has already made some progress here)<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Lintel<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Coping<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Jamb<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Sill<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li>Tread<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">In this scenario, the \u2018areas between\u2019 these edge details are treated as \u2018Stone as Finish\u2019, thus allowing the economy and the prevailing culture of Structure\/Finish installation to continue productively.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The key aspect of the Hybrid model is that stone does not pretend to be structural at these key edges. It IS structural.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The design challenge, and it requires attendance at the engineering phase, is the interface between stone and concrete (or other masonry) in the role of structure.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Some early inroads have been made in this area of Hybrid Stone\/ Structure detailing, but more could be done to make this option accessible to the market.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">At the set out phase, (such as the corners) stone is the structure.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Then the structural role is passed to the \u2018hidden\u2019 structure section (usually the Wall areas between corners, and below Copings). <\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Here the economy of the Finish applied to Structure model may make budget and schedule gains. (This information is available but not in this report)<\/span>\r\n<div title=\"Page 11\">\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #b88341;\">Comparing Models and Assumptions &#8211; a Summary<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Under the Stone as Finish model, the Finish supply market serves the first two aspects of detail, (Selection and Texture), with a massive spectrum of Product choice, choice defined by stone type, colour and texture.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Within the Structural Expression model, all 5 Detailing Criteria are perceived as an opportunity to express Detail architecturally.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">So whilst the \u2018Finish model\u2019 offers a vast array of Product choice, the \u2018Structural Expression model\u2019 offers a wider range of Detail choice, that is, a choice amongst articulate architectural details that take into account other criteria, such as dimension, gauging, proportion and ideal interface.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Which is the most ideal approach?<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">It begins with personal architectural belief.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Key Questions<\/span><\/strong>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">If considering a stone Product within the Stone as Finish Model, key questions may be:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Does the product range include structurally expressive Quoin, Jamb, Sill, Lintel, Coping, and Tread Details? (to the extent these elements are part of your project, and\/or part of your architectural assumption)<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">A stone style is only as architectural as the strength of its edge details. Are your edge details physically and architecturally strong?<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Does your chosen product create a sense of bespoke hand-craft rather than one of factory repetition?<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Are the dimensions of each stone piece of appropriate proportion to suit the architectural intentions of the walls, Paths, openings, and stairs, and that of your overarching design metaphor? (Crucial here often is the three dimensions expressed in the Coping Detail).<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">If considering a Structural Expressive or Hybrid Model key considerations are:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Have your structurally expressive stone details been considered at the structural design <\/span><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">phase?<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">If so, has the structure been built to respect that consideration? (Special attention is needed <\/span><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">here at corners, Wall heights, and in the gauging of stair structures.)<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Has your budget made allowance for the larger dimensions and the higher craft component involved in structural edge details?<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Have all opportunities for the economising of non-expressive elements been considered?\u2019<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #b88341;\">Conclusion\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Choices about stone run deeper than the concepts of \u2018finish\u2019 or \u2018product\u2019 and reach into the possibility of architectural compromise.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The choice of stone detail is may also be a choice of stone design model.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Stone choices begin with a fundamental question:<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Is stone an opportunity for a fully expressive, architectural detail? <\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Or, is it a structurally-neutral geological exhibit?<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #b88341;\">&#8216;God is in the detail\u2019 <\/span><\/h2>\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #283b65;\"><span class=\"\" style=\"display:block;clear:both;height: 0px;margin-top: -18px;border-top-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;\"><\/span><span style=\"color: #b88341;\">Ludwig Mies van der Rohe<\/span><\/span><\/h4>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Damian Cudmore studied architecture and construction at NSWIT in the late seventies.<span class=\"\" style=\"display:block;clear:both;height: 0px;margin-top: -10px;border-top-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;\"><\/span><\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">After turning his attention to masonry, he has been cutting, crafting, and now designing with sandstone.<span class=\"\" style=\"display:block;clear:both;height: 0px;margin-top: -10px;border-top-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;\"><\/span><\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">His design practice \u2018true stone design\u2019 works to advance sandstone aesthetics, and to advocate for structurally-expressive stone detailing, from traditional to modern forms, including the hybrid model described above.<span class=\"\" style=\"display:block;clear:both;height: 0px;margin-top: -10px;border-top-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;\"><\/span><\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Damian has no commercial interest with any quarry or stone supplier, and welcomes conversation with anyone looking to optimise stone detailing: <\/span><span style=\"color: #b88341;\"><a style=\"color: #b88341;\" href=\"mailto:damian@truestonedesign.com.au\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">damian@truestonedesign.com.au<\/a><\/span>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #b88341;\">Glossary of Terms<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Emotional Aesthetics (aka inner beauty)<\/span><\/strong>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">This is the notion that an element has not only a \u2018look\u2019, but also a \u2018feel\u2019.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Is a detail attractive because of how it physically \u2018looks\u2019 or how it \u2018feels\u2019 in the space, because it \u2018feels\u2019 \u2018fresh\u2019, or \u2018old\u2019, or \u2018primal\u2019?<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Do the dimensions of the chosen stone satisfy the overall metaphor and design brief?<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Does a stone surface finish ultimately satisfy the design intention?<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Is stone even necessary or desirable if it is likely to make trivial contribution to the overall metaphor?<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">For instance, painted brick may express architectural intentions more adequately, for even less cost than stone tiles.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Sometimes a crusty old brick might satisfy all criteria.<\/span>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><div class='yrm-content yrm-content-3 yrm-content-hide  ' id='yrm-HEsJB' data-id='3' data-show-status='false' data-after-action='' style=\"visibility: hidden;height: 0;\">\n\t\t\t<div id='yrm-inner-content-yrm-HEsJB' class='yrm-inner-content-wrapper yrm-cntent-3'>\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Criteria to consider in the Detailing of Architectural Stone<\/span><\/strong>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">There are 5 key aspects of detail possibility offered by architectural stone. These are:<\/span>\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Selection- (Colour Tone Strength Salt resistance)<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Texture<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Gauging and Proportion<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Structural Expression<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Relationship with Interface Elements<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Exterior Design<\/span><\/strong>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">This is that area of design that concerns itself with the external envelope of buildings, as well as that of garden areas and structural landscape.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Given the modern culture of designing Indoor\/Outdoor spaces, it could also include Covered BBQ areas, and Fireplaces in open plan Living areas.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\"><strong>Hybrid Structural Expression<\/strong><\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">In this model the role of structure is shared by both the Hidden Structure, and by selected structurally expressive stone elements, notably quoins, Copings, Lintels, Jambs, Sills and Treads.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\"><strong>Mark of the Hand Concept<\/strong><\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Signs of hand craft offer a unique attraction to many users of space. Structurally expressive elements crafted in bespoke workshops often offer opportunity to finish surfaces by hand.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\"><strong>Material Strength<\/strong><\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">A material may be strong in tension, such as timber or steel.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">And it may be strong in compression, such as brick and stone.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Modern reinforced concrete, when designed and crafted correctly is strong in both.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\"><strong>Mitre<\/strong><\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The practice of cutting a material at an angle, often used to create a stone Corner Detail.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\"><strong>Painter and Decorator Lineage<\/strong><\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The recent rise of CAD with its inherent separation of \u2018material\u2019 and \u2018surface\u2019 and the Designer Sector, which may be a development from the earlier Painter and Decorator culture, is highly competent in surface colour, tone and texture &#8211; in 2 dimensions.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Expanded outward from the \u2018private\u2019, interior elements, TCTT stone detailing has moved from bathrooms and kitchens out to the lounge room feature walls, and then verandahs, and finally the outdoor proper, including landscape walls and stairs and, most recently, building facades. <\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Its influence has moved from interior, private space to exterior space.<\/span>\r\n<div class=\"page\" title=\"Page 13\">\r\n<div class=\"section\">\r\n<div class=\"layoutArea\">\r\n<div class=\"column\">\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\"><strong>Possible Future Directions for the Stone Supply Market<\/strong><\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">&#8211; Structurally expressive product options<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">&#8211; Three dimensional blocks offered unfinished alongside finished products<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">&#8211; Hybrid Detail Products<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">To be fair to stone suppliers, there may not be many demanding Structurally Expressive Product Options as described here, but if suppliers do find demand for this in the future there are options they could consider.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">For example, developments in wire-saw technology may allow the production of 3-Dimensional Coping Product (U), Long L-Quoin, Long End Quoin (U), L-Jamb, L- Tread, L-Lintel.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\"><strong>Quoins<\/strong><\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">These are commonly known as Cornerstones. <\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">They are by definition three dimensional. <\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Depending on their particular shape and proportion, they will contribute to structural expression to varying degrees.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\"><strong>Short-Quoin<\/strong><\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The practice of economising on a Quoin Detail to the point that appropriate proportion and structural expression is diminished.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\"><strong>Solid Block Stock<\/strong><\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">A solid stone supply option offered by some suppliers. <\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">These three-dimensional pieces allow structurally expressive details to be crafted.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\"><strong>Structural Expression<\/strong><\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">5 Elements of Stone Detailing &#8211; way beyond Type, Colour and Tone the key aspects of stone detail are:<\/span>\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Selection (which includes type, colour and tone)<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Texture<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Gauging and Proportion<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Relationship with Interface Elements<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Interface with Adjoining elements<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">And STRUCTURAL EXPRESSION.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\"><strong>TCTT Assumption<\/strong><\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">This is an assumption that a stone product choice is 2-Dimensional only, and need only consider: <\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Type (limestone, marble, sandstone etc)<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Colour<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Tone<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"color: #283b65;\">Texture<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\"><strong>Two Dimensional Diversity<\/strong><\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #283b65;\">The finish stone supply market offers a large spectrum of stone choices, with respect to descriptors such as geological class (Igneous, Sedimentary or Metamorphic), types (ie Sandstone, granite, limestone, schist, slate, marble), colour, tone and texture.<\/span><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><div class='yrm-btn-wrapper yrm-btn-wrapper-3 yrm-more-button-wrapper  '\n\t\tdata-custom-more-class-name='' data-custom-less-class-name=''><span title='' data-less-title='' data-more-title='' class='yrm-toggle-expand  yrm-toggle-expand-3 ' data-rel='yrm-HEsJB' data-more='Read more' data-less='Less more'><span class='yrm-text-wrapper yrm-text-wrapper-custom-dimensions'><span class=\"yrm-button-text-3 yrm-button-text-span\">Read more<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/div>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<!-- \/wp:post-content -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The prevailing predilection for neat, cheap and pretty may be neglecting more spatially articulate choices.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":423,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[22],"tags":[16,18,19],"class_list":{"0":"post-422","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-true-stone-design","8":"tag-sandstone","9":"tag-stone-handcraft-2","10":"tag-stone-masonry"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>not just a pretty face - True Stone Design<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"not just a pretty face - True Stone Design\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"The prevailing predilection for neat, cheap and pretty may be neglecting more spatially articulate choices.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"True Stone Design\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2024-06-07T11:24:48+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2024-10-09T05:12:09+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_IMG_6649-1024x742.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1024\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"742\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"admin\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"admin\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"18 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"admin\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/#\/schema\/person\/1a3c5f43aca500de5b76383eced727cb\"},\"headline\":\"not just a pretty face\",\"datePublished\":\"2024-06-07T11:24:48+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-10-09T05:12:09+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422\"},\"wordCount\":3752,\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_IMG_6649.png\",\"keywords\":[\"#sandstone\",\"#stone handcraft\",\"#stone masonry\"],\"articleSection\":[\"true stone design\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-AU\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422\",\"name\":\"not just a pretty face - True Stone Design\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_IMG_6649.png\",\"datePublished\":\"2024-06-07T11:24:48+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-10-09T05:12:09+00:00\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/#\/schema\/person\/1a3c5f43aca500de5b76383eced727cb\"},\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-AU\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-AU\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_IMG_6649.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_IMG_6649.png\",\"width\":1700,\"height\":1232},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"not just a pretty face\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/\",\"name\":\"True Stone Design\",\"description\":\"\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-AU\"},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/#\/schema\/person\/1a3c5f43aca500de5b76383eced727cb\",\"name\":\"admin\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-AU\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/1dad1786364f5db7a268973c745647f7beedcb77ad3ce37f0afcb427bfc77574?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/1dad1786364f5db7a268973c745647f7beedcb77ad3ce37f0afcb427bfc77574?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/1dad1786364f5db7a268973c745647f7beedcb77ad3ce37f0afcb427bfc77574?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"admin\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\/\/truestone.au\"],\"url\":\"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?author=1\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"not just a pretty face - True Stone Design","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"not just a pretty face - True Stone Design","og_description":"The prevailing predilection for neat, cheap and pretty may be neglecting more spatially articulate choices.","og_url":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422","og_site_name":"True Stone Design","article_published_time":"2024-06-07T11:24:48+00:00","article_modified_time":"2024-10-09T05:12:09+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1024,"height":742,"url":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_IMG_6649-1024x742.png","type":"image\/png"}],"author":"admin","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"admin","Est. reading time":"18 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422"},"author":{"name":"admin","@id":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/#\/schema\/person\/1a3c5f43aca500de5b76383eced727cb"},"headline":"not just a pretty face","datePublished":"2024-06-07T11:24:48+00:00","dateModified":"2024-10-09T05:12:09+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422"},"wordCount":3752,"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_IMG_6649.png","keywords":["#sandstone","#stone handcraft","#stone masonry"],"articleSection":["true stone design"],"inLanguage":"en-AU"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422","url":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422","name":"not just a pretty face - True Stone Design","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_IMG_6649.png","datePublished":"2024-06-07T11:24:48+00:00","dateModified":"2024-10-09T05:12:09+00:00","author":{"@id":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/#\/schema\/person\/1a3c5f43aca500de5b76383eced727cb"},"breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-AU","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-AU","@id":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_IMG_6649.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BLOG_NOT-JUST-A-PRETTY-FACE_IMG_6649.png","width":1700,"height":1232},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?p=422#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"not just a pretty face"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/#website","url":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/","name":"True Stone Design","description":"","potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-AU"},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/#\/schema\/person\/1a3c5f43aca500de5b76383eced727cb","name":"admin","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-AU","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/1dad1786364f5db7a268973c745647f7beedcb77ad3ce37f0afcb427bfc77574?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/1dad1786364f5db7a268973c745647f7beedcb77ad3ce37f0afcb427bfc77574?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/1dad1786364f5db7a268973c745647f7beedcb77ad3ce37f0afcb427bfc77574?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"admin"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/truestone.au"],"url":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/?author=1"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/422","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=422"}],"version-history":[{"count":44,"href":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/422\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2437,"href":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/422\/revisions\/2437"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/423"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=422"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=422"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/truestonedesign.com.au\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=422"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}