Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of projects do you take on?
Norton Stoneworks specializes in dry stone walls and site-specific work in stone. Some projects carry on the tradition of dry stone walling. Others use those same materials and techniques in more creative or sculptural ways.
We’re especially interested in thoughtful projects where stone can become an integral part of the landscape.
Do you design your own work?
Often, but not always. Some projects begin with a design from a landscape architect or designer. Others begin with a conversation, a problem to solve, or a loose idea that we develop together.
We enjoy both approaches and are particularly interested in projects that leave room for collaboration and exploration.
Can I come to you with an idea rather than a finished design?
Absolutely. In fact, some of the most interesting projects begin that way.
You might know that you need a wall, an entrance, a gathering place, or something in the landscape, without knowing exactly what it should look like. We can help explore what the project might become.
Do you build traditional dry stone walls?
Yes. Traditional dry stone walling remains at the heart of the practice.
We build new walls and rebuild old ones using traditional techniques, with particular attention to how a wall relates to the land, architecture, and history of a place.
Do you create sculpture and public art?
Yes. Our work increasingly includes sculptural and public projects that explore what can be created through the materials, techniques, and language of dry stone walling.
Some are commissioned works. Others begin as proposals, studies, or experiments developed independently in the studio.
Do you work with landscape architects, architects, and designers?
Yes. We regularly collaborate with landscape architects, architects, designers, builders, and other craftspeople.
We can become involved early in the design process or join a project once the larger landscape or architectural direction has already been established.
Where do you work?
We’re based in Brunswick, Maine, and work throughout the state.
We happily travel anywhere for the right projects. Travel projects generally need to be substantial enough to make the additional logistics worthwhile.
How much does a project cost?
Every project is different. Cost depends on scale, site conditions, stone, access, travel, design complexity, and the amount of time involved.
Small, straightforward projects may require only a few days of work, while larger landscape and sculptural projects can unfold over weeks, months, or years. Once we understand what you're considering, we can usually provide an early sense of scale and budget before getting too far into the process.
What is dry stone walling?
Dry stone walls are built without mortar. Individual stones are carefully selected and placed so that their weight, shape, and relationship to one another create a stable structure.
It is an old building tradition, but not a limiting one. The same principles used to build traditional field walls can also be used to explore arches, curves, enclosures, sculptural forms, and other contemporary work.
How long will a dry stone wall last?
A well-built dry stone wall can last for generations.
Because the wall is flexible and drains naturally, it can respond to frost and movement in the ground without the cracking associated with rigid masonry.
Do you repair or rebuild existing stone walls?
Yes, selectively. We enjoy working with old walls, particularly when they are an important part of a property's landscape or history.
Sometimes that means carefully rebuilding a failing section. Other times an existing wall can become the starting point for something new.
How do I start a project?
Send us a note through the contact page with a little about the property and what you're considering. Photos, drawings, inspiration images, or even a rough idea are all useful.
You don't need to have everything figured out before getting in touch.