Alfresco living

New Zealand's temperate climate means most of us can enjoy an outdoor lifestyle almost all year round. But there's little doubt the more attractive your outdoor living area, the more you will use it for relaxing and entertaining.

The owners of this home introduced a natural, country feel to their pool setting by incorporating a Grey Edgestone fireplace and walls.

This composite stone, from Stutex Stone's Cerastone range, replicates the look and texture of South Island schist. However, its light weight makes it a cost-effective alternative to real stone, says Stutex Stone director Lorraine Goudie.

"This also makes it easy to install, and suitable for chimneys, high walls and two-storey buildings," she says.

Both Cerastone and Cultured Stone® can be used effectively in a variety of landscape applications. The rustic texture replicates the look and feel of New Zealand's regional stones, creating maximum impact in natural settings.

"But they also work in a more urban environment, where selected stone accents can enhance garden walls, terracing and planters," Goudie says. "You can even choose products that reflect the textures and hues of the local stone in your district."

More than 20 textured designs are available from Stutex Stone, ranging from schist looks to river rocks, mountain and drift stones. All of these decorative overlays can be installed quickly over a weathertight substrate.

Cerastone and Cultured Stone can also be used inside the home to create a feature wall or fireplace, for example. The composite nature of the stone provides plenty of design flexibility. This is also an effective way to create continuity between indoors and out.

To reassure homeowners, both stone types come with a 30-year warranty.

For more details, contact Stutex Stone, 8/6 Westgate Dr, Westgate, Auckland 1008, freephone 0800 788 839 or phone (09) 832 8300. Email: stutexstone@xtra.co.nz, website: www.stutexstone.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas