A new home in one of Clayton’s National Register Historic Districts features a unique “twisted spiral” chimney designed by architect Lauren Strutman, president of Lauren Strutman Architects, P.C. The very distinctive detailing of the spiral chimney mirrors the character of the neighboring historic homes.

Texture and pattern contrast were achieved by combining brick, tumbled limestone and a smooth clay chimney pot. (Tumbling is a mechanical process that makes the stone surfaces irregular, subtly creating a worn, charming appearance.)  The extraordinary corkscrew shape of the chimney draws the eye to its unique design.

“It was important for the home to be compatible with its historic surroundings,” says Lauren. The owners wanted a new home with Old World Charm, suitable for the neighborhood. Original homes in the district, c. 1910-1930, are period homes, and their design suggests earlier styles, including Medieval, Tudor, Regency, Georgian and Colonial Revival.

Sturdy construction, high-quality craftsmanship, diverse textures and handsome details are among the character-defining elements that this architecturally noval chimney shares with the area’s original, meticulously designed and elegantly proportioned residences.

“The chimney shows beautiful materials and the outstanding craftsmanship of our local masons,” states Lauren.

For picture and resources, check out the link below:

http://www.stlouishomesmag.com/St-Louis-Homes-and-Lifestyles/March-2010/A-Twist-on-the-Traditional/

Here’s a Q&A from Danielle Bach at Kirchner Block and Brick on remodeling your home with masonry materials.

Q:  What are the easiest ways to update a home’s exterior?

A: With less people moving and more people updating their homes, manufacturers have created products that are affordable and suitable for modernizing an existing home.  Thin brick and thin stone materials make it easy for a home that previously used siding to be transformed into a beautiful masonry home.  Each of these materials wighs less than 15 lbs per square foot so they can be applied to any interior or exterior wall system.

Q:  Why choose masonry when updating your home?

A:  Simply put; masonry adds value.  Whether it’s a complete renovation or addition, if you incorporate masonry you’re adding value to your home.  Brick and stone come in a variety of shapes, colors, textures, and sizes and offer a maintenance-free, affordable home.  With endless artistic applications you can re-create a home that suits your individual style.  Whether adding stone waterfalls or creating a dramatic arched entrance way with Cast Stone, you get to choose the overall feel and look of your “new” existing home.

Q:  What are the most current trends when updating a home?

A:  On the interior, we are seeing veneer stone and brick being added in kitchens as back splashes, renovation of older fireplaces, additions of wine cellars in basements, and even media rooms.  Or for the exterior, the combination of natural stone and brick set the standard.  Color combinations are moving away from gray and red to more earthtone shades.

Email trends@kirchnerblock for a link to any of the products mentioned,  You can also reach Kirchner Block and Brick at 314-291-3200 or visit their showroom at 12901 St. Charles Rock Road, Bridgeton, MO 63044, or website at www.kirchnerblock.com.