In character

Country homes are often designed to blend in with the surrounding environment, and it's the choice of materials that determines the success of such an approach.

For this project, the designer introduced stone accents and tanalised timber beams to re-create a traditional farmhouse look. A blend of Edgestone E77 Kiwi and E60 Dark Grey schist from Stutex Stone's Cerastone range provides a distinctive textural contrast to the home's smooth plastered walls. Pillars at the entrance to the property and a low wall also feature Edgestone, ensuring there is visual continuity.

In addition, the Edgestone chimney features a fireplace on both the exterior and interior, which provides a visual connection between the inside and the outdoor living area.

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," she says. "This makes it a cost-effective option for both cladding and landscaping."

Goudie says because Stutex Stone veneers 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.

The Cerastone range includes sill and hearth stones, and cap stones for walls and pillars.

Stutex Stone has distributors nationwide. For more details, 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