Using stone (and I mean rugged natural outdoor stone) to enhance the interior of a home is one of those things that not everyone is willing to do simply because of the expense. And, no doubt it can be pricey. But, as they say – OMG! – what a difference a dollop of stone can make. It creates such a unique personality and character to a space and adds instant warmth to any room . This home is a Whitestone Model Home in San Antonio I designed and decorated with my friend and fellow designer, Diane, for a local design studio.
We wanted the Hill Country vibe so common in San Antonio and chose to use as much natural stone as we were given the thumbs up by the builder to do. Notice the warmth in this kitchen just by virtue of the stone. Cool, huh?
The stone is also placed on the wall behind the cabinets, and used on the back splash down to the granite countertop. This combination of granite, the natural stone and the staggered brick pattern in the slate floor creates a kitchen that is full of charm and interest.
This little area above is a coffee bar with the granite counter top and distressed cabinets in a black finish for even more texture. Isn’t it cute?
We bordered this entrance to the kitchen with hardwood encasing the slate tile. We had the tile placed at a 45 degree angle to add a twist in the detail. Notice the slate pattern changes to the brick pattern in the kitchen. The slate floor compliments all the natural stone beautifully.
This cool stone doorway is off the dining room. I love the way the arch here mimic’s the arch behind it leading into the kitchen and allows just a peek at the stone in the kitchen as well.
In the dining room we designed a stone wall with a wine shelf to fit just inside the stone casing. This gives the dining room a “stately” wine cellar feel which is, of course what we were shooting for. PS: We had fun collecting all the wine bottles for display! (They had to be empty in order to leave them here – but, no worries – they were “emptied” over an extended period of time – and some were given to us by friends and restaurants.)
So if you are in the market for a new home or in the throws of planning a remodel consider the use of stone. Yes, it does cost you a penny or two (well, okay, more than that), but it’s one of those details that just can’t be beat. When compiling your list of priorities for your home, maybe stone can replace some other detail you can live without. It’s worth checking into and pricing out. I have found that so often it’s the things you don’t do that were on the “wish list” verses the things you opt to do that causes more regrets. Is it your dream home? Is it your once in a lifetime remodel? Think it through……you might just find you can swing it after all. And, personally, I think you will be very glad you did.
These are beautiful pictures. For more ideas, you should check out my employer, McGraw-Hill. They have a list of top quality manufacturers and suppliers of exterior stone. You should see all the designs and styles you could choose from. It’s amazing.
Great tip! Thanks so much, Amy!