WHICH STACKSTONE WALL CLADDING IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Stackstone (otherwise referred to as stack stone or stacked stone) is made up of small pieces of non-uniform stone which can be be bonded together laterally using resin. It offers a unique approach to wall cladding, and an individual finish for landscaped areas, hotel lobbies, shop fronts and inside the home. Stackstone is installed in modules similar to a tile, but offer a three-dimensional veneer that brings warmth, texture and a touch of drama. Installation is easy, with pieces being simply “glued” to a wall with adhesive in chequerboard or brick bond patterns. The finished product is a wall with hard-to-see joints and an architectural facade.

Stackstone can be used in a number of places and, depending on the wall’s environment, different materials work better for certain projects. Quartzite and slate are ideal for wet areas, such as around the pool or an outside feature wall or water feature. Quartzite and slate are naturally water resistant and also require very little maintenance. Quartzite is highly stain resistant and slate hides dirt perfectly.

In outdoor alfresco settings, stackstone is glamourous and builds character to a space. Teamed with tropical landscaping, a stackstone water feature makes an incredible feature that will mesmerise your BBQ guests.

For instant curb appeal, a stackstone exterior wall breaks up the monotony of a brick or rendered home and can bring a touch of colour and texture that’s appealing to the eye.  Dry stackstone retaining walls have been used for centuries and are common in Europe and the U.K. Often used as a boundary or barrier, they can also be used as a casual sitting surface.

When using stackstone wall cladding in the home, there are a number of ways to incorporate it. One typical way is a fireplace, where granite and slate excel with their heat-resistant qualities. Granite has the added bonus of being scratch-resistant and extremely durable, while slate gives a sophisticated finish to create an instant wow. Teamed with a reclaimed timber mantel, the natural stone gives an earthy warmth that’s perfect for keeping cosy in the living room.

Another popular room for stackstone is the bathroom, where an accent wall can bring a richness through the natural stone. A dark tone combined with exotic plants will leave you with a bathroom that’s worthy of a magazine cover.  Another option is to flank the vanity mirror, giving the appearance of elegant stone columns.

Wherever you end up using stackstone, here are a few tips to follow to maximise its effect:

• Use stackstone strategically and in moderation. Stack stone makes a big impact, and more often than not less is more. Too much stackstone in a small space will make a room feel heavy.
• Like any material or finish, select a colour and texture that will work well with the surroundings. Natural stone comes in all shapes and colours, and finding the right stone will help to compliment your home or garden space. Bluestone offers dark, rich and elegant colours, while limestone offers light subtlety and travertine gives a rustic effect that’s stylish and tasteful.

Always work from one corner of your wall and then up and over. Using this method will prevent you from having to constantly custom cut and fit new pieces into the wall as you go. You can mark your rows using a chalk line.