Discovering the Artistic Potential of Natural Stone Through a Fashion Lens
April Graves sees stones not as construction materials, but as art forms.
1From Fashion to Stone: A Designer's Journey
April Graves applies her textile and interior design education, along with experience at Burberry and Duchamp London, to explore the artistic potential of natural stone. Joining Aria Stone Gallery in 2014, she began shaping the company's identity. She views stones not just as surface materials but as design elements with their own character and story.
2An Artistic Approach to Stone Selection
Graves pays attention to color, texture, and craftsmanship in stone selection, much like in the fashion industry. Emphasizing each stone's uniqueness, she searches for original pieces that can inspire designers before they become trends. This approach forms the basis of Aria Stone Gallery's 'buying wild' philosophy.
3Guiding Designers Toward the Unexpected
Aria Stone Gallery encourages designers to experience stones in person. They highlight how large slabs' movement and visual balance can't be appreciated through small samples. This method leads to selecting stones that challenge expectations and stimulate creative thinking.
4New Trends in Natural Stone
Graves identifies the most exciting development in natural stone as the intentional use of remnants and offcuts. Stones traditionally used for countertops and floors now find applications in smaller custom details. This approach creates continuity throughout spaces.
5Rosso Melograno: Story of a Burgundy Marble
Rosso Melograno marble from northwest Italy represents exactly the distinctive material Aria Stone Gallery seeks. While its rarity stands out, its ability to meet the growing interest in warm color palettes is equally notable. Graves believes this stone offers versatile applications in contemporary interiors.
6Redefining Luxury
According to Graves, luxury now relates more to authenticity than excess. Designers and clients increasingly value craftsmanship, provenance, and materials with genuine character. Natural stone is moving beyond traditional applications to become a more intentional part of design narratives.
7A New Perspective on Natural Stone
Graves calls on designers to stop viewing natural stone merely as a surface material. Highlighting each slab's unique history and character, she points to their potential to add personality and memorability to spaces. Aria Stone Gallery believes stones should be regarded as art forms.
8The Future of Natural Stone
April Graves envisions natural stone playing a more central role in architecture and design. This focus on materials' authenticity and stories appears poised to shape the industry's future. Aria Stone Gallery continues to showcase this philosophy at its Dallas gallery and online platforms.