Usually you can tell at a glance whether a fireplace is masonry or prefab. While traditionalists prefer the aged look of a masonry fireplace, not every house is blessed with one. That’s when a prefabricated fireplace may be the best solution. Both can add that wonderful fire element to your home, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. Continue reading →
Presidents’ Day turns our thoughts towards patriotism – and where it intersects with fireplaces, of course.
This annual holiday is celebrated on the third Monday in February and originally began in 1885 to honor George Washington (his birthday was February 22), but now commemorates all American presidents. Continue reading →
Fires are cozy, welcoming, and remind many of us of holidays and beloved family traditions. But if built improperly, they can also be dangerous. As we head into fall, this week we’ll review best practices for building a safe and lovely fire in your wood-burning fireplace. Continue reading →
Firescreens are essential fireplace accessories that add both beauty and safety to your home. Today, we’ll look at their long and noble history. Continue reading →
If you’re like us and you enjoy decorating your mantel for every occasion, chances are you’re arranging images of leprechauns, shamrocks, and pots of gold right about now. This week we’ll look at the meaning of these familiar Saint Patrick’s Day symbols. Continue reading →
At Old World Stoneworks, many of our favorite places are in the Old World. That is, Europe. And our most favorite places of all? We name our mantels after those special spots. Continue reading →
Most people have probably never considered the finer differences between light, neutral colors like buff and cream. This is usually the domain of interior decorators, wedding dress designers, and stationers. But if you’re planning home improvements without the help of a designer, these can be surprisingly important color distinctions. Continue reading →
It’s that gift-giving time of year again when everybody is trying to find just the right thing for friends, family and coworkers. At Old World Stoneworks, we’re always looking for the hottest holiday gifts – that is, those that have to deal with fire. Here are a few ideas for those folks on your gift list who live by their hearths. Continue reading →
Hanukkah, the eight-day Jewish festival of lights, starts December 12 this year. Since Hanukkah has so many fascinating connections to fire – and at Old World Stoneworks, fire is our specialty – this week we’ll delve into this cultural and religious celebration. Continue reading →
At Old World Stoneworks, Thanksgiving is one of our favorite holidays. It has everything – great food, time spent with family and friends, a focus on gratitude, and the chance to light one of the year’s first fires. The challenge of a successful Thanksgiving is to balance the comfort of the guests with the stress level of hosts and hostesses. We hope these tips will make for a happier, more harmonious holiday in your household. Continue reading →
Flower Mound is a friendly Texan town northwest of Dallas. Home to more than 165 species of wildflowers, it has the distinction of being ranked number two on financial site NerdWallet’s list of best place for young families in Texas. Flower Mound is also home to a remarkable wedding chapel; Aristide Estate featuring one of our cast stone fireplace mantels. Continue reading →
Are you planning family get-togethers for Thanksgiving and Christmas? Do you want family and friends to see your house at its most beautiful while you entertain? Then now is the time to upgrade your fireplace mantel or range hood. At Old World Stoneworks, nothing makes us happier than festive occasions in our customer’s homes. And we know the top two places families like to gather: In front of the fireplace, or in the kitchen near the range hood. Give us a call today and we’ll make sure you have the home of your dreams before the relatives arrive. Continue reading →
It’s something of a mystery how wild wolves evolved into the loyal dogs who share our homes today. As National Geographic has put it, the evolution of dog/human relations has been more about survival of the friendliest, rather than survival of the fittest. Some time long ago, a bold yet friendly wolf must have hung around a caveman long enough to start to form a bond. In the next 15,000 years, friendly wolves slowly developed into the labs and setters, the goldendoodles and chiweenies, we so love today. Continue reading →
Many people embrace an urban, minimalist look these days. But overmantels have a rich tradition of elaborately complementing a fireplace. Today we’ll look at the history of these works of art. Continue reading →
“What is this beauty right here?” Those are the words we’ve been waiting to hear all season, spoken by This Old House host Kevin O’Connor as he admires our Normandy mantel surround. If you’re as proud of what you make as we are, then you’ll understand our elevated heart rate and the shiver down our spine. Continue reading →
As the 37th season of the PBS show This Old House slowly comes to a close, the Arlington Estate reaches a turning point. This week, some of the finishing touches get added. Check out the progress so far and see what exciting new developments are taking shape! Continue reading →
We hope you’ve had a great start to the New Year. At Old World Stoneworks, we’d like to suggest that you make 2017 the Year of the Mantel! Isn’t it time you installed the beautiful new mantel you and your home deserve? If you want to join us in making 2017 a year of home upgrades and overall beautification, contact us today. We are standing by, ready to serve your needs. Continue reading →
Did you know the tradition of making New Year’s resolutions dates all the way back to the ancient Babylonians? According to the History Channel website, their promises centered on repaying debts and returning borrowed objects. Commendable, indeed. Continue reading →
2016 has been a fantastic year for Old World Stoneworks. We’ve had the opportunity to install some of our favorite projects, as well as continue to spread the message of our fine craftsmanship through our new website and even on television. For that and our continued success, Old World Stoneworks wants to extend a special thanks to all our customers (past, present and future) and wish you all a happy holidays and a fantastic new year. Continue reading →
