Project Snapshot
Why Thin Schist Veneer Was Required
On this steep, multi-level development, solid stone was not viable due to weight, handling, and buildability constraints. The architectural brief still required a natural schist façade with depth and visible strata.
Thin schist veneer was selected as the only practical way to achieve the required aesthetic while maintaining programme certainty.
Systemised Installation at Scale
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If you’re working on a steep or complex site, we can advise whether thin schist veneer is the correct approach.
Delivered at Scale
Installation was carried out by a coordinated team of 10–15 stonemasons, enabling significant areas to be completed each day without risk of collapse.
Many smaller stonemason companies were approached but could not scale to meet the developer’s programme requirements.
Stone Selection
Dark Grey Queenstown schist was selected for its strong horizontal bedding and natural layers of white strata, delivering architectural depth and consistency across the development.
The thin veneer format allowed this aesthetic to be maintained across multiple buildings and elevations on a steep site.
Health & Safety & Site Logistics
Stone was supplied in purpose-built packaging designed to be safely craned across the site, supporting efficient handling on steep terrain.
By contrast, plastic-wrapped pallets of local schist — commonly seen on other sites — were avoided due to safety risks and poor handling outcomes.
