For the complete renovation of her mid-19th Century home in Westport, Connecticut, actress, entrepreneur and lifestyle blogger Eva Amurri wanted to stay true to its simple New England roots — both inside and out. So, just as the mom of three retained most of the original doors and hardware inside the home to blend old and new elements, the hardscape design incorporated natural stone details using granite that was quarried nearby, which seamlessly blends into the historic neighborhood’s landscape.
Connecticut Hardscape Project Uses Granite to Reflect Home’s New England Roots
Topics: Granite, Patios, New England, Hardscape
Historic Connecticut Home Renovation Blends Old and New with Local Granite
From the moment she saw the historic Greek Revival home, built in the mid-1800s and set on an acre of property in charming Westport, Connecticut, actress, entrepreneur and lifestyle blogger Eva Amurri could see the potential. “We loved it from the second we saw it,” explained the mom of two young children with a third on the way, “but felt like its space was not utilized well and it lacked the grandness it deserved, given its historic location in town.
Topics: Granite, Fireplaces, Patios, Outdoor living, New England, Woodbury Gray
8 Essentials to Increase the Livability of Your Outdoor Retreat
When it comes to designing the perfect outdoor retreat, few factors are more important than livability. A balance of comfort, warmth and functionality can make a step into your backyard feel like the start of a vacation.
Topics: Patios, Outdoor living, outdoor kitchens, Hardscape
Luxe Pool and Spa Designs Featuring Granite and Bluestone
A luxe pool and spa in your backyard can take relaxation and recreation to another level. There are so many designs to choose from – infinity edge, perimeter overflow, freeform, geometric, kidney shaped or classic rectangular. But only certain hardscape materials will give a resort-style poolscape that high-end look and unsurpassed quality. With granite and natural stone, you can create a luxurious poolside oasis that will last for generations.
The Backyard Retreat: Expand Your Living Space Outdoors with Granite and Natural Stone
Bringing the outside in and the inside out has been a key home trend in recent years. Greenery, neutral colors and natural stone featured inside the home bring about calmness, serenity and a sense of connection to the beauty beyond its doors.. And, at the same time, outdoor structures, such as fireplaces, outdoor kitchens and pergolas, can transform your backyard into what feels like an extension of the home’s interior. With durable stone features styled by Swenson Granite Works, as well as stylish furniture, comfortable fabrics, outdoor appliances, you can create a functional outdoor space perfect for both a personal retreat and space for entertaining.
Topics: Granite, Fireplaces, Patios, Outdoor living, Staycation, fire pit
6 Things to Consider When Choosing The Stone That Naturally Fits Your Patio Design
When warm weather approaches, it’s time to leave the living room couch behind and get out to your favorite backyard spot. Whether it’s to kick back under the sun, entertain guests or dine alfresco, the patio is where it all should happen, so why not make it perfect in every way? The right look, feel, design, size and location all play a part, but most importantly, it all starts with the right hardscape material.
Topics: Granite, Patios, Outdoor living, Bluestone, flagstone
A New England Minimalist Landscape Uses Classic Materials to Connect with Nature
Photography by John McCarthy
In Andover, Massachusetts overlooking the Fish Brook Wetlands sits a custom-built contemporary home that connects the interior, landscaping and natural environment in the most intriguing ways. Using classic New England materials, including granite steps, pavers and pool coping from Swenson Granite Works, Andover Landscape designed a contemporary minimalist landscape for this unique residence surrounded by traditional Cape and Colonial homes.
Topics: Patios, granite steps, contemporary, minimalist, walkways
Soak Up Every Lakeside Moment: 5 Ways to Enhance Your Lake House
Vacation time is precious time. You want to maximize every moment at your lakeside retreat, and with a carefully crafted natural stone exterior it starts with the sigh of relief as you pull into the driveway.
Topics: Patios, Outdoor living, Vacation home, Bluestone
Beyond the Grill: Create a Year Round Outdoor Living Space
When the weather is warm and you’ve got guests to entertain, ditch the dining room table. Conversation is always better around a fire pit while devouring s’mores, or on a patio gazing at the stars while sipping a glass of wine.
Topics: Fireplaces, Patios, Outdoor living, Benches, Bluestone