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Rock Gardens: The Comeback

A rockery revival is under way

A new generation of gardeners, inspired by social media, are buying boulders to create rock gardens.

Until recently rockeries had been written off as an old-fashioned idea. However, Monty Don, the well-known gardener and presenter of Gardeners’ World, recently expressed his own desire to create a rockery in his garden. 

Other garden retailers and designers are also reporting the comeback. Rock Gardens are viewed as low maintenance and offer a welcoming home for wildlife.

Here are a few reasons why we predict rock gardens will be making a comeback:

  • They are relatively low-maintenance; which is very appealing to busy homeowners who want to enjoy their gardens without a lot of work 
  • They can be used to create a variety of different looks; from formal to informal. This makes them a versatile garden feature that can be adapted to any space.
  • They can provide several different habitats in a small area. A rock can be placed so that sun-loving plants make the most of its sunny face whilst shade-tolerant plants can nestle in its shadow.
  • The rise of social media has played a large role in the resurgence of rockeries. People are now finding images of beautiful rockeries on Instagram and Pinterest and being inspired to create them in their own gardens.

How to create a rockery in your garden

If you’re thinking about creating a rockery in your garden, here are a few tips:

  1. Choose a location that gets full sun for most of the day. Rockeries need plenty of sunlight to thrive.
  2. Prepare the soil by adding sand and gravel to improve drainage. Rockeries need well-draining soil to prevent the roots of the plants from rotting.
  3. Source a good quality stone type in a range of sizes.
  4. Create a layered effect with your stone as this will create a more natural look and stop it from becoming top-heavy.
  5. Plant a variety of plants that are well-suited to the conditions of a rockery.
  6. Water regularly until the plants are established. Once the plants are established, you can reduce watering to once or twice a week.
  7. Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

With a little planning and effort, you can create a rockery that will add beauty and interest to your garden for years to come.

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Contact Hanbeck Natural Stone today to discuss your rockery garden project.
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Working with a Local Quarry

If you’re a builder in Lincolnshire or the surrounding counties, you will know that there are a lot of great limestone suppliers in the area. Read on if you are looking to work with a local quarry for a new project.

If you want to find a company that offers high-quality stone, competitive prices and excellent customer service then you have come to the right place! Read more about our mission here.

Hanbeck Natural Stone is a local quarry that has been supplying natural stone to builders across the country for over 12 years. We’d be happy to give you a site visit and show you around our quarry. 

What are the benefits of working with a local quarry:

  • Supporting the local economy: Working with a local quarry helps support the surrounding economy by providing jobs and stimulating trade. Smaller quarries will use businesses in the same county for supplies, which further benefits the area.
  • Flexibility: Local quarries are often more flexible than their larger, national counterparts. This is because they are not as constrained by policies and procedures. As a result, they are more likely to be able to accommodate special requests from customers.
  • Competitive prices: Local quarries can often offer more competitive prices because they don’t have the same import costs as larger, national suppliers. This is because the stone will have to travel a shorter distance to get to your project site.
  • Low carbon footprint: Working with a local quarry can help you reduce your project’s carbon footprint. This is because the stone will have to travel a shorter distance to get to your project site. This can help you meet your sustainability goals and reduce your environmental impact.
  • Site visits: Local quarries are often happy to arrange site visits so that you can see the stone firsthand. This gives you the opportunity to appreciate the journey the product goes on and to ensure that you are getting the right stone for your project.

If you’re interested in learning more about how Hanbeck Natural Stone can help you with your project, please contact us today. We’re confident that you’ll be happy with our products, our prices, and our customer service.

Be sure to follow us on both our Facebook and Instagram pages to keep updated on what we are working on.

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Contact us today to learn more about the benefits of working with a local quarry for your natural stone project.
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The 140th Sandringham Flower Show

Sandringham Flower Show 2023

Natural stone was a key feature at the Sandringham Flower Show. Read on to find out about the garden trends we noticed for the coming year.

We attended the 140th Sandringham Flower Show on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, in the beautiful grounds of Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, England. The show is one of the most prestigious horticultural events in the UK, and this year’s event did not disappoint. We were delighted to witness all the new trends coming through in garden design.

One of the running themes was the focus on natural elements and materials, as well as the use of natural stone in your garden. Natural stone set the foundation to the design of each of the show gardens. We saw gravel gardens (or as we like to call them, limestone chippings gardens), stone patios, stepping stone footpaths, and stone borders to frame water features.

We were also pleased to see the variety of plants and flowers on display as well as new and interesting ways for them to be used in the garden to help accentuate the hard and soft elements. 

The Sandringham Flower Show is a great way to enjoy the beauty of nature and learn about the latest trends in gardening and landscaping. 

If you’re looking for ways to update your garden, consider using natural stone. It’s a timeless material that can add value to your home and make your garden a more inviting space.

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To learn more about how you can use natural stone in your garden, visit the Hanbeck Stone website or contact us today. We would be happy to help you find the perfect stone for your needs.
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Limestone Masonry Dressings

Elegance and sophistication are added to any home by limestone masonry dressings. They also protect homes from the elements, making them more durable.

House builders have used limestone, a natural stone, for centuries to create a variety of architectural details, including quoins, copings, and cills. This is because limestone is durable and versatile, and can be dressed to create a variety of shapes and finishes.

In house building, stone masonry dressings are often used to create windows, doors, and other features. Some of the most common elements of stone masonry dressing for house building include:

  • Heads: The heads of windows and doors are the topmost parts of the openings. They are typically dressed to a smooth finish but can be decorated with patterns or carvings.
  • Cills: The cills are the bottommost parts of windows and doors. They are typically dressed to a level surface and may be made of a different type of stone than the rest of the opening.
  • Mullions: Mullions are the vertical members that divide windows and doors into separate panes. 
  • Jambs: The jambs are the vertical members that frame windows and doors. 
  • Quoins: Quoins are the corner stones of a building. They have a smooth finish.

Limestone masonry dressings can be used on both new and old homes. They can be used to add a touch of character to a traditional home, or to create a more modern look.

If you are considering using limestone masonry dressings in your home, there are a few things you should keep in mind. 

First, you will need to choose the right type of limestone. Some types of limestone are more susceptible to weathering than others. 

Hanbeck Natural Stone limestone is a great choice for exterior applications because:

  • It is a type of oolite limestone, which is a very dense and hard limestone.
  • It has a high calcium carbonate content, which makes it resistant to weathering.
  • Due to its density and low porosity, it is not easily penetrated by water and therefore, maintains colour considerably longer than more porous stones 
  • It has a consistent colour and texture, which makes it a good choice for architectural applications.

Second, you will need to choose the right finish for your dressings. The finish will affect the overall look of your home and the way it weathers over time. By speaking to our Quarry Director you will be able to share your vision and receive the best advice unique to your project and desired look.  

Here are some additional benefits of using limestone masonry dressings in house building:

  • Limestone is a sustainable material that is quarried from the earth.
  • Limestone is a recyclable material that can be reused at the end of its lifespan.
  • Limestone is a low-maintenance material that requires little upkeep.

 

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If your'e considering using limestone masonry dressings for your home building project if you are looking for a durable, versatile, and sustainable material. They are a timeless classic that will add beauty and value to your home for years to come.
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Garden Crazy Paving

crazy paving stands out as a bold and interesting choice

In this blog post, we will delve into the art of laying crazy paving and explore its various applications.

When it comes to paving options, crazy paving stands out as a bold and interesting choice. With its irregular shapes, it creates interesting patterns when laid. Crazy paving adds a touch of fun to any outdoor space and offers endless possibilities for unique and eye-catching designs.

What is Crazy Paving?

Crazy paving, also known as random paving, is a method of using irregularly shaped stones to create a mosaic-like pattern. The term “crazy” originates from the unconventional and asymmetrical layout of the stones. While traditional paving relies on uniform shapes and sizes, crazy paving embraces the beauty of irregularity. This unconventional approach allows for limitless creativity and customisation.

Patios and Outdoor Areas: Create a stunning patio or outdoor living space using crazy paving to add charm to your garden. Combine it with complementary furniture and accessories for a summer-time look.

Pathways and Walkways: Whether leading to your front door or meandering through a garden, crazy paving adds an interesting touch to these functional areas. 

Pool Surrounds: Upgrade the poolside area by surrounding it with crazy paving. The textured and non-slip surface enhances safety while providing a pleasing look. 

Feature Walls and Accents: Extend the use of crazy paving beyond the ground by incorporating it into vertical surfaces. Create feature walls, raised flower beds, or even unique steps using the irregular stones.

Garden Borders and Edging: Add a touch of creativity to your garden borders and edging by using crazy paving. The irregular shapes blend with surrounding foliage, creating a natural and artistic transition between different areas.

Driveways : Make a bold statement with a crazy paving driveway . The unconventional patterns and striking designs create a welcoming entrance to your property, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.

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If you are looking to incorporate crazy paving this year then get in touch so we can provide you with a sample and a quote.
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Garden Stone Steps and Footpaths

Step out of your home and into a garden you love.

Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast, planning to engage a professional landscaper, have a large or small garden… this summer presents the perfect opportunity to transform your outdoor space into your dream country garden. 

At Hanbeck Natural Stone, we believe that every outdoor space deserves a touch of beauty mixed with functionality and that with small changes you make your garden a dream come true.

Why should I use Limestone? 

Limestone has soft, muted tones that blend effortlessly with the surrounding greenery, imparting a sense of calm and natural beauty into a space.

Limestone is known for its exceptional durability, making it an ideal choice for steps and footpaths. Its robust nature allows it to withstand heavy foot traffic and varying weather conditions, ensuring longevity and minimal maintenance. Safety is paramount, especially when it comes to outdoor surfaces. Limestone’s naturally textured surface provides excellent traction, reducing the risk of slips and falls even during wet or damp weather.

If you want to add a country garden feel into your outdoor space this year, you can do so very easily with steps and footpaths; no matter the size of your space.

1. Footpaths can be used for many things depending on the size of the space…

Imagine strolling through your garden on a sunny Sunday morning, steered by a limestone footpath with stepping stones guiding each step.  Adding stepping stones can allow you to take a journey from the main footpath, perhaps leading you to a shed or greenhouse.

A simple limestone gravel footpath can be your route straight to the end of the garden where the sun lies to drink your cup of tea or enjoy that BBQ with friends. 

No matter the size, as you stroll along the footpath, notice the gentle crunch beneath your feet and the delicate flower bursting with vibrant colours and fragrances. 

2.  Steps can help bridge the gap between levels in your garden or simply add an interesting feature. 

If you have a multi-level garden, allow it to stay true to its charming style by adding limestone steps to guide you from one level to another. 

With their inherent earthy tones and weathered appearance, limestone steps merge with the country garden ambiance, adding an authentic touch to the landscape.

Perhaps you just want to add an eye-catching design feature or a focal point within the garden. By incorporating different materials such as stone, they become artistic elements that enhance the aesthetics and uniqueness of your space. 

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We invite you to unlock your garden's potential and think outside the box this year. For any questions about using Limestone for your garden get in touch with us today.
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Chelsea Flower Show 2023

Chelsea Flower Show 2023

As the Chelsea Flower Show approaches, landscapers and designers are preparing to showcase their latest and greatest garden designs.

As the excitement builds for the upcoming Chelsea Flower Show, it’s worth exploring how to incorporate limestone into garden designs, in line with the top 10 garden design trends for 2023 identified by HouseBeautiful.

Limestone is a natural product that lends itself beautifully to garden design, and garden designers are increasingly using it to create stunning installations that showcase the material’s versatility and timeless appeal. This will be evident at the upcoming Chelsea Flower Show, where we can expect to see many examples of limestone being used in innovative and creative ways.

 

Hanbeck Natural Stone is a leading supplier of limestone products that are perfect for garden design. We work closely with landscapers to ensure that our products meet the needs of each individual project. Limestone is a key element in many garden designs, and we are proud to provide the highest quality products to help create stunning and timeless outdoor spaces.

Here are some of the best ways to implement limestone as a natural product within the garden based on these trends:

Outdoor living spaces

By using limestone, outdoor living spaces such as patios, seating areas, and fire pits can be created that blend seamlessly with the garden environment. This creates a cohesive and inviting outdoor space.

Wildlife gardens

Limestone can be used to create wildlife-friendly features such as rockeries and nesting sites. Limestone provides a natural habitat for insects and other wildlife, helping to support the biodiversity of the garden.

Water features

Water features such as fountains and waterfalls can be created with limestone, thanks to its porous nature. This allows the water to be absorbed, creating a natural-looking feature that blends seamlessly with the garden.

Vertical garden

Limestone walls can be used to create vertical gardens that feature a striking contrast between the plants and the structure of the wall. This contrast is created by using limestone as a backdrop, which allows the plants to stand out.

 

Limestone comes in a range of earthy colours, making it an ideal material to use in garden design. Incorporating limestone paving or walling into a garden can provide a natural and understated backdrop that complements the earthy colours of the plants and other materials used in the design.

Limestone is a sustainable material that is environmentally friendly and long-lasting. Using limestone in garden design can reduce the impact of the project on the environment while also creating a beautiful and durable space.

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Are you looking to add some stone features to your garden this summer? Contact us here to speak to our team and see how we can help you achieve your dream garden!
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Norwich Cathedral

Our work with NORWICH cathedral

Norwich Cathedral is a magnificent structure that has been around for centuries. It is one of the most important examples of Norman architecture in England, and it has undergone many restorations and damage repairs over its many years standing. Hanbeck Natural Stone is proud to say that they were able to take part in one of those repairs. The new limestone was carefully matched to the original, and the repair work was carried out using traditional methods.

We are honoured to have been chosen to supply the stone for Norwich Cathedral’s new Hostry.

The new Hostry stands in the space where the original Hostry was built, and its main purpose is to allow people to come together as a community.

The Cathedral’s history will be prominently featured, and visitors will be warmly welcomed in the Benedictine spirit of hospitality.

We are proud to have supplied the Lincolnshire Limestone that will help to make the Cathedral’s new space a reality.

The Hostry is a multi-purpose space that was completed in 2009 after an 11 year building project – the largest at the Cathedral for 900 years.

Partially funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Hostry is used for exhibitions, educational programmes, and community events.

The Bowerbank Room is perfect for school groups, while the Weston Room can accommodate up to 150 people for a variety of functions.

The Exhibition Space is an open plan area that is used for visiting exhibitions within the hostry, and The Song School is the rehearsal space for the Cathedral Choirs, though it is also used for individual music lessons and small recitals.

With its modern facilities and rich history, the Hostry is a welcome addition to Norwich Cathedral for the community.

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If you are looking for a top quality stone product, then please get in touch with our team.
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Supporting Self Builders

WORKING WITH SELF BUILDERS TO AID THEIR PROJECT.

Hanbeck Stone is a family-run business that has been working with natural stone for over 25 years. The industry has evolved as technology has changed. Today, we are proud to work with self builders who want to take on the challenge of creating their dream home. We love getting to be a part of that process and helping them bring their vision to life.

There are a few things that we do in order to make sure that the process goes as smoothly as possible for everyone involved:

  • One of the main things is communication. We keep in contact with our clients throughout the entire process as well as giving any advice needed along the way to ensure they get the best build and experience with us. We also work closely with any other professionals who may be working on the build.
  • We love helping self builders utilise the beautiful material of Natural Stone in their projects. Hanbeck Stone has many years of experience not only in quarrying but in the house building industry. We put a lot of care into producing our stone, meaning that you can be assured of our quality and expertise.
  • We pride ourselves on being able to advise you on the best way to use natural stone, and we are always happy to answer any questions that you may have. Natural stone is an incredibly versatile material, and Hanbeck Stone can help you to create a truly unique look for your self build.

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We hope that this blog post has given you a little insight into how we work with self-builders. If you have any questions at all, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us – we’d be more than happy to help!
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Lincoln Cathedral

Our work with lincoln cathedral

Masonry is an age-old craft that has been passed down through the centuries; At its heart, it is about creating something beautiful and enduring from natural materials and something Hanbeck Natural Stone specialises in.

Our stone is prime masonry grade material and due to this we are proud to have been involved in the continued restorations at Lincoln Cathedral, one of the most iconic buildings in England. It’s one of the most significant and imposing cathedrals in the UK, with a long and fascinating history.  We are thrilled to have played a part in its creation, and we hope that you enjoy looking at it as much as we enjoyed being involved.

A project we are particularly proud to be involved with was the ‘Blessed Virgin Mary of Lincoln’ which was dedicated in Lincoln Cathedral by the Rt Revd Christopher Lowson, Bishop of Lincoln on 31st May 2014. 

Icon Carver Aidan Hart created this 7ft tall, stone carving of the Christ and the Virgin Mary from a single block of Lincolnshire Limestone, of which we were honoured to donate.

‘Mary’ is one of the largest works commissioned by the Dean and Chapter since The Reformation in the 1500’s. 

If you find yourself visiting Lincoln and the Cathedral then you will find the sculpture sitting in a chapel at the East End of the Cathedral, looking down the length of the magnificent South Aisle.

Blessed Virgin Mary of Lincoln

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If you are working on a masonry project or simply just require a quality stone product, then please get in touch with our team.