At Coverings 2024, we honored 21 outstanding projects that demonstrated spectacular craftsmanship and creativity in the use of tile and stone. This week we’re spotlighting the 2024 Special Recognition CID Award winner for Special Recognition: Artistic Excellence in Natural Stone.
Project: Orchestra Foyer
Designer: Dragonfly Tile & Stone Works, Inc.
Location: Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
The client wanted an artisan foyer floor inspired by their love for the performing arts, especially music. The “Apres Party” theme depicted musicians setting down their instruments after performances. The project encompassed designing, selecting materials, crafting, and installing custom artisan features alongside marble for the floor.
Creating realistic perspectives for the inlays was challenging, involving photography, hand drawings, and precise templating. With 30 years of experience, the entrant streamlined the process for efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Material selection carefully considered red and green onyx, marble, granite, limestone, brass, and porcelain. Some materials, such as Michael Angelo marble, true red onyx, and harvested green onyx, are nearly unobtainable now.
Placing delicate artisan features in fragile marble requires meticulous planning and stability testing. Hand-cutting and pre-mounting all inlays were crucial steps, using approved techniques. Waterjet cutting ensured smooth and precise field installation. The final installation, completed in one day, demanded meticulous transport and coordination with partners to preserve the intricate craftsmanship.
The project, Orchestra Foyer by Dragonfly Tile & Stone Works, Inc., transformed the space into a stunning reflection of artistic passion and craftsmanship.
Do you have a recently completed project that features innovative design and installation of tile & stone? Consider entering it into the 2025 CID Awards – the portal opens this fall!