Interior stone cladding

The use of quality natural stone materials to enhance internal spaces, be it in a religious, legal, commercial or hospitality environment, has been used over many centuries. While the use of stone has largely been lost as a structural material to concrete and steel as favoured over the 19^th, 20^th and into the 21^st century, the use of natural stonework as an internal high-quality finish remains as relevant now as in times past. This is a testament to the allure, standing and durability of such materials.

Historically, granite and marble were the most common materials adopted for such use. The availability, adoption and use of the various marbles and granites as internal finishes can be traced from the 16^th to 19^th century, where a direct correlation between the expansion of international trade and emerging early masonry manufacturing techniques led to a plethora of high-quality materials and production abilities transforming the market. This is a process still ongoing today with natural stone being quarried and manufactured from all corners of the globe.

The recent development of BS 8928 Pt 5 Internal Cladding is the most up to date industry document applicable to the use of natural stonework as an internal cladding. Early reference to this document and dialogue with a specialist stone contractor is highly recommended to fully understand the potential for the use of stone as an internal finish.

With internal finishes not being limited to walls natural stone, flooring can be an equal partner in ensuring your project is set off with a statement entrance and reception area. BS 5385 Pt 5 is the reference document for natural stone flooring.

Similar to cladding, the multitude of backing structures and flooring make ups require careful consideration. With both elements now regularly being highly serviced, combined with modern BIM and CAD design capabilities and advanced manufacturing possibilities, there is a lot to consider when integrating a natural stone design into a visually inspiring and welcoming reception area.

This is where PMJ can offer a one stop shop assisting from early feasibility design, all the way through to procurement installation, handover and beyond, including a maintenance and repair capability.