Last updated 1 month ago
In our latest blogs, we’ve looked at modern stone columns and the history of stone carving. You can find additional information on these topics with the informative resources below.
- You can learn more about the different orders and columns of classic architecture with this article from The Foundation for Hellenic Culture.
- For tips on designing a porch with columns, take a look at this slideshow from Southern Living.
- GuideToColumns.com provides additional information on different types of columns.
- Today, stone columns are used in neoclassical home designs. You can learn more about the neoclassical style with this guide from HGTV’s Front Door.
To learn more about the stone products we provide for homes in the Dallas area, call Holland Marble today at (888) 452-6515.
Last updated 1 month ago
The classical architecture of the Romans and Greeks was characterized by the use of columns. While different column designs were associated with specific periods, each column served the purpose of supporting a stunning building while enhancing that building’s design. Today, it is possible to add a touch of classical elegance to your home through the use of modern stone columns.
Classical Columns
Stone columns have been utilized for thousands of years because they are ideal for supporting walls and buildings against lateral forces from wind and earthquakes. Several ancient cultures, including Egyptians, Persians, and Greeks, incorporated stone columns into the architecture of their large buildings. Each classical column was topped with a capital, or a broadened area that increases a column’s stability. The ancient Greeks developed the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian architectural orders with specific column designs. The Romans expanded the designs of the Greeks, adding the Tuscan and Composite orders. Each order of column can be distinguished by the appearance of the column’s body and the design of the column’s capital.
Modern Designs
Today, modern limestone columns which echo the style of classical columns are available. You can choose to have the capital designs used in ancient columns reproduced for your stone columns, or choose a simpler, more modern design. There are a number of interior areas where stone columns function well, such as Old World-style master bathrooms and stately living rooms. You can also utilize stone columns on the outside of your home to echo the temples and meeting halls of classical civilizations. No matter what style you choose, adding stone columns to the interior or exterior of your home will add elegance your design.
At Holland Marble, we utilize advanced, modern technology to create modern limestone columns with classical appeal. To learn more about the stone columns we can create for your Dallas home, call Holland Marble today at (888) 452-6515.
Last updated 1 month ago
For thousands of years, humans have been carving stone to create tools, art, and shelters. Stone carving has been utilized in a variety of ways by different cultures throughout time, and continues to be used today. Let’s take a closer look at the history of stone carving.
Prehistoric Stone Carving
Evidence exists today of stone carving that occurred before recorded history. Some stone carvings, such as those knapped out of flint or obsidian, were used as tools and weapons. Other carvings, such as the Venus figurines from the Upper Paleolithic period that have been found throughout Europe, appear to have been simply ornamental. The oldest known pieces of representational artwork were carved from stone in this period.
Classical Stone Carving
Stone carving became more elaborate during the classical period. Several ancient civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians, created life-like sculptures out of a variety of stones. These cultures also utilized carved stone to build complex structures. The stone columns created by the ancient Greeks and Romans served both practical and aesthetic purposes, supporting buildings with elaborately carved capitals. The stone carving traditions established by the classical civilizations were echoed by artists during the European Renaissance.
Modern Stone Carving
Today, stone carving is accomplished using a variety of methods for both artistic and practical purposes. Some stone carvers choose to recreate the works of their predecessors, choosing to use simple tools to cut architectural carvings or sculpt statues. Other modern stone workers utilize technological innovations, including computer controlled machines, to create innovative pieces and precise replicas of classic details and artwork. Stone columns continue to be used in modern and neoclassical architecture, infusing classical style into fresh designs.
Whether you are interested in stone columns for your porch or high-quality stone countertops for your kitchen, the experts at Holland Marble can help. To learn about the stone products that we offer, call Holland Marble today at (888) 452-6515.
Last updated 2 months ago
Browse through these pages to explore the rich history of stone carving and how it has evolved today into beautiful architectural accents and structures, as well as the benefits of having a unique carved fireplace in your home’s hearth. Contact Holland Marble in Dallas at (888) 452-6515 for further information.
- View this slideshow from HGTV.com to explore many beautiful carved fireplaces and see what visual and sensual impact they have.
- Check out this page from ChicagoHistory.org to explore the historical significance of stonecutting and quarrying..
- Take a look at the ancient art of stone carving as represented by the Aztec stone sculptures on the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s website.
- Visit HowStuffWorks.com to get an idea of how granite countertops should be sealed for their protection and longevity.
Last updated 2 months ago
In centuries past, artisan stone carvers had to separate pieces of marble, granite, and other stones by hand. The process was tedious, yet produced beautiful pieces of stonework, from sculptures to building materials, with unique character. Today’s marble carving techniques are much more efficient and allow a greater degree of refinement in the finished product for truly timeless beauty.
Evolution of Stonecutting
In ancient times, stone was quarried by hand using simple tools, careful calculations, and hard work. Today’s quarries use diamond-edged saws and water to cut blocks of stone from large deposits. Diamond is among the hardest materials available to use. The material is ideal for cutting stone, while water is used to keep the stone from cracking and reduce dust during a cut. On a smaller scale, a stone slab is also cut from its main block with the same methods. When modern stonecutters finish edges and add designs, tools of similar designs are also used.
Modern Stone Carving
Today, architectural stone, used in columns, fireplaces, and other building components and accents, is first cut using Computer Numeric Control (CNC) tools like bridge saws, axis mills, and lathes.
These types of equipment offer precise control and the ability to mill stone in complex designs. Stone-clad columns and staircases require a careful touch if elegant designs are to be perfectly carved. With today’s high-tech equipment, marble carvings can be shaped into amazing forms that twist and turn for a breathtaking aesthetic in homes and buildings.
Holland Marble provides custom stone and marble carving. We create architectural stone including columns and staircases, as well as stunning carved fireplaces for a one-of-a-kind hearth. Contact us at (888) 452-6515 or visit our Holland Marble website for more information.
