granite – Archstone

Marble Quarrying in Italian Alps: Video

June 7, 2016/0 Comments/in Uncategorized /by keatings

We found this amazing short video by Yuri Ancarani of an artistic look inside a marble quarry in the Italian Alps. To see the inner mechanics and workings of the quarry is super informative and reminds us of the sheer hard work and processes it takes to get these amazing natural stone slabs all around the world. Seeing marble in its basic, natural state is really striking. Watching this makes us feel lucky that we can offer and share these pieces of nature in New Zealand and admire their beauty in our factory from half way around the world.

“Marble quarries are places so unbelievable and striking, they almost feel like they are big theaters or sets,” says Yuri Ancarani, the filmmaker behind today’s excerpt from the documentary, Il Capo (The Chief), which follows a quarry boss as he guides his men through the extraction process, using a silent language of gesture and sign.

Ancarani was captivated by the otherworldly landscapes of the quarry. He spent nearly a year filming on Monte Bettolgi, in the Carrara region of the Apuan Alps, in Northwest Italy, eventually deciding to focus his film on the hypnotic, and rather dramatic moment when the monumental marble blocks are freed from the mountainside, and fall to the ground with an earth-shattering thud.

Ceramic and Granite Tiles from Cerdomus Imitates Wooden Panels!

May 29, 2016/0 Comments/in Design /by keatings

We came across this article showcasing these stunning granite and ceramic floor tiles, which emulate wood panels. We thought it was worth sharing!

These granite tiles from Italian company Cerdomus are unusual, modern and effortlessly beautiful. Although made of ceramic-granite, the tiles mimic gorgeous wood flooring. Their unique appearance brings dynamic contrasts into modern interior design, while offering practical and convenient flooring. Wood-like floor tiles are a timeless choice that turn living spaces into luxurious and unique rooms, filled with comfort, warmth and timeless elegance.

The stone medium ensures durability and practicality – granite is more robust than a marble or man made stone. These modern floor tiles are excellent for creating original interior design and add a contemporary touch to home decorating. These stunning floor tiles are suitable for decorating almost all home interiors, from bathrooms, laundry rooms and entryways to kitchens and living rooms.

The floor tiles are made of ceramic-granite, durable and attractive, encouraging to experiment and create fresh and sophisticated floor decor. The ceramic granite floor tiles are designed for few stylish collections, ideal for different interior design and home decorating styles, from country home style to classic, contemporary and eco style. Numerous tile colour shades reflect natural wood yellowish to bleached white and brown colours of natural wood.

Monochromatic colour schemes make it easy to create a sleek and modern design for your floor decoration. If you’re after something a little more out there, the tiles are also offered in more vibrant colour combinations.

All collections from Cerdomus are 100% original, blending nature inspired themes with contemporary home decorating material.

Source: stevewilliamskitchens.co.uk

10 Unique Stone Applications

May 28, 2016/0 Comments/in Design /by keatings

Granite, marble, quartz and quartzite can be used for much more than benchtops. Natural stone, wherever put in the home creates a peaceful yet strong environment for you and your loved ones. Both Natural stones and man-made quartz surfaces can be used in various applications, from wall to floor, splash back, a chopping board or coaster.

If budget is a concern, opt for a smaller item and still experience the luxuries that granite, marble and quartz can bring to your special space.

Check out the examples below:

Caring For Your Granite Benchtop

May 28, 2016/0 Comments/in Kitchens, Uncategorized /by keatings

One of the major perks of having granite surfaces in your home, is that they require very little maintenance. Granite is one of the hardest minerals on earth, so is by nature extremely strong and durable. It is also heat and stain resistant. This doesn’t mean it doesn’t need a little bit of loving, with a good routine using basic equipment and product, your granite benchtop will serve you well for many years. The Granite Benchtop Company recommends this fail-safe method for caring for your granite benchtop, to make sure it stays looking as good as the day it was installed.

The method we advise to our clients here at GBC is really basic – a 30:70 mix of Methylated Spirits and water. Inexpensive and easy!

First you’ll need to do a surface clean of the benchtop to remove any loose grime. You can do this simply with a paper towel.
Once the surface is clear, mix together a 30:70 mix of Methylated Spirits and water.
Apply the solution to a cloth and wipe down the stone areas.
Once your done, use a paper towel to pat the excess water off of the surface.
To finish, we highly recommend using a micro-fibre cloth to remove any excess dust or left over solution. This will ensure your benchtop is clean, safe for use and super shiny!

If you have any questions regarding caring for your benchtop you can contact us.

*** It’s important to watch what you use on the granite, over time some harsh acidic kitchen chemicals can take their toll on the surface. Chemicals with acidic properties are the one thing that can corrode the sealing of granite, so do not use any product using vinegar or lemon. ***

*** Soap or detergent is okay to use periodically, however long term use will result in a build up on the surface***

Granites For White Kitchen Cabinetry

May 11, 2016/0 Comments/in Design, Kitchens /by keatings

White cabinetry is a age-old choice for any kitchen, whether you’re building or renovating your home interior. Due to the neutrality of white cabinets, choosing a benchtop colour can be overwhelming as almost anything goes! You can pick something that compliments the colours of your appliances or surrounding furniture, a artistic and bold statement piece, or simply choose a gorgeous white granite or marble for a classy but understated look.

The good news is, with white kitchen cabinets, the world really is your oyster. You can choose white granite, marble or quartz, black, gold,
red, green blue or even something a multi-coloured and out of the ordinary. Making the choice is the hard part! There are lots of things to consider to ensure you get the kitchen result of your dreams.

Granite is a natural stone, ensuring your home will harness a piece of wild nature to provide the perfect environment your looking for. Whether that be providing a warm and nurturing place to raise your family, catering for a large crowd or entertaining great friends with cheese, wine and good conversation.

Check out these images below of various granite benchtop colors matched with white cabinets and get inspired.

This could kick off the next step in your kitchen design plans and get you closer to the kitchen you deserve.

As you can see, any colour of this beautiful stone will compliment white cabinetry. It’s really up to your personality and vibe to pick something that reflects you.

As a product, granite has stood the test of time. It’s proven that is does not go out of style. It is extremely beautiful, while remaining one of the most hardest minerals on earth, resilient to heat, scratches and stains. It’s exceptionally easy to clean – making it low maintenance. Why would you not choose this extraordinary stone to grace your home?

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