Limestone Learning Deep in the Heart of Texas
FLORENCE, Texas — A 72” saw sings and pneumatic hammers ping — what better way is there to support the ICAA (Institute of Classical Architecture and Art) and earn 3 required credits for design licensing and accreditation?
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On April 22, some 30 ICAA members took the plunge to earn CEUs and immersed themselves in a day of Texas limestone to learn more about the state’s plentiful architectural resource.
Attendees came from as far away as Illinois and the Texas cities of Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin and San Antonio to expand their knowledge base under the tutelage of 90 + years combined experience from experts in stone fabrication, design and carving in the limestone production and design business.
The day started with a tour at Continental Cut Stone’s fabrication mill, where President/Founder Rob Teel presented “Concept to Delivery.” Key takeaway included a better understanding of the types of quarrying; how the different sizes of limestone block relate to scaling in the design; limestone applications; LEED point discussions; shop drawings; and best practices with more cost-effective cuts to expensive designs.
A mill tour followed, with a full demonstration of cutting limestone blocks the size of a small car to form into architectural elements.
The group then took a quick trip to Texas Carved Stone for a light lunch and hands-on stone carving. Bob Ragan of Texas Carved Stone, Matthew Johnson of Bartlett Stone, and Stuart Simpson of Austin Stone Carving were delighted to share their stonecarver expertise as they watched over and guided the attendees.
Casual discussions ranging from designing in stone to installing fireplace over mantles were heard throughout the day. Participants who wanted to try their hand at carving grabbed a pneumatic carving tool and cut out their way to their own designs in stone.
Thanks to Texas ICAA board, Austin Chapter Steering Committee, Bartlett Stone and Texas Carved Stone and Continental Cut Stone for “Pulling Back the Curtain on Limestone Architectural Design” and thanks to all those who took a Saturday to participate.
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