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by Leah Serra, Contributing Writer for The House Designers®
It's time to bring the exterior and interior of any build to new heights! You can easily upgrade its appeal and value by using some stone accents throughout. Veneer is a cost- and labor-effective option suitable for all sorts of applications; this lightweight product is crafted using molds of real rock or other materials and hand-painted to a unique, authentic finish. Because of this, a natural look at an attainable price level is achieved. With so much variety, you'll find the perfect look for each part of your build—here are some of our favorite areas and products.
Bathroom Accents
No bathroom is complete without a natural touch. Even the smallest of powder rooms needs a spark. A backsplash behind the countertop is a relatively simple feature that adds incredible value. A standard four-inch, or even a ceiling-high backsplash, of veneer is an inexpensive option. So, if you want buyers to remember your build, add something to catch their eye!
A backsplash is always appreciated, but why not really make a splash by adding an entire wall feature? There's nothing wrong with a standard backsplash, but they are increasingly common, so your build might not stand out as much. Consider using 25-45 square feet of veneer to create a sleek and spa-like atmosphere that will be any buyer's dream in-home getaway. Your build will immediately be upgraded to a high-quality and custom home, in the eyes of potential buyers.
Appealing Exteriors
Let's talk curb appeal. It's important to have great landscaping and the right front door color, but what really makes a customer's jaw drop when they pull up to view your new build? Color and texture variation on a façade! Beautiful stonework is the high-end buyer's bread and butter, so make a mark from the moment they pull up! Building a classic ranch this season? Bring in the "wow factor" by adding stonework to the lower half of its front face. And no modern mansion is complete without a few accented exterior walls! We all know that any true Craftsman home needs natural elements throughout, so consider stonework for pillars, walls, and for deck accenting.
Exterior stone is often required in new neighborhoods, where a minimum percentage of coverage is mandated by local codes or the homeowners association. They're expecting front face accents, but stone is also definitely an outdoor living staple! There are countless options that are both customer- and builder-friendly. Grand fireplaces, barbecues, cabinetry, and walkways are created easily with lightweight manufactured stone. Veneer made of glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) is exceptionally adaptable due to its low weight and because it's easy to cut to size. This minimizes wasted material and lets you do more with your budget!
Beautiful Fireplaces
Living spaces need a focal point or key feature. An appealing and obvious go-to option for many new home builds is a fireplace. But how can you make this focal point set the right tone for the space? Use fireplace surrounds, hearths, mantel shelving, and/or wall accents to bring in the luxurious feel that buyers are looking for. Fireplace features like these come in every sort of style to match all kinds of architecture and interiors. For a traditional ambiance, you can't go wrong with a surround with the look of natural limestone—you'll find multiple naturally inspired color and texture options. Want to make it an unforgettable feature? Bring in a rock or brick texture to pop against!
Check out Eldorado Stone and Kindred Outdoors & Surrounds to see countless stone accent options that will keep your customers and budget happy! They have a huge range of brick and stone veneer options, fireplace accents, outdoor kitchen and living space building blocks, and more. And if you want to find what your customers are really looking for in regard to home floor plans—many with great stone features—try looking through our collection of Best-Selling Home Plans today!