3 Benefits of Choosing the Ashlar Pattern

There are five different patterns to choose from when selecting natural stone veneer for your project: Mosaic, Strip, Ledgestone, Roughly Square & Rectangle, and Ashlar. Each has its own variation and appeal, however, only one, the Ashlar pattern, brings three of the other patterns together for a more customizable look. You get the best of three different patterns: 50% Strip (rectangular pieces), 25% Ledgestone, and 25% Small Squares. The combination adds flexibility and new opportunities for masons to create designs that add different textures, colors, and shapes. Here is a closer look at how the Ashlar pattern can enhance your natural stone project. 

Fireplace featuring Harbor Mist Ashlar by Granite State Stonescapes. 

1. Add Texture to Your Project

While each piece of natural stone veneer can vary in texture, the mix of patterns highlights this aspect even more. The Ashlar stone is cut from the end grain (the inside) of the stone, which looks and feels different than the face. Because this pattern is cut against the grain, the process creates ridging and a rougher texture. Patterns that utilize the stone face like the Roughly Squares and Rectangles or Strip patterns have a more consistent color and texture. The Ashlar pattern is a great alternative if you like those shapes and want to combine them with a more textured look. 

Montauk Blend Ashlar Interior Fireplace by Deluca Masonry.

2. Extend the Color Range of the Natural Stone Collection

In addition to the patterns that utilize the stone face the Ashlar pattern offers a wider range of colors. Similar to how the texture varies based on the pattern, the colors inside can be different than the ones visible in the stone face.  Each collection has a different color variation between the face and the end grain, but the extended color range is an asset and one of the reasons the pattern is a popular choice. 

Colonial Tan Ashlar Interior Fireplace by Fougere Landscaping with Material from Site One/Landscape Depot.

3. More Shapes to Blend for a Customized Look

We often talk about the many possibilities for natural stone application, and how the skilled craftsmanship of a mason brings them to life. Even though pieces vary in size and shape within each main pattern, the Ashlar pattern offers the versatility of three different shapes, and the design and layout brings them together for a unique look. When you combine the individual shapes--the clean, modern look of the Small Squares, the Ledge pieces that are usually dry stacked, and the Strip look that is the most similar to brick--the mason is able to fit the pieces together like a puzzle, creating a one of a kind design. The project above showcases how the different shapes can be included together to create a unique look.

Choosing the Ashlar pattern combines the shapes of three main patterns and allows for more personalization in every way. By expanding the range of the existing colors, textures, and shapes, you can create a whole new look without having to create your own custom blend. This can help make the natural stone selection process easier, and it also results in a stunning finished product! For more natural stone inspiration, download our catalog.