About 10 years ago, former Stone World editor, Michael Reis, traveled to Carson City, NV, to visit James Donaire of Perfection Connection Marble & Granite, Inc. At that time, Donaire faced a lot of competition in the market, as he specialized primarily in middle- to high-end residential fabrication, with a very small focus on the commercial market.

Is quartz still rising in popularity? Are miters still a favorite? Is natural stone being used anywhere else but countertops? Over the years, trends seemed to be somewhat stagnate. But some new design trends are becoming apparent.

Natural stone was an essential component of a residential design in Bernardsville, NJ, to capture the organic feel of the home’s woodsy surroundings. The design team from Wayne, NJ-based JR Frank Design LLC strongly desired to connect the expansive residence with nature.

Natural stone is one of the oldest, and certainly the most time-tested, of building materials known to man. Its beauty, durability, long life cycle and low-maintenance qualities make it the choice of many architects for commercial and institutional applications.

Located in Marsala in the Province of Trapani, Italy, architects Piero Laudicina and Maurizio Giammarino selected Margraf marble for the interior and exterior design throughout the private villa. The material was employed in a way that brings a unique aesthetic to the palatial residence.

In recent years, Continental Cut Stone has expanded its capacity while working to address environmental challenges. The company, located in Florence, TX, has added several fabrication machines to its production area, including a CNC, to increase efficiencies.

Stone World spoke with Laura Grandlienard of Rockin’ teriors in Raleigh, NC, about challenges she and her company face while installing stone

The Pinnacle Awards competition is open to natural stone professionals from around the world and are presented to projects whose beauty, creativity, ingenuity and craftsmanship exemplify professional mastery in the use of natural stone in commercial and residential applications.

During the many years that I have been with Stone World I have sat in on more fabricator forums, workshops and other industry events where ideas and experiences are discussed than I can count.