Blog & News
Natural Stone: A Complete Guide for Architects, Builders, and Designers
This guide clarifies what natural stone is, how it performs, and where it fits in 2026 building projects. Whether you’re designing a civic landmark or a luxury home, understanding this material helps you make better decisions.
Times: Maya Lin’s A Parallel Nature at 270 Park Avenue
Quarra Stone partnered with artist Maya Lin to fabricate A Parallel Nature, a monumental granite installation for JPMorgan Chase’s new 270 Park Avenue tower in New York City.
Architectural Details that Define Public Spaces: Stone Balustrades, Columns, and Cornices
Stone balustrades and columns combine timeless beauty, durability, and craftsmanship to enhance architectural spaces with lasting value and classical elegance.
Celebrating May Work Anniversaries at Quarra Stone Company
Each month, we take a moment to recognize the exceptional individuals who make our studio what it is. May is no different—this month, we are proud to celebrate the work anniversaries of team members whose dedication, curiosity, and flawless craftsmanship have left a lasting mark on everything we do. Behind every historic restoration project and every meticulously finished piece of stone are the people who show up, day after day, to build lifelong vocations. Discover how long-term dedication shapes Quarra Stone Company careers and builds a culture rooted in precision, historical intuition, and shared purpose.
Public Art in Stone: How Sculptural Installations Shape Community Identity
Public art in stone has played a crucial role in human civilization for thousands of years. From ancient statues carved from raw rock to contemporary marble sculptures in modern cities, stone-based public art continues to shape how communities experience and connect with shared environments. These works are not only visually compelling—they serve a vital role in the public sphere by creating meaning, memory, and a lasting sense of place that endures for generations.
Celebrating April Work Anniversaries at Quarra Stone Company
Each month, we take a moment to recognize the people who make Quarra Stone Company what it is. This April, we are proud to celebrate the work anniversaries of Steve Ensor, Marc Vaage, and Kim Nelson—team members whose dedication, skill, and character have shaped our culture and our craft for decades. From sales and technical design to production maintenance and essential business operations, these individuals represent the heart of our company and the expertise behind every architectural masterpiece we create.
From the American Dream to Franco Cervietti’s workshop
James Durham embodies the true spirit of the American self-made man. Starting his journey in the industry at just 22 years old, he built one of the most prestigious architectural stone companies in the United States: Quarra Stone Company. For over 30 years, Durham has led the Madison-based company through a deep evolution—from managing limestone quarries to acquiring the historic Franco Cervietti artistic workshop in Pietrasanta. Discover his story, rooted in a passion for chemistry, craft, and the enduring beauty of natural stone.
Site Visit to Silver Cloud Quarry for Peace Corps Park Project Assessment
This month, Quarra’s Nate McCalmont and Steven Rousseau traveled to Atlanta’s Silver Cloud Quarry as part of our ongoing work for the Peace Corps Park project. This congressionally authorized memorial in Washington, D.C., will feature sculptural benches crafted from world-renowned Silver Cloud granite. Our team was on-site to assess grain patterns and structural integrity, ensuring the selected stone meets the high aesthetic and performance standards required for this historic national tribute.
Quarra Stone Hosts AIA Southwest Wisconsin and CSI-Madison Chapter for Facility Tour
Quarra Stone hosted AIA and CSI members, highlighting how modern technology and traditional craftsmanship come together in precision stone fabrication and custom projects.
Striving Toward Perfection: How Quarra Stone Uses Levitation To Shape Stone
Quarra Stone unveils a groundbreaking CNC machine with magnetic levitation technology, enabling frictionless, ultra-precise stone fabrication and redefining what’s possible in architectural and sculptural stonework.
Quarra Stone Expands Global Reach with Acquisition of Franco Cervietti, Italy’s Premier Stone Workshop
Quarra Stone acquires Italy’s Franco Cervietti studio, blending Italian craftsmanship with Quarra’s expertise to elevate global stone fabrication and sculpture.
Site Visit to Vermont Marble Quarry for E9 Project Assessment
Our team visited a Vermont marble quarry to inspect a rare block for the E9 project, conducting detailed assessments and gaining insights into the quarry’s advanced stone processing operations.
Quarra Stone’s Brian Smith & Alex Marshall present at MIT’s Out of Frame Lecture Series
Quarra Stone leaders joined MIT’s Out of Frame series to share how the company merges traditional craftsmanship with modern digital fabrication to shape the future of architectural stonework.
How Stone Carving Machines Are Revolutionizing the Art of Sculpture
Modern stone carving machines are transforming sculpture and architecture by combining CNC precision with traditional craftsmanship. Explore how this technology enables intricate designs while honoring timeless artistry.
The Evolution of Stone Carving: From Hand Tools to Precision Machines
Explore the fascinating story of stone carving — from ancient chisels and hammers to CNC machines and robotics. See how tradition and technology shape timeless stone design.
Traditional vs. Digital Fabrication: Choosing the Right Approach for Custom Commercial Stonework
Balancing craftsmanship and technology is key in modern architecture. Discover how traditional methods and digital fabrication unite to shape enduring, custom commercial stonework.
James Durham of Quarra Stone and Germane Barnes Present Columnar Disorder at CODAsummit
At the 2025 CODAsummit, Quarra Stone and architect Germane Barnes presented *Columnar Disorder*, a reimagining of classical architecture through the lens of the African diaspora. Their collaboration produced sculptural works now part of the Art Institute of Chicago’s collection.
From Quarry to Masterpiece: The Marble Sculpture Process
Discover the marble sculpture process—from selecting premium Carrara blocks to design, carving, robotic fabrication, and hand-finished polishing—guided by Quarra Stone’s artisans.
Building with History: The Story and Legacy of Vals Quartzite in Modern Architecture
Explore Vals Quartzite from its Swiss alpine origins to its role in modern architecture. Learn about durability, finishes, sustainability, and how Quarra Stone fabricates and installs this iconic material.
Combining Handcraft and Technology: Where Traditional Stone Fabrication Excels in Complex Projects
Explore how traditional stone fabrication combines with CNC, laser measurement, and 3D modeling to deliver precise, durable, and artful results for restorations and contemporary builds.
Preserving the Legacy: Best Stone Restoration & Preservation Practices for Long-Term Longevity
Learn the best practices for stone restoration and preservation to protect your investment. This guide covers preventing weather damage, graffiti, and the importance of professional maintenance for ensuring the long-term longevity and beauty of any stone installation.
Bloomberg Businessweek
Quarra Stone is proud to be featured in Bloomberg Businessweek’s story on how robotics and digital tools are transforming the art of stone sculpture. From Pietrasanta, Italy—home to Michelangelo’s marble—Quarra is helping lead the future of craftsmanship by blending tradition with innovation.
Hand-Finished Stone: Bringing Warmth and Authenticity to Urban Spaces
Hand-finished stone represents the intersection of artistry and urban design, where skilled craftspeople transform raw materials into living architectural elements. Beyond mere construction, these stone surfaces tell stories of tradition, resilience, and human connection, bringing warmth and authenticity to contemporary cityscapes through meticulous hand-crafted techniques.
Marble Sculpture with Veil: The Mastery Behind This Captivating Art Form
Marble sculpture with veil represents the pinnacle of artistic illusion, where master sculptors transform solid stone into gossamer-thin fabric that seems to breathe with life. From the iconic Veiled Christ to Corradini’s delicate masterpieces, these sculptures challenge perception, revealing the extraordinary potential of marble to capture human emotion and divine mystery.
Vals Quartzite: The Ultimate Material for Timeless Urban Design
Vals Quartzite represents the pinnacle of natural stone design, quarried exclusively from the Swiss Alps. This extraordinary material offers architects and designers a unique blend of timeless elegance, exceptional durability, and sustainable beauty. From Peter Zumthor’s iconic Therme Vals spa to cutting-edge urban landscapes, Vals Quartzite transforms spaces with its distinctive gray tones, reflective qualities, and unparalleled resilience.
Quarra Stone and Client Visit Sierra White Quarry in Preparation for Major 2026 Project
Quarra Stone recently joined a client at the Sierra White® quarry in Minnesota, marking a key milestone for a major 2026 project. The visit, hosted by Coldspring USA, highlighted Quarra’s collaborative approach to material selection and its commitment to quality from quarry to installation.
Honoring Craft and Community: Quarra Stone’s 4th Annual Gathering in Pietrasanta, Italy
Each summer, Quarra Stone hosts a gathering in Pietrasanta, Italy to celebrate stone, art, and collaboration. This year’s event featured a private studio tour at Cervietti by Quarra and an unforgettable evening at Hotel Paradis, bringing together creators from around the world.
James Durham & Martin Foot Visit Candoglia Quarry and Milan Cathedral
Quarra Stone visited the historic Candoglia Quarry and Milan’s Duomo, tracing centuries of craftsmanship and cultural legacy. The experience reaffirmed our commitment to timeless stonework and inspired our ongoing dedication to the craft.
Germane Barnes’ Identity Column Finds a Permanent Home in Miami
Quarra Stone helped bring Germane Barnes’ Identity Column to life—a powerful reinterpretation of the classical column through an African diasporic lens. Now installed at Magnus Brickell, the work blends cultural storytelling with architectural innovation.
Mentorship Spotlight: Rachele Pierini Visits from Pietrasanta
Last week, Quarra Stone welcomed Rachele Pierini, a master craftswoman from Pietrasanta, Italy, renowned for its rich marble artistry heritage. Her visit fostered a hands-on mentorship, bridging centuries of stoneworking tradition and enhancing our team’s skills. This collaboration underscores our commitment to preserving and evolving the timeless art of stone carving through meaningful partnerships.
Exploring the Beauty of White Marble Sculpture in Classical and Modern Art
From the elegance of the Venus de Milo to cutting-edge custom busts, explore the timeless allure and artistic evolution of white marble sculpture in fine art.
From Worn to Wow: The Transformation Power of Prestige Stone Restoration
Discover how prestige stone restoration revives architectural heritage and restores natural stone to its original brilliance. Explore expert techniques, benefits, and insights from Quarra Stone’s unmatched craftsmanship.
Iowa State Architecture Students Visit Quarra Stone for Sustainable Design Project
Quarra Stone recently hosted Iowa State architecture students for a hands-on sustainability project. Using reclaimed stone and innovative composites, the students will design and build a functional structure to support agricultural workers—showcasing real-world solutions for sustainable architecture.
Custom Stone Engraving: Bringing Unique Visions to Life in Sculpture
Stone has been a medium of artistic expression for centuries, allowing sculptors to create timeless works that capture history, culture, and personal narratives. Whether crafting intricate marble sculptures, detailed custom bust sculptures, or large-scale sandstone sculptures, expert craftsmanship and technology play a crucial role in turning visions into reality. At Quarra Stone, we combine tradition with innovation to produce custom stone engravings and masterfully carved sculptures that stand the test of time.
How to Select Stone: Tips for Choosing the Best Material for Your Project
When embarking on an architectural or artistic project, selecting the right stone is crucial to achieving durability, aesthetics, and functionality. Whether you’re sourcing natural sandstone from a sandstone quarry or considering high-end materials like Vals Quartzite, a strategic approach will ensure the success of your project. Making the right choice involves evaluating the environmental factors, design preferences, and longevity of different stone types. By taking a comprehensive approach, you can ensure that the material aligns perfectly with both functional and visual expectations.
