M y parents started this company in 1964. At the time, they had a 125-acre farm on which they raised pigs, and my father also worked for a stone company. One day, my mom got a call from a local landscaper looking to buy a load of flagstone—not through the company Pa worked for but directly through him. Buechel Stone was born. I was six years old at the time, but we kids were raised to do our part. So even in the early years, you could find me in the quarry helping out where I could.
By 1977, my parents were ready to think about the future. Though far from old, they had seen others hold on to their businesses too long. So they decided to sell half the business to their sons—with four stipulations. All three of us had to buy in together, be equal partners, agree to stay for five years and pay our parents promptly each month. At the time, I was only 19 and had little idea what I wanted to do with my life, but I agreed. Our family business was becoming a multi-generational legacy.
My five-year commitment grew into five decades. Along the way, my brother Tim and I bought out our oldest brother’s share. We also brought in fresh voices with valuable perspectives, while remaining loyal to those who stuck with us. Our longest-tenured employee recently retired after over 45 years with the company. But whether hiring someone for a leadership role or to sweep the floors, we have always looked to work with people of personal integrity.
Buechel Stone has seen so much growth as we went from selling in a 50-mile radius to supplying stone to projects nationwide. We’ve aimed to provide architects the best resources to spec projects and make sure all our customers are satisfied. As the company celebrates 60 years and I prepare to retire, it makes me proud and happy to see the business staying in the family—with Tim’s son Mike already representing the third generation as I get ready to sell my shares to my children Shaun and Dominique. We’ve put a great team together that is focused on accomplishing big, audacious goals, and I’m excited to see where the company will go.
Scott Buechel
Contents
Looking to the nation’s spectacular natural wonders to spark your next reinvention.
STONE JOURNAL
ISSUE 1
Mill Creek Paving steps with distressed thermalled edges.
Editor in Chief
LouAnn Berglund
Managing Editor
Kristin Armitage
Photography Manager
Mandy Yohnk
Contributing Writer
Paul Hagen
Design Editor
Deb Martin
Creative Direction
Maiarelli Studio
Design Partner
aspire design and Home
Publishing Partner
Amplify
Mike Buechel
President & CEO
From our hands to yours; the story behind STONE JOURNAL
W elcome to the inaugural issue of STONE JOURNAL, where natural stone meets inspired design. While other publications showcase materials or aesthetics, STONE JOURNAL connects the two, exploring how natural stone transforms ideas into timeless realities. This isn’t just about product selection—it’s a celebration of craftsmanship and the artistry that brings stone to life.
For over 60 years, Buechel Stone has been at the forefront of the natural stone industry, shaping projects that elevate spaces beyond expectation. With STONE JOURNAL, we’re pulling back the curtain to share our story and the unique role dimensional stone plays in creating lasting beauty. Often seen as a commodity, dimensional stone is far more—it’s a collaboration between the material, the mason, and the designer. Each piece is cut and shaped by skilled hands, then entrusted to experts to bring visions to life.
Unlike stone slabs, where selections are made firsthand, dimensional stone requires trust. It’s a process that blends planning, anticipation, and the thrill of seeing the finished masterpiece—an experience as personal and singular as the material itself. To ensure every project reflects this seamless harmony, we created the WORRY-FREE CLIENT EXPERIENCE™, designed to make working with Buechel as effortless as it is inspiring.
Inside STONE JOURNAL, we take you coast to coast to explore four standout projects, from the refined elegance of the East Coast to bold, rustic Texas, timeless Wisconsin, and the innovative designs of the West Coast. In our FACETS section, we highlight unique uses of stone, exceptional products, and the creative minds behind them. Finally, we pay tribute to the ultimate designer: Mother Nature, whose artistry inspires every building stone, boulder, and architectural stone detail we produce.
Thank you for exploring STONE JOURNAL, a window into how Buechel Stone elevates natural stone and design to create something unforgettable. If you’ve completed a project using Buechel Stone, we’d love to consider it for a future issue. Reach out to our marketing team and share your story.
Welcome to STONE JOURNAL, where craftsmanship, design, and the timeless beauty of stone come together.
FACETS
Facets1
Step Lively
For this home in West Vancouver, Paul Sangha Creative shaped an outdoor space that delivers a sense of getting away from it all in the heart of the city. Architect, designer, and client collaborated closely to craft this oasis, which they dubbed the Sublime Garden. Rustic Buff Cut Stone by Buechel contributes to its soothing outdoor palette. To accommodate an elevation difference of more than 30 feet across the property, the garden is composed of a series of stepped terraces with geometry that creates gathering spaces of various sizes. A dramatic entry roof beckons guests past a striking red sculpture titled Mobius—near a path to the front door that seems to float over a water feature, increasing the sense of a spa-like escape.
FACETS
Facets2
Artistic Expressions
Fashion designer, illustrator, and artist Rebecca Moses has collaborated with Momentum Textiles & Wallcoverings to produce a truly unique wallcovering collection based on her paintings The Queen and Kimono Lady. Moses is renowned for her paintings of women celebrating individuality, diversity, and modern femininity. The Queen is emblematic of artistic inspiration. Confident in her design choices, she wears a simple white shirt, but her accessories and poise make her stand out—details like her brooch and necklace manifest as design elements within the collection. Similarly, Kimono Lady inspired a series of patterns that celebrate diversity and the endless possibilities of embracing one’s identity, blending traditional and modern influences. The bold patterns reflect her multifaceted nature, representing a journey from delicate femininity to empowerment, reminding us that beauty and strength are amplified by the courage to be different. The collection features 10 prints, and Momentum has curated a selection of their elegant textiles to complement the wallcoverings.
FACETS
Facets3
French Panache
Inspired by the lush, charming beauty of the south of France, the L’Éternel Été collection by Les Ensembliers for Brunschwig & Fils, is a sophisticated blend of French-inspired designs, eco-friendly materials, and versatile indoor/outdoor functionality. The collection includes an array of prints and weaves, and incorporates French provincial documents, ikat stripes, geometrics, and modern brushstrokes. Richard Ouellette of Les Ensembliers says, “Everything we imagined about the collection was from a past era of chic riviera beauty. The elegance and lifestyle of the lavish parties and villas of the coast. We were sitting in a little bar in Saint Paul de Vence sipping on spritzes and the name of the fabrics came to be. L’Eternel Eté means a never-ending summer."
FACETS
Facets4
Chasing Waterfalls
Rushing water is one of nature’s most soothing sounds. But if you don’t have access to a source, all is not lost. Formal fountains and pools have their place but to really enjoy the sensory beauty of nature, create something that looks like it has always been a part of the landscape. For this property, Buechel Stone’s Chilton Weatheredge Outcroppings were the perfect solution. Stepped stone formations merge with the existing landscape and create a waterfall effect, complete with the melodious and meditative sound of rushing water.
FACETS
Photography by Sergey Pavlov
Facets5
Carolina Gold
In Flat Rock, North Carolina, John Mayfield Construction was tapped to help create a European cottage look that was distinct from other stone exteriors in the area. The homeowners wanted something that was reflective of their life and personality. To do that, they chose Buechel Stone’s Jute Cloth Country Squire natural stone thin veneer. The buff-colored stones contrast with the surrounding deep blue-green of the famous Blue Ridge Mountains.
FACETS
Facets6
Garden Oasis
For this Chicago property, the landscape architects at Hoerr Schaudt blended respect for the tradition and craftsmanship of the home with livable outdoor spaces for the family. Designed as a series of garden rooms, this landscape includes a cocktail terrace, formal dining garden, family lounge, and and courtyard spa that reflects the home’s historic architecture and its materiality, and to accomplish this, Hoerr Schaudt worked closely with En Masse Architecture and designer Michael Abrams on this historic renovation. The garden’s traditional style reflects the design of the home and celebrates its history. The back garden design includes reclaimed Chicago brick, furnishings by Michael Taylor Designs and JANUS et Cie, fabrics by Perennials, and plantings focused on seasonal interest in spring and a textural focus in the fall.
FACETS
Facets7
Perennial Favorite
Designer Timothy Corrigan returns for his second collection with Perennials Fabrics and Rugs. In this latest offering, he introduces three new designs: Leaping Leopards, Les Fleurs, and Stripe Du Jour, as well as new colorways for some of his previous designs. “My first collection for Perennials had several large-scale patterns that are terrific for statement pieces,” says Corrigan. “My new collection has more of an emphasis on upholstery for use inside the house. We use Perennials on so many of our indoor projects that I wanted this collection to address those situations where quieter patterns and textures are required.” In addition to the chic textiles, the collection also includes three new 100% solution-dyed acrylic Tibetan knot rugs that seamlessly blend classic sophistication with the relaxed luxury of California living, all infused with a French twist.
FACETS
Facets8
On Fire
Kistler Vineyards is located in the Russian River Valley, in Sonoma, California. This famous region produces some of the world’s best wines and the connection to the natural world is of utmost importance. For this outdoor area at Kistler’s Trenton Roadhouse, guests can enjoy a glass or a tasting around a firepit on chilly evenings, along with a view of the vineyards stretching for miles. The Roadhouse has a restored farmhouse, barn, and many thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces. Buechel Stone’s Mill Creek Patterned Flagstone with a thermalled finish complements the natural environment, allowing the native grasses and plantings to shine.
The home’s bold silhouette—including a steep-pitched roof and chateau-esque design—stands out against verdant surroundings.
IN THE MIX
A North Carolina home combines traditional style with modern touches to achieve the best of both worlds.
Buechel Fond du Lac Tailored Blend, Pine Hall Brick’s Chesapeake Pearl, and dark mullioned windows create a sense of sophistication.
As guests approach the home, they are immediately drawn to its striking blend of classic and contemporary elements.
The journey to creating this beautiful home began in a North Carolina neighborhood where the homeowners chose a striking corner lot with a unique blend of privacy and beauty. The builders at Bluestone Construction connected them with ACM Design, who would help realize the owners’ vision for a dream home. “I can remember walking around the woods at the start of construction marking the important trees to preserve,” remembers Kevin Reed of Bluestone. “That’s a special time in the process—standing amongst trees that have stood for over a century, balancing preservation with the practical needs and safety of the home.”
This landscape came to frame a home that embodies a refreshing mix of styles and materials. The homeowners chose Buechel Fond du Lac Tailored Blend for the exterior because of its natural warmth. They spent time considering what color mortar would tie the materials together seamlessly—ultimately choosing a subtle mix of white mortar with white sand. When it came to the choice between full-thickness and thin veneer stone, Reed explains that they used Buechel’s full-thickness stone to achieve proper water table proportions and support the brick. He praises the excellent work of the masons who performed the installation—in particular intricate cut limestone details like the arched entry and circular stone trim accenting windows. Reed notes that the use of natural stone is integral to the character of the home—adding a depth and timeless beauty that cannot be replicated with synthetic materials. And the homeowners say that their experience with Buechel’s product has been outstanding—with quality and craftsmanship that exceeded expectations.
The contrast between the softer tones of the stone and darker accents of the roof, window framing, and sconces was inspired by the homeowners’ years of living in New York City where there is an ever-present juxtaposition of old industrial buildings alongside modern condominiums. They wanted to emulate this mix—striking a balance between traditional features along with sleek accents that would give the place a fresh feel. However, they also felt like they had been light-deprived as apartment dwellers in the city and so were eager to open the home to the outdoors with ample windows.
Today, some of the homeowners’ favorite spaces include the living room, where the wood ceiling adds a warmth that is balanced by modern touches like the art above the fireplace. They say the kitchen reflects their desire to mix materials that are not only beautiful but also contribute a sense of durability and warmth—noting that the room gets plenty of daily use cooking for family and friends. And they love how the firepit area adds a glow to any evening—especially in combination with light streaming from the inside. “Toasting marshmallows has never been more elegant,” they say.
Reed notes that he and the Bluestone Construction team are immensely proud of this home, which has earned awards including Platinum Best in American Living from the National Association of Home Builders. He explains that it would not have been possible without ACM’s exceptional design and the dedication of his team and subcontractors, and he calls the project a testament to craftsmanship and collaboration. Meanwhile, the owners say that the project achieved everything on their wish list: inviting for both family and guests, enhancing cooking and entertaining, and encouraging seamless connection between indoors and outdoors. “We are very happy with how the house turned out,” the homeowners say. “It feels like the perfect balance of traditional elegance and modern functionality.”
Masonry by Brick & Stone. The stones used in the projects are Fond du Lac Tailored Blend with Indiana Silverbuff custom cut Limestone.
Landscaping frames the home with a mix of native plants and trees providing structure and privacy.
The firepit area offers a feeling of intimate connection to both the house and the surrounding environment.
The combination of wood, stone, and metal reflects the home’s vision of blending materials in a harmonious way.
The living room feels like a serene retreat where people can enjoy natural light flooding the space.
In the kitchen, a bold backsplash climbs to the ceiling, lifting one's gaze along with elements like exposed beams and statement pendants.
Nestled along the California coastline, the striking ocean views naturally became a key element in architect Luca Pignata’s design.
Material Connections
With the help of Buechel Stone’s Mill Creek Paving and Silverdale Tailored Blend, this coastal contemporary becomes one with nature.
Pignata says the stone and teak wood used on the facade were selected with longevity in mind. “They feel timeless,” he says. “It will look beautiful on day one and still look beautiful in 20 years.”
“This is a dream come true: A client’s sophisticated vision that came with a property that is stunning and one of a kind.”
Beauty might lie in the eye of the beholder, but most can agree that behind every well-appointed project is an equally beautiful backdrop. When a couple tasked Luca Pignata to work on a property along the California coastline, the architect quickly realized that he was blessed with the ultimate blank canvas. “The property’s placement on a bluff allowed a perfect view of the coastline from all windows,” says Pignata, a Backen Gillam alum who runs his eponymous architecture firm in Northern California. “This is a dream come true: A client’s sophisticated vision that came with a property that is stunning and one of a kind, and the opportunity to create something really special for the place.”
Before Pignata could begin to create a spectacular space, he wanted to understand the property’s natural environment on a cellular level. “As an architect, you need to factor in what’s given to us from the site,” he says. “The geographical location, from the views, the light, the sun patterns, the wind patterns, the sounds.” After learning more about the property, Pignata realized that the Pacific Ocean backdrop was more than a great view: It had to be part of the architecture.
Though the home’s modern profile creates a contemporary contrast against the rugged coastline, Pignata argues it was an “exercise in geometry.” For example, the lower roof profile helps maximize the residence’s square footage without breaching the area’s strict elevation limitations. “The door and the scale of the spaces were designed to capture the horizon line, which is so dramatic throughout the year and changes every day,” he says. “We liked the idea that it also allowed us to create a house that would nest better in the bluff—becoming less noticeable in a way.”
To strike a balance between style and subtlety, it was important to select materials that felt at home along the California coastline. “They wanted a stone that was light in color with not a lot of variation,” says Robin Steudler, an independent natural stone consultant who helped with this project. “Since the property is right there on the water, we had to be very careful as far as sourcing something that would not discolor with the salt air. The materials needed to stand up to all the elements over time.”
When it came to selecting a gorgeous, high-quality stone for this project, Steudler says Buechel Stone was the obvious choice. “When you’ve been in the industry for as long as I have, there are a lot of quarries that you stay away from because you know that you’re asking for problems,” she explains. “Not once did I hesitate with the architect and the contractor that this was the way to go because I knew that Buechel Stone could handle anything that was put in front of them.” The team ultimately selected Buechel Stone’s Silverdale Tailored Blend, an offering that has a light, consistent color. “We were searching for something that had a nice, elegant contrast with the darkness of the teak, but still had some cohesion with the bluff’s sand,” Pignata explains. Additionally, this project required custom heights for the stone in order for it to pattern out correctly without a mortar joint, ensuring a seamless drystacked installation that aligned with the overall design vision.
Though the residence’s facade deftly blends in with its surroundings, the open, airy interior features a mix of expansion and compression to highlight the views. “There is a moment of compression when you first enter the space,” he says. “When you come through that point, the entire space opens up to a completely different scale and you are suddenly having a dialogue with the water.”
While the Pacific Ocean might be a “wow” factor of the home’s interiors, the team brought a little bit of the outside in with Buechel Stone’s Mill Creek Paving, reimagined in its Select Gray colorway. “Since they didn’t want it to look brand new, the quarry distressed the edges on it, which made it look somewhat like a French limestone,” Steudler says. “The color really works well with the facade but adds a different color range to blend in with the landscapes.”
This waterfront property cleverly shows the beauty of the great outdoors—and indoors—but Pignata credits its success to the project’s powerful partnerships. “Great architecture can only happen if the combination of many factors occur. It starts with a visionary and creative mind as a client—and this was one of those projects. When you include the vendors, construction team, and subcontractors we worked with, it was magical.”
Masonry by Cornerstone Masonry of Salinas, CA. The stones used in the projects are Mill Creek Paving and Silverdale Tailored Blend Custom Heights.
The use of teak and stone are continued throughout the home’s interiors.
Sun-drenched windows and a sprinkling of stone throughout the home pay homage to the rugged coastline outside.
“When you include the vendors, construction team, and subcontractors we worked with, it was magical.”
“They work so well together where there is definitely that cohesion in terms of tone, but it doesn’t feel super matchy,” Robin Steudler says of the Buechel Stone varietals used in this home.
Step inside the property to find a welcoming, open-concept floor plan. “It was designed for the family to really be together, spend time together, and play together,” Pignata shares.
PARADE LEADER
A Texan interior designer shapes her family dream home before the parade passes by.
BEST IN SHOW
This is the house of Mallory Klebba, CEO and principal interior designer of RMK & Co. She and husband Ryan joined forces with G. Morris Custom Homes to create their own dream home—boasting multiple entertaining areas, a detached man cave with home office and workshop, separate living quarters to accommodate multi-generational living, and many more enviable amenities. The property was featured as part of the New Braunfels Parade of Homes, where it was awarded “Best of Parade” and “People’s Choice” in addition to being recognized for its kitchen, owner’s suite, floor plan, interior design and craftsmanship.
UNITED IT STANDS
The mix of soft colors in the home’s beautiful Buechel Stone-clad exterior helps lend a sense of unity to the project, even as its roofing varies from lighter shingles that highlight the stone’s earth tones to a darker material that offers contrast while also bringing out some of Charcoal Country Squire gray notes. One of only ten homes featured as part of the 2023 Parade, the cheery exterior greeted nearly 1,800 ticketed guests as part of the competition, which annually showcases the work of the region’s finest luxury home builders and designers.
EASY TRANSITION
Klebba refers to the home’s style as "Transitional European Farmhouse." Its interiors feel warm, relaxed and modern—yet elevated by thoughtful, luxurious touches. Klebba initially honed her skills by flipping properties but realized design was her true calling while helping renovate after damage caused by Hurricane Harvey in 2017. This dream home feels like a fitting reflection of RMK & Co.’s motto: livable luxury, gracefully planned, exquisitely delivered. The stone used in the projects is Charcoal Country Squire.
A threshold and a frame, this opening is an intentional architectural gesture—balancing mass and void, light and shadow. More than a passage, it’s a spatial aperture, seamlessly integrating built form with the infinite horizon beyond.
LAKE EFFECT
Exploring ways to blend the old and the new, while also seamlessly bringing the outdoors in, helped this home use its lakeside location to maximum effect.
Windows with minimal framing preserve the view, while using white oak wood indoors complements nature’s textures and colors.
“To achieve the sense of openness that the client envisioned, we removed walls, elevated floors, and reconfigured the flow.”
On the shores of Lake Winnebago, there once stood a single-story home built in 1949. To reinvent it, the property’s owners came to award-winning architecture firm dSPACE, which is dedicated to creating personalized designs meant to enhance the well-being of those who inhabit them.
Kevin Toukoumidis, founder and principal at dSPACE, says that the property’s owners were committed to preserving the original structure while integrating its architectural language with something new. “The original home was well maintained and its mid-century character attracted them in the first place,” he explains—noting that the owners’ desire to beautifully integrate old and new, outside and in, became a roadmap for the project’s success.
The approach to the home is a semicircular court, crowned with a loggia of steel and cedar. Sculptural rectangular planes clad in stucco frame views of the lake. Toukoumidis notes that the intention here was to artfully integrate the home with its surroundings rather than competing with the natural beauty.
It was also important to the homeowners that the floor plan be oriented to maximize sweeping views of the lake throughout. This was accomplished in part by enlarging windows and removing interior walls—creating what they call a lake room, which blends the kitchen seamlessly with adjacent entertaining areas. “The effect is a beautiful space that feels like a natural extension rather than a separate space for cooking and eating,” says Toukoumidis.
As they took pains to preserve elements of the home’s original mid-century exterior and reimagine the flow of the interior, the team was making significant additions, as well. These included both a second-story, spa-like primary bedroom suite and a new, contemporary guest house. Toukoumidis explains that the dSPACE team used an edited palette of finishes such as limestone, steel, and concrete to help unify old and new spaces. From details in the baseboards and stairways to accessories such as lighting and plumbing fixtures—all are consistent from main house to guest house.
On the subject of beautiful finishes, one of the home’s most extraordinary design moments happens in the bath, where one can relax in a tub overlooking the lake. Framed by luxurious Buechel Smoked Fog Cut Stone, not only does the room come alive with the light from outdoors, but its textures almost seem to mimic the energy of the clouds. It feels almost as if the whole room is floating away.
The appreciation of nature in the project was not merely aesthetic. Sustainability efforts include incorporating high-efficiency mechanical systems, an upgraded thermal envelope, LED lighting, and wiring for an electric car charging station. Toukoumidis notes that sustainable elements have become increasingly important to clients over the years.
And as with any project, there were of course corrections along the way. “Assumptions and initial ideas often evolve as a project progresses, particularly in renovation work,” Toukoumidis explains. One innovative solution the team came up with was to phase the project. By starting with construction on the guest house, the client was able to remain on the property throughout—even during major work on the main house.
And ultimately, Toukoumidis says, both the owners and the team who helped set the stage for this home’s next chapter seem very pleased with the results. “The homeowners were great clients who inspired us, and I think we inspired them,” he says. “Together, we created a one-of-a-kind home that makes us proud. They’re now living their best life in it with their growing family and couldn’t be happier with the outcome.”
Lead mason on the project was Jay Balthazor of Balt Masonry. The stones used in this project include a Fond du Lac custom cut hearthstone and Smoked Fog custom cut stone.
The kitchen’s furniture-quality millwork conceals appliances while matching the details of the rest of the house.
“The bath is finished in waterproof cement and plaster, limestone and tile—all arranged to showcase dramatic views.”
The entire bathroom is arranged to evoke the sense of calm, early mornings on the lake.
IN & OUT
Live your best life with designs that highlight texture, natural materials, and architectural shapes that transition seamlessly from interior spaces to the great outdoors.
OASIQ
Danish Style
Meneghello Paolelli Associati, product designers based in Milan, Italy, collaborated with Oasiq to create the Copenhagen collection. This collection consists of weather-resistant teak and high-performance solution-dyed rope, and includes dining tables, coffee tables, a lounge chair, a dining armchair, a loveseat, and two stools. The collection speaks a language of sophisticated yet understated comfort.
The stone in the image is Buechel’s Blue Ridge River Rock.
REGINA ANDREW DETROIT
Light the Way
Regina Andrew Detroit expands beyond interiors with their latest outdoor lighting designs, redefining how to illuminate exterior spaces and turn porches, patios, and pathways into an extension of indoor style. The playful and whimsical upturned Happy outdoor sconce adds a touch of fun to exterior lighting. Andrews says, “Outdoor spaces deserve the same thoughtful consideration and attention to detail as the interiors we so carefully curate.”
HARBOUR OUTDOOR
Take a Seat
Harbour’s Palm Beach collection is a contemporary nod to its namesake—not in Florida but in Sydney, Australia—where the company was founded in 1976. Featuring rounded backs and vertical rope detailing, the chairs, ottomans, and lounges are offered in both aluminum and teak. Now based in Los Angeles, the company continues to bring innovative and timeless designs of the highest quality to market.
FISHER & PAYKEL
Kitchen Confidential
Fisher & Paykel and DCS cooking solutions are designed to transition seamlessly from the indoor to the outdoor kitchen. Create the ideal cooking appliance that can smoke, sear, rotisserie, bake, and slow cook for year-round exceptional cooking performance. The cart comes in a range of sizes with ample options for storage. The hallmark of the brand is a showcase of flexibility, continuity and quality in every aspect of cooking and design.
TUUCI
Nautical Style
Seamlessly merging offshore, natural influences with onshore comfort and meticulous detailing, Tuuci’s new Meritage Collection—designed by Dougan Clarke, founder, CEO, and chief product designer of Tuuci—is an organic interpretation of precision, refined artistry, and balanced simplicity. Each piece blends clean lines, tailored finishes, and nautically inspired materials to live well in the most rugged exterior environments, well-curated transitional spaces, and refined interiors.
PAVILION
Form and Function
The Cavo table by Pavilion delivers brilliant functionality in a friendly, architectural form. Inspired by the cavernous bald cypress trees native to the Florida Everglades, this table features a simple, barrel-shaped silhouette with a hollow base. Cavo allows for convenient poolside storage of towels, sandals, or sun lotion, while the clever design also makes it easy to transport. Constructed from high-quality aluminum, Cavo can be customized in a variety of powder coat finishes.
HOLLY HUNT
Lounge Life
Holly Hunt’s Salamander lounge chair and ottoman are an elegant and inviting addition to any contemporary outdoor space. The stylish and comfortable seating has generous proportions, and the tubular frame creates a double layered shape that extends to the chair’s legs. Wrapped in dense woven cord, the chair is at once sumptuous, tactile, and graceful.
TRUE RESIDENTIAL
Champagne Dreams
True Residential’s Dual-Tap dispenser comes in all the brand’s vibrant colors, including their newest Champagne finish. Ideal for the beer connoisseur or for those who love to entertain, this draft beer dispenser uses exclusive airflow technology to deliver a frosty and refreshing beverage. Best of all, this versatile cooler can be converted to a Beverage Center, Wine Cabinet, or All Refrigerator, making it adaptable as your needs change.
POLIFORM
Natural Details
Part sculpture and part coffee table, the Strata collection by Emmanuel Gallina for Poliform, is inspired by mineral stratifications. With different sizes and heights, each piece is unique, like stones in nature. The Magnolia seating collection, also by Gallina, is inspired by natural details such as the flowing lines of branches and the weightlessness of a falling leaf.
JANUS ET CIE
Out of Africa
JANUS et Cie teamed up with award-winning designer and architect Philippe Starck to create Serengeti, an outdoor dining and lounge collection. Inspired by nature and the spectacular Tanzanian savanna for which it is named, Serengeti is a marriage of timeless elegance and refined natural elements. Its frames are constructed of fine sanded teak with visible peg joinery, powder-coated aluminum, and sturdy, canvas sling mesh. One of Serengeti’s most distinctive pieces is the two-seat, high back sofa with an integrated awning, perfect for sun protection, whether gazing across the plains, relaxing on the veranda, or lounging poolside.
BLUE DOT
Curves and Lines
The Loophole collection, by Minneapolis-based modern furniture brand, Blu Dot, includes a lounge chair, two-seat sofa, and three-seat sofa. All are composed of an all-weather rattan frame for a modern, yet classic look. The seat and back cushions are upholstered in high-performance Sunbrella fabric that is mildew and fade resistant. The arms of each piece rise from the base and appear to loop down into the cushions, elevating its design and giving the collection its name.
INSPIRATION IN THE WILD
Nature’s Grandeur Reimagined: Harnessing the majesty of stone and the power of design to reflect the timeless inspiration of Muir Woods National Park. Text by LouAnn Berglund
From Ancient Redwoods to Inspired Interiors
THE TEXTURES
of Muir Woods
Buechel Stone’s Jute Cloth Webwall
Muir Woods, a living testament to nature’s resilience and beauty, was preserved in 1908 thanks to the efforts of Congressman William Kent and President Theodore Roosevelt. Named for conservationist John Muir, this sanctuary north of San Francisco shelters ancient coastal redwoods, some over 1,000 years old and soaring 250 feet into the sky. Beneath their towering canopy, the forest floor is alive with vibrant ferns, moss-covered stones, and delicate wildflowers, while filtered sunlight creates a dynamic interplay of golden highlights and soft shadows. These natural elements provide an unparalleled palette for interior design, inspiring spaces that evoke serenity and connection. The rich umbers and russets of the redwood bark suggest grounding tones for reclaimed wood or terracotta accents, while the velvety greens of moss and ferns invite the incorporation of lush textiles and botanical motifs. The silvery lichen and muted blues of shaded streams bring a soft, cooling balance, ideal for natural stone or subtle wall treatments. Muir Woods’ textures—rough bark, soft moss, and delicate foliage—encourage a tactile approach to design, crafting interiors that reflect the forest’s layered beauty and timeless tranquility.
Antigua Drum Chandelier
Helios Large Semi-Flush Mount all from Visual Comfort & Co.
Corinne Wrapped Hanging Shade
From top to bottom: Burnt Orange paint colors from Benjamin Moore: Byzantine, Masada, Tandoori, Georgian Brick, Burnt Russet.
Delight in entertaining, hosting enchanting al fresco gatherings in a lush, verdant garden. Featuring: Le Mistral Print from Performance Indoor/Outdoor collection, L’Éternel Été by Brunschwig & Fils.
Designing with
SCALE
Elevating Interiors with Natural Stone
Nestled in the heart of Muir Woods, any size of adventurers are dwarfed by the ancient redwoods towering above—a reminder of nature’s majesty and the timeless wonder of being among the giants of the forest.
Commanding Scale: A Statement of Grandeur
Few materials evoke the timeless presence of natural stone. Its ability to anchor a space with enduring elegance and a sense of permanence makes it a natural choice for creating dramatic impact. Inspired by the towering grandeur of redwoods, large-format stone slabs or expansive walls of stone create striking architectural statements. Buechel Stone’s offerings, such as full bed veneers or custom stone cladding, effortlessly bring this sense of scale into a space, connecting it to the natural world.
A fireplace clad in Buechel’s Oiled Nubuck Fieldstone becomes a defining feature, its rugged textures and earthy tones reminiscent of ancient tree bark. Rising to the ceiling of a great room, it captures the verticality of the redwoods while grounding the space in nature’s beauty. Similarly, a façade wrapped in natural stone enables a seamless transition between architecture and the surrounding environment. The stone’s organic hues and patterns harmonize with the landscape, blurring the boundaries between built and natural worlds.
Intimacy Through Detail
While monumental applications establish grandeur, the smaller details invite intimacy. Subtle touches, like mosaic inlays or carefully selected stone for hearth designs, reflect the intricate textures and tones of the forest floor. These elements add warmth and refinement, encouraging a closer interaction with the material.
The tactile quality of natural stone fosters a deeper connection to its surroundings. Buechel Stone’s natural beauty with various patterns and hues, effortlessly creates a connection to the tranquility of nature, drawing it into interior spaces. Combine these details to echo the quiet beauty of nature, drawing the forest’s tranquility into interior spaces.
Texture as a Design Language
The layered textures of Muir Woods—from rough bark to polished stones shaped by water —demonstrate the power of juxtaposition in design. This interplay of surfaces creates depth and complexity, transforming interiors into reflections of nature’s artistry.
A waterfall island clad in polished stone offers a striking contrast to a backsplash of textured veneer, much like the dynamic interaction of sunlight and shadow beneath the forest canopy. Similarly, a bathroom with honed stone walls and a pebble-textured shower floor evokes the serene experience of walking along a shaded stream. These combinations engage the senses, crafting spaces that feel grounded and alive.
Balancing Scale in High Design
The thoughtful interplay of scale shapes environments that are both monumental and inviting. A towering stone accent wall, perhaps clad in Buechel Stone’s Jute Cloth Webwall (see page 57), can evoke the majesty of redwoods while providing a canvas for light and shadow to play. Complementary furnishings—plush seating in forest-inspired tones or soft textiles—temper the grandeur, introducing a sense of approachability and comfort. This harmony between bold gestures and intimate details mirrors the layered experience of Muir Woods.
Timeless Inspiration
Muir Woods offers a profound reminder of nature’s ability to balance extremes: towering heights and intricate details, rugged textures and soft greenery. Stone, both enduring and versatile, bridges these contrasts within the built environment. Whether through a dramatic fireplace or a subtly textured backsplash, stone captures the essence of the forest’s grandeur while inviting the quiet intimacy of its understory.
Buechel Stone enhances this connection to nature, allowing interiors and exteriors to reflect the layered beauty of the world outside. With careful attention to scale and texture, design becomes a reflection of nature’s timeless elegance—a sanctuary where the monumental and the personal coexist in perfect harmony.
An infinite study in texture and
TONE
The greens of Muir Woods reveal a timeless palette for thoughtful design.
Benjamin Moore’s Amazon Moss
Muir Woods offers an extraordinary study in the depth and versatility of green, with its foliage showcasing an endless spectrum of this serene hue. The vibrant, sunlit greens of ferns create an energetic vibrancy at eye level, while the mosses that drape stones and logs add a velvety richness with deeper emerald tones. The canopy of the redwoods introduces softer, muted greens that play with light, shifting from golden-lime highlights to shadowy olive depths.
Designing with this layered palette invites a thoughtful exploration of color and light. For interiors, consider pairing brighter greens with contrasting darker shades to emulate the forest’s natural rhythm. Add texture through fabrics, finishes, and accessories that reflect the tactile beauty of moss and leaves. By incorporating ambient lighting, you can replicate the dappled light filtering through the redwood canopy, creating spaces that feel alive, layered, and deeply connected to nature.
From left: Karlie Large Hanging Shade, Mahalo Tri Pendant, Stag Chandelier by Ralph Lauren, all from Visual Comfort & Co.
A serene corner adorned with fabrics from L’Éternel Été collection by Brunschwig & Fils where Le Mistral Print, Le Jasmin Print, and La Mer Weave come together in a beautiful mix of pattern and texture.
Buechel Stone’s Oiled Nubuck Fieldstone
From left: Benjamin Moore’s Green Thumb, Farrow & Ball’s Calke Green, Farrow & Ball’s Breakfast Room Green, Benjamin Moore’s Chic Lime.
Our Artisans
At Buechel Stone, every voice matters, every hand plays a role, and every effort contributes to something greater than the sum of its parts. We hold ourselves and one another to the highest standards, creating not just structures, but stories.
Ours is a craft of transformation—shaping the enduring into the timeless, the raw into the remarkable. Together, we craft beauty that resonates far beyond its making, leaving behind something truly unforgettable.
