Who we are.
European stonemasonry rooted in Vancouver Island stone
Old World Stone Design is a Vancouver Island–based stone studio founded on a deep respect for traditional European stonemasonry and the natural beauty of stone.
We work primarily with local and reclaimed materials, shaping each piece by hand using time-honoured techniques adapted to modern design. Whether we are crafting stone furniture, home goods, or custom indoor and outdoor features, our approach is deliberate, material-driven, and rooted in place.
We believe stone is not just a building material, but a lasting expression of craftsmanship, permanence, and connection to the land.
We don’t just craft stone.
We scuplt legacies.
The Lineage
From the medieval heart of France to the rugged shores of Vancouver Island.
Old World Stone Design was born in heart of France, a region known for the understated and timeless elegance of its churches, abbeys, and chapels, testaments to millennia-old craftsmanship and a perfectly balanced Romanesque, Gothic and Cistercian architectural arts.
Our founder, Benjamin Violot, is a Compagnon stonemason. The “French Compagnonnage”, is a historic way transmitting knowledge and traditions in the trades, much like some medieval guilds, and this practice is now inscribed to the UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2010.
With over 20 years of experience, Benjamin’s hands have shaped the full spectrum of the craft: from the meticulous restoration of medieval towns to the clean lines of modern urban residences and large-scale commercial landmarks. Today, that deep-seated European expertise is applied to the raw, natural beauty of Vancouver Island stone, blending Old World soul with contemporary West Coast design.
Why Work With Us.
Locally sourced stone · Handcrafted on Vancouver Island · Built to last ·
Locally sourced stone · Handcrafted on Vancouver Island · Built to last ·
Locally sourced stone · Handcrafted on Vancouver Island · Built to last · Locally sourced stone · Handcrafted on Vancouver Island · Built to last ·
Our Approach
We’re proud of where we’ve been and even more excited for what’s ahead. What sets us apart isn’t just our process—it’s the intention behind it. We take time to understand, explore, and create with purpose at every turn.
01. The Selection
Every project begins with the search.
We hand-select local or reclaimed stone for its weight, grain, and character. This curation ensures every piece is both structurally sound and aesthetically destined for your space.
02. The Dialogue
Mastery of stone requires an attentive ear.
Through a dialogue between your vision and the material, we ensure every project feels intimate, intentional, and perfectly suited to your story.
03. The Craft
This is the slow, rhythmic labor of the chisel and the hand.
Using both millennia-old and modern techniques, we work in harmony with the stone’s resistance. It is a deliberate process of subtraction—stripping away the excess to reveal the timeless form hidden within the raw material.
04. The Placement
A piece of stone truly lives when it meets its environment.
Whether it is a hand-carved vessel or a custom architectural feature, we ensure the installation is seamless.
Dream it.
Ready to bring the permanence of stone into your home?
Let’s discuss your project, from custom outdoor features to heirloom-quality furniture.