Imported from Europe, Historic antique German Basalt cobblestone makes an impact!
Our clients are experienced and knowledgeable European travelers. On their many trips to Europe, they fell in love with the quaint cobblestone streets. The many varieties of stone types found in Europe include granite, porphyry, sandstone and basalt. Their dream was to have an authentic antique reclaimed European cobblestone driveway to complement their beautiful home in Missouri. And, although we have over 20 years of experience importing a beautiful array of old-world cobbles, none of our current cobblestone stock from our Historic European Cobblestone collection were just the right colors they were seeking. They desired a darker, consistent color that we knew was either in the porphyry or basalt family of stones. The search was on!
Our process involved not just reaching out to our sources all over western Europe, but then sharing with our clients all the possibilities with photos. We found several interesting options. The list was narrowed down, more images submitted in both dry and wet conditions, mock-ups created, and finally actual cobblestone samples were submitted.
Then finally, the perfect match – a reclaimed antique basalt cobblestone from Germany was located, mockups approved, and several cobbles were shipped for inspection before the order was placed. In addition to the specific color request, the project required cobbles reduced to a 2” thick height for setting on a mortar base with grouted joints. We often saw-cut antique cobbles for this type of installation. Our facility in Europe will saw the bottom portion before packaging and shipping. This also saves on shipping costs.
By the time the 10,700 sf order was placed, it was early 2020. Despite the Covid pandemic and its worldwide effect on shipping, we were able to quickly prepare the cobblestone. We then engaged one of the top shippers in the world to safely deliver the 6 containers to the Colemans residence without delays.
We love a challenge, but more than this, we love happy clients who will be reminded of their adventures and enjoy their authentic antique European driveway for the life of their home!
For more images of this project visit our gallery section; “Historic Sidewalk Cobble – Rare Finds” within this website, or at our main website: https://www.monarchstoneinternational.com/gallery/
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