Bernardsville is a hilly borough in the Somerset Hills, known for its older estates, winding roads and wooded lots. Stone is everywhere: dry laid walls along property lines, stone gate piers, fieldstone chimneys and stone faced homes. Newer houses in town often borrow the same look. For the masonry we do here, quality of stonework and fit with the property matter as much as structure.
Stone walls, old and new
Old stone walls are part of the landscape, and many have shifted or partly collapsed after decades of frost, tree roots and the occasional car. We rebuild failed sections on a firm base and reuse the original stone wherever we can, so the repair disappears into the rest of the wall. For new work, our stone masonry includes freestanding garden walls, entry piers and stone veneer that matches existing stone on the house.
On steep ground, walls do structural work too. A retaining wall along a climbing driveway or below a terrace needs a solid footing and drainage behind it. We build those in natural stone or stone faced block so they look right and hold up.
Entries, landings and steps
Stacked stone entries with large bluestone landings suit the scale of many Bernardsville homes. We build wide steps with generous treads, stone risers and landings that give room for a bench or planters. Walkways in bluestone or natural stone connect the entry to the drive and garden. Lighting along the walk and at the steps is easy to add during construction, and makes a long approach safer at night.
Chimneys and outdoor fireplaces
Large fieldstone and brick chimneys are common on older homes here, and they take the brunt of the weather. We repoint, rebuild crowns and caps, and reconstruct upper sections when stone or brick has loosened. Outside, a stone fireplace or fire pit on a bluestone patio extends the season, built in the same stone as the house so it looks original. We size the firebox and chimney so the fireplace draws well and smoke clears the seating area.
Before work begins
- Borough permits. Walls, new steps and outdoor fireplaces may need approval from the building department.
- Older properties. Historic homes may have extra considerations for exterior changes. Let us know early.
- Steep access. Long, sloped driveways affect deliveries. We plan staging to protect lawns and plantings.
- Mature trees. Roots near walls and patios shape the layout. We work around the trees you want to keep.
Bernardsville is one of the main towns we serve in Somerset County, along with Bridgewater and the rest of the Somerset Hills. To discuss a wall, entry or chimney, get a free estimate and we will meet you on site.
