A good design is only complete when you get the finish and colours just right for your project. These choices will set the tone for the area and can determine the success of the project.

Baines Masonry Blocks now takes the risk out of the designing process with a set of tips and online tools developed to support the design and specification processes in your project.

Tips for colour selection

Matching colours

Matching a colour can be difficult, especially if your project has been executed over multiple stages. This can cause colour variances between batches of materials and different brands. Instead of matching colours, opt for a different shade, lighter or darker, which will complement the existing design and create a cohesive look.

Neutral and accent colours

Neutral shades can be a safe choice as they blend well with a wide colour palette and also provide flexibility for future changes. Using accent colours will emphasise particular colours within the stone, which may not be otherwise noticed; for instance, use one of the less dominant colours from the stone or block.

Textures

Different textures can create a point of differentiation in the design. Masonry blocks can have a stone finish, rough split face, or smooth, polished and honed surfaces. For example, when building a smooth wall, have a row of split face blocks run along the second course of blocks to make an otherwise plain wall look striking.

Baines Masonry has also developed online designer tools to help you design your next project. The Masonry Designer Software allows you to select your colour, block and layout, and then produce a digital image of your project. Mix colours and block types for endless design possibilities.

Making a decision on colours and finishes is hard when you’re not sure of the outcome. This program takes the risk out of your design choices.

Baines Masonry has also developed a new Fire & Acoustic Calculator – a simple tool that takes the guesswork out of specification and gives builders, designers and contractors the assurance that they are compliant with industry requirements, thereby, significantly reducing their exposure to liability.