Author name: ecom

The Vision When a client approached me with a vision of a cream limestone patio featuring a firepit, I was intrigued. But the real challenge lay in the details. She wanted a “Poodle hair” finish on the rocks, a drystack look, and large, pentagon-shaped stones measuring at least 16 inches. With no visual reference, I knew this would be a test of my masonry expertise. The Challenge The “Poodle hair” finish was a particularly interesting request. It implied a texture that was both soft and detailed, similar to the coat of a poodle. This meant careful selection of stones with the right texture and the ability to achieve a consistent finish throughout the patio. The drystack look presented another hurdle. Drystack masonry is a technique that doesn’t use mortar, relying solely on the weight and balance of the stones to hold the structure together. This requires precision and experience to ensure the patio is both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound. The Solution To bring this vision to life, I began by sourcing high-quality cream limestone stones. I carefully selected stones with a texture that would lend itself to the “Poodle hair” finish. Once I had a sufficient quantity of stones, I started laying the patio. Achieving the drystack look required a delicate touch. I carefully placed each stone, ensuring that it was level and that its weight was distributed evenly. The pentagon-shaped stones added a unique and modern element to the patio, while the minimum size of 16 inches provided a sense of grandeur. To create the “Poodle hair” finish, I used a specialized tool to carve small grooves into the surface of each stone. However, to achieve the desired level of texture and detail, I also employed a hammer and chisel to carefully chip away at the edges of each stone. This process allowed me to create a more irregular and organic surface that perfectly complemented the “Poodle hair” aesthetic. The Result The finished patio was a testament to the power of imagination and skilled craftsmanship. The “Poodle hair” finish, combined with the drystack technique and the unique shape of the stones, created a truly one-of-a-kind outdoor space. My client was thrilled with the result, and I was immensely proud of the team’s accomplishment. This project was a reminder of the importance of listening to clients’ visions and using creativity and skill to bring them to life. It’s a project that I’ll always cherish as a highlight of my career.

Introduction Are you looking for a simple yet impactful way to upgrade the look of your Austin home? Consider German Schmear, also known as limewashing or mortar wash. This technique involves applying a thin layer of lime-based plaster to stone or brick surfaces, creating a soft, textured finish that can dramatically enhance the appearance of your exterior. The Benefits of German Schmear The German Schmear Process The German Schmear process typically involves the following steps: Why German Schmear is a Better Choice Than Paint Many homeowners opt to paint their stone or brick exteriors, but this can actually be detrimental to the material. Paint can clog the pores of the stone or brick, trapping moisture and leading to problems such as mold, mildew, and efflorescence. German Schmear, on the other hand, allows the material to breathe, preventing these issues and helping to maintain its natural beauty. Conclusion German Schmear is a beautiful and practical way to upgrade the look of your Austin home. By choosing this technique over traditional paint, you can enhance your home’s appearance while also preserving its structural integrity. If you’re considering a home exterior makeover, German Schmear is definitely worth exploring.

Introduction When we embarked on our backyard renovation, we knew we wanted something truly unique. We decided to experiment with a mix of materials from three different regions: Austin, Texas; Saltillo, Mexico; and the surrounding areas. The result is a stunning wall that showcases the beauty and versatility of each material. The Materials The Construction Process Building a wall with three different materials requires careful planning and execution. We worked closely with our contractor to ensure that the materials were compatible and that the construction process was seamless. The clay breezeblocks were particularly challenging to work with due to their irregular shapes and sizes. However, the extra time and effort were well worth it. The Finished Product The finished wall is a testament to the beauty and versatility of our chosen materials. The combination of concrete, clay, and limestone creates a visually striking and textured surface. The handmade nature of the clay breezeblocks adds a touch of artisanal charm. Conclusion Building a wall like this is a time-consuming project, but the rewards are immense. The finished product is a unique and beautiful addition to our backyard. We’re so pleased with the way the different materials complement each other and create a truly one-of-a-kind space.