Every design professional in the back of his mind understands the necessity of reconciling aesthetic appeal with functionality, recognizes the complexity of each project, and perceives the limitations of the contractor that must construct the finished design. Yet, imagine this-- for once, you could design a hardscape scheme and get as wild as you wanted, incorporating colors, designs, logos, patterns or any type of artistic drawing into your work. That dream is a reality for many designers-- happening all across North America and the world.

Who creates these magical art forms in stone? A special breed of artisans practice their unique talents in stone by combining superior skills in layout, color perception, design, shape integration, installation execution, and total project vision.

The formula needed to accomplish these unique forms of stone art requires somewhat of a team effort. You need to find that Special Stone Artisan, understand that the individual pieces of art are not inexpensive, and therefore the ultimate commissioner must truly appreciate the difficulty of these creations. Finally, the artisan also needs the cooperation of a very qualified manufacturer who is willing and able to produce very specific stone colors, textures and shapes as needed.

When this "magic formula" is used, the finished pieces of art are limitless. You will find that designs can be created by using different colored stones, shapes and laying patterns throughout the entire field. This methodology can be utilized with all types of hardscape products. An interesting addition to Artisan Stone Artwork is the integration of mazes into the designs; this inventive addition has also enjoyed great acceptance in Europe and is rapidly becoming popular in North America also.

Probably the most labor-intensive and difficult form of stone artwork-- the actual cutting of perfectly-matched male and female contrasting colored pieces-- produces completely smooth lines and applications. The finished stone artwork is so precise that when viewed, it almost appears to have been painted.

Hardscape Artisans should be complemented and acknowledged for their development and promotion of a truly beautiful artform.

Now that you know the formula, search for that Special Stone Artisan and get creative!

Landscape Architects who have any stone artwork projects that you would like to share with our readers may send information and illustrations to "Hardscape Specialist" at LASN. Look for our July 1997 "Neighborhoods" Issue where we explore the exciting trends in paving materials. LASN

***LASN publishes exclusive material only. If you are going to reproduce any article, you must cite the publication volume and month, which are provided on the heading of each article. Back issues of magazines and reprints of individual articles with complete graphics may be available by calling the LASN Editorial Staff at 714-979-5276 for availability and pricing.