For many years, Cultured Stone has been part of countless innovative and inspiring design projects, and “Shelter for the Storms” is no exception. Designed by Amy Storm, Owner and Principal Designer at Amy Storm & Company, this breathtaking home exemplifies the perfect blend of creative flair and functional elegance. The project is located outside of Chicago and was a collaboration with the Amy Storm & Co team, architecture firm Studio l Architects and Patrick J Murphy Builders, Inc. Together, they created a personal home for Amy and her family that exudes style, comfort and a sense of tranquility. 

Bringing the Vision to Life

Known for her keen eye for detail and award-winning designs, Amy had a consistent “Design DNA” approach for the home, wanting it to feel grounded and inviting with bold design elements inspired by her world travels. A key design goal was to establish a harmonious flow between the home’s interior and exterior, which would lead to a personal sanctuary ideal for both relaxation and entertaining.

When it came to selecting materials for the Shelter for the Storms project, Amy looked for products that offered beauty, durability, and the versatility to seamlessly integrate into various spaces throughout the home. Cultured Stone’s Hewn Stone in Arctic emerged as a cornerstone design element that helped unify the aesthetic across multiple areas. 

Arctic Appeal: A Harmonious Integration

Arctic Hewn Stone’s organic, European-inspired look made it a perfect fit for Amy’s vision, from the basement to the outdoor living spaces.

In the moody basement lounge and bar space, Arctic Hewn Stone brings a bright, modern contrast to the rich color palette and sleek design elements. Its shape and texture were inspired by the timeworn stonework of ancient castles, adding an unexpected sense of history and character to the contemporary design. The stone continues through the lower level to the workout room, where it was applied to the exterior window-well. This subtle yet impactful touch of stone elevates an often overlooked space, enhancing the overall atmosphere of serenity and focus. For the outdoor areas, Amy was inspired by the homes in Normandy, France, where slate roofs and white stone accents are abundant. Leaning into this refined luxury, she used the same Arctic Hewn Stone to clad the outdoor kitchen, which features a built-in grill and pizza oven.