MONUMENTAL STONEWORK

Monumental stonework is almost a lost art. I have kept the tradition alive with the installation of over 3,500,000 lbs. of stonework in locations throughout the world. This has included the careful placement of boulders weighing up to 20 tons apiece.

I practice "dry stone" technique in which mortar is secondary to gravity and fit. This is the most difficult, but structurally sound, method possible. I personally attend to all structurally and sculpturally important details. All mortar joints are either invisible, or carefully disguised. Natural forms and textures are faithfully replicated. The result is a monumental work of art that will endure for generations.

I prefer to use natural rather than artificial materials. The indiscriminate use of fake rocks and plastic plants in theme parks and zoos has resulted in the proliferation of absurd designs that resemble the "set to the Flintstones". Some things, such as plants and rocks, should be real whenever possible. Aside from any other consideration, "letting the materials speak" makes for better art.

In circumstances where the use of artificial stone is structurally or thematically necessary, I am prepared to offer supervisory services to insure the structural and aesthetic integrity of artificial stonework provided by others.

< Aberdeen Marina Club,

Hong Kong, China

Construction of the main falls using slate boulders from China.

Jacksonville Airport Holiday Inn >

The "Great stone Face" is sculpted from fossiliferous limestone and flint. The opposite side of this sculpture features a waterfall facing the atrium restaurant and lounge

< Private Estate

Naturalistic stonework requires an understanding of geological stratigraphy.

And an understanding of erosional processes.
< Ocean Terrace Inn St. Kitts 

The steps lead up to a hidden spa. Rounded stones are very difficult to place without exposing the mortar joints
The Butterfly Rainforest >

Mortar joints should never be visible. This vertical wall is composed of many stones, but all of the joints have been disguised with exposed aggregate or used as planting pockets.
But when it comes to monumental stonework bigger is often better. This enormous boulder almost tipped a thirty ton crane

Royal Islander Resort >

Cancun, Mexico

A balcony view of one of the four falls which face the lobby. Total drop 18 feet. This project was built with the assistance of Mayan Indians whose forefathers have worked with stone for thousands of years. Photo taken prior to completion of the landscape.

< Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, Gainesville, FL

Over 300 tons of stone were used in the construction of the four waterfalls and rapids

Bruce J. Morgan’s design studio >

Archer, FL

A view from the studio window of a mossy chert waterfall. The pool attracts wildlife, and is designed to house a collection of native fish and turtles.