Harding Township, which includes the village of New Vernon, is one of the most rural municipalities in this part of Morris County. Homes sit on large lots, often several acres, among horse farms, fields and woods, and part of the township borders the Great Swamp. Houses range from historic farmhouses and old country estates to large newer homes built to look traditional. Much of the existing masonry is natural stone: fieldstone walls along roads and pastures, stone chimneys and stone foundations.
Entries built in natural stone
On country houses, the front entry is often the most visible masonry on the property. We build stacked stone and fieldstone faced entries with wide bluestone landings and steps, sized to the scale of the house. Our stone masonry also covers garage walls, foundation veneer and stone pillars at the end of the driveway.
Fieldstone walls and old masonry
Dry laid and mortared stone walls are part of the landscape here. Over decades, frost and roots push stones out and sections collapse. We relay old walls using the original stone where possible. On historic houses, our historic masonry restoration includes repointing with compatible mortar and repairing old chimneys and foundations.
Terraces, pools and outdoor rooms
With space to spare, many owners plan large terraces in bluestone or pavers, an outdoor fireplace, and a pool surround that connects it all. We plan these as one project so grades and drainage work across the whole area, and we keep finished surfaces clear of low, wet ground.
Driveways in the country
Long gravel driveways are common and suit the rural setting. We add paved aprons at the road and garage, Belgian block or stone edging, and drainage where runoff crosses the drive.
Before you plan
- Wetlands and buffers. Land near the Great Swamp or streams may face extra limits.
- Historic homes. Some older properties call for matching original materials.
- Wells and septic. Rural lots usually have both, so we mark them first.
- Lead time. Natural stone and bluestone can take time to select and deliver.
Harding borders Chatham Township, Morris Township and Mendham Township, and we serve all of Morris County. Schedule a free estimate for your Harding home and we will walk the property with you.
