Back to nature

There is one landscaping material that transcends architectural styles. Natural schist helps to soften the lines of a square-edged contemporary house, yet it is also right at home in more traditional settings.

But although schist walls make a solid, permanent design statement, they don't need to weigh heavily on your finances. Cerastone Grey Edgestone schist ES60 from Stutex Stone, which features in this landscape project, is one of many stone finishes that offer a cost-effective alternative to natural stone.

Director Lorraine Goudie says Stutex Stone's manufactured stone profiles have been designed to replicate New Zealand's regional stone, and feature intricate surface textures that are hard to distinguish from natural stone.

"The veneers achieve a natural stone appearance without the usual associated cost, which makes them ideal for cladding as well as landscaping," she says.

"And because Stutex Stone designs are just one-third the weight of natural stone, they can be installed over standard foundations without the need for additional structural bracing. The light weight also means installation is fast and efficient, providing further cost savings."

Stutex Stone has distributors nationwide. For more information, contact Stutex Stone, 8/6 Westgate Dr, Westgate, Auckland, freephone 0800 788 839, or (09) 832 8300. Email: stutexstone@xtra.co.nz. Website: www.stutexstone.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas