When it comes to stonemasonry, Len Lavas is a purist at heart.

He and the stonemasons under his employ at Auckland Stonemasons are traditional in their approach. Instead of using mechanical grinders to cut stone down to the right sizes, they use a hammer and chisel – not only for its increased precision, but also its efficiency.

it’s very easy to cut too much off with a mechanical grinder – and this happens all too often if stonemasons and architects aren’t aligned on how stone exteriors will factor into the wider design of residential projects. The solution is simple, architects should always consult with stonemasons before they begin the design phase.

For example, the architect and stonemason must both be clear on exactly how much space there is between an exterior corner and a window. If not enough space is allotted, the stone would need to be whittled down to fit into the space, lowering its durability.

Fortunately, this is the scenario that played out in the company’s latest project, a recently completed home in Beachlands. The brief called for a modern mix of Te Kuiti limestone cladding for the ground level, and timber cladding for the upper level – a combination that provided not only an fascinating juxtapostion but also an opportunity for Auckland Stonemasons to show their prowess at working with accommodating outside materials into their stonework.