Tech Meets Tradition

The Evolution of Stonemasonry at stoneCIRCLE

stoneCIRCLE tradition in stonemasonry - photo Marco Joe Fazio
 

Bridging the Past and the Future

Stonemasonry is one of the world’s oldest trades, shaping civilisations from the pyramids of Egypt to the cathedrals of Europe. At stoneCIRCLE, we honour this heritage while embracing today's most advanced technology.

 

As you walk through our factory, you’ll witness the seamless collaboration of old and new—from the rhythmic chisel strokes of a master mason to the hum of a CNC machine executing precision cuts. This harmony between tradition and innovation defines our approach, ensuring that every piece we create is as durable as beautiful.

 

The Tools of Time: Craftsmanship That Endures

Before the era of computer-aided precision, stonemasons relied entirely on hand tools to carve intricate details and smooth surfaces. Even today, the final touch on every stone piece at stoneCIRCLE is done by hand, ensuring the highest level of detail and craftsmanship.

A perfect example of this is our Jenny Lind polishing machine, one of the oldest in the industry. Unlike modern automated polishers, the Jenny Lind requires a craftsman’s skilled guidance to bring out the natural beauty of the stone. This machine has stood the test of time, much like the stone it polishes, symbolising durability and mastery.

the Jenny Lind polishing machine, our oldest piece of equipment still in use today

 

Precision Meets Passion: CNC and Waterjet Technology

Although tradition remains central to our work, innovation has driven us forward. Our CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines enable us to achieve precision levels that would be impossible by hand alone. Whether it involves intricate inlays, curved surfaces, or complex geometries, our CNC technology guarantees accuracy down to the millimetre.

5-axis CNC machine at work

craftsmanship at stoneCIRCLE

waterjet cutting machine

Alongside CNC, our waterjet cutting technology allows us to carve through even the hardest stones with fine detail, making it ideal for bespoke designs and high-end architectural applications.  However, despite these technological advancements, the human eye and expert touch remain vital—every piece is finished and quality-checked by our skilled masons.

 

Sustainability Through Innovation

Beyond precision and artistry, technology also contributes to making our operations more sustainable. Our water recycling system enables us to be nearly self-sufficient in water usage, while our solar panels generate 40 kWh of clean energy to power our machines. Additionally, surplus stone from production is crushed and repurposed, minimising waste.

40 kWh of energy generated by our solar panels, 72,000 litres recycling water tank in our yard

crushed and repurposed stone at stoneCIRCLE - photo Marco Joe Fazio

minimal waste through crushed and repurposed surplus stone

 

Where Craftsmanship and Innovation Converge

At stoneCIRCLE, technology enhances tradition—it doesn’t replace it. Every project we undertake, whether it’s a luxury interior, a public monument, or a bespoke work of art, is a testament to the expertise of our craftsmen and the power of modern engineering.

By blending age-old techniques with cutting-edge technology, we ensure that every piece of stone we shape today will endure the test of time—just as it has for centuries.

 
tradition in stonemasonry at stoneCIRCLE - photo Marco Joe Fazio
craftsmanship at stoneCIRCLE - photo Marco Joe Fazio
 
Marco Fazio

Marco Joe Fazio is Chief Creative Officer and Director of Photography at space+style™ by Marco Joe Fazio Ltd, where he leads visual storytelling, photography, cinematography and content strategy for clients across hospitality, food & drink, fashion, architecture and design.

Born and raised in Tuscany, Italy, Marco discovered photography at an early age through traditional film and darkroom printing. Before becoming a full-time photographer, he spent two decades working in architecture, interior architecture and lighting design, founding an award-winning practice and leading multidisciplinary teams on projects for international fashion brands.

After moving to London in 2008, Marco became a Chartered Architect with the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), combining his architectural background with a distinctive photographic approach that connects people, spaces and brands through visual storytelling.

His work has been recognised with the Fellowship of the British Institute of Professional Photography (FBIPP), together with the prestigious Peter Grugeon Award for Best Fellowship of the Year in 2016. He is also a member of the Association of Photographers (AOP).

Today, Marco specialises in creating strategic visual content for luxury hospitality, boutique hotels, restaurants, drinks brands, interior designers and manufacturers. His work combines commercial photography, cinematography and brand storytelling to help businesses communicate their expertise, craftsmanship and identity through compelling visual narratives.

Alongside his visual practice, Marco brings more than a decade of experience in music composition and sound engineering, enabling him to create bespoke soundtracks and immersive sound design that complement his film productions.

Education and mentoring remain central to his professional practice. He founded the telling [fashion] stories workshop series and lectures in photography and visual communication at London South Bank University (LSBU), supporting the next generation of creative professionals.

The combination of architecture, photography, filmmaking and music gives Marco a distinctive multidisciplinary perspective, allowing him to create work that is visually refined, emotionally engaging and strategically aligned with each client's brand.

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Crafting Excellence