''The rename signifies a change in demand from designers and homeowners for a handcrafted look and feel,'' said Len Browning, Oldcastle Technical Advisor.

Cordova Stone can be cut and shaped in the field, needs little maintenance beyond cleaning with a standard commercial-grade cleaning agent, and is long-lasting. Manufactured with a high-performance water repellent admixture, these masonry units repel moisture, resist mold and offer efflorescent stain resistance.

''The new name is reminiscent of walking the streets of a classic European city,'' Browning said.