Meet Stone Source: Crafting Excellence in Stone for Over 20 Years
For over two decades, Stone Source has been a beacon of quality and craftsmanship in the stone industry. Founded by Lenny Lome, Stone Source is his second multi-decade venture, following the success of Stogie's on Grand, a beloved St. Paul institution. Lenny's transition into the stone business was fueled by a passion for an industry where family relationships play a crucial role. This natural progression led to the establishment of direct relationships with quarries and plants worldwide.
Having found a passion for an importing industry in which family relationships are key, the segue into stone came naturally. To accomplish this, Stone Source forges direct relationships with quarries and plants around the world. “We import stone directly from Italy, Portugal, Spain, France, India, Israel, Egypt, Turkey, China, Mexico, Brazil, Peru, and Argentina. Working directly with our vendors allows us to offer unique lines of stone for countertops, tiles, and mosaics,” shares Kari Zylla, Senior Project Design Manager at Stone Source.
From its humble beginnings as a small stone importer, Stone Source has evolved into a full-service company. Today, it boasts in-house design, fabrication, and installation teams, all dedicated to creating beautiful spaces for their clients.
What sets Stone Source apart is its comprehensive approach to client projects. From the initial consultation to the final installation, Stone Source ensures a seamless experience. “Stone Source has clients covered from the beginning to the end of the project,” Zylla says. “By being in constant communication with the fabrication and installation teams, our in-house design team assists clients in finding their 'passion stone' and ensures that the project goes smoothly by being there throughout the process, from stone selection to final installation.”
Unmatched Uniqueness
“We import the most exclusive stone from around the world found in the Twin Cities; there's nothing 'cookie cutter' about our slabs. With over 200 natural stone slabs to choose from, clients are always surprised at what the Earth can create,” Zylla explains. “What's huge is that our clients only have to pay for the square footage that they need to use for their project. As an importer, fabricator, and installer, we also have the unique opportunity to reuse any partial slabs for other projects that are from the same bundle that came in directly from the quarry; our clients are not forced into purchasing a full slab. This means we can choose various stone for different projects throughout the house and opens a world of possibilities for creating a beautiful home.”
With a background in Art History from The University of London and extensive experience in the art, architecture, and design worlds, Zylla brings a unique perspective to Stone Source’s success. “I've always had a love of design since I was young, which drove me to get a Master's in Art History from The University of London, with a focus in architecture and design. Having lived in multiple countries over the years and ultimately landing in Brooklyn, NYC for 17 years, I've lucked out being able to experience so much of what the art, architecture, and design worlds have to offer. That passion lends itself well to making sure that my clients are excited about the stone that they choose and will love for many years to come.”
Trends and Innovations
In the ever-evolving world of stone design, Stone Source is always on the lookout for unique and exciting trends. “I'm excited anytime a client walks in and is looking for something out-of-the-box for their space. It really is a unique experience to turn the corner of the showroom and take in some absolutely wild slabs. I'm definitely seeing more people wanting to create different spaces versus the standard gray and white that we've seen for the last 10 years or so,” Zylla states.
Stone Source X Pillsbury Castle Project
Stone Source is a major player in the ASID Design Home in partnership with NARI. “Stone Source is providing the stone selections throughout the home for almost all of the rooms; this includes, not only countertops, but full-wall showers, integrated sinks, and tabletops,” Zylla says
The scope of their involvement is extensive, covering almost every room from the basement to the third floor, including:
Speakeasy
Lower Level
Candy Closet
Catering Kitchen & Bar
Music Room Powder Room
Peacock Lounge
Entry Tables
2nd Floor Powder Room
Kids’ Bathroom
Guest Bathroom 1
Primary Bathroom
Guest Bathroom 2
Guest Bathroom 3
3rd Floor Family Lounge
Apartment
You can see all of Stone Source’s spectacular stone throughout the Pillsbury Castle for yourself on the tour July 12-28! Get your tickets today here.
For more information about Stone Source, visit their website and follow them on Instagram.