Stone by Design: The Artistry of Lew French

I bought this for my father who, like Mr French, has collected beautiful and unusual stones for many years. A Minnesota native living in Martha's Vinyard, Mr French has an extensive stone collection from all over New England, which he draws from when creating his fluidly organic designs. While using such time honored techniques as dry-stacking arches and stone walls, his work retains a modern feel. I view this as an art book for it's superb photography,showcasing Mr French's craft in guesthouses, fireplaces, arches, garden pools and more. His engaging and informative text draws you from one spare, beautiful design to the next. Sure to please those who delight in work that is still done by hand, by an artist in stone. My father gives it four stars!

I bought this book for someone who lives on the Island pictured throughout. They have actually seen his work and found there is such a book so I purchased it as a gift for them. I was entranced with the beauty of the different gardens, fireplace designs, color photography and the written text. Mr. French is indeed the best artisan of stone and wood and Alison Shaw, whose work we have enjoyed through the many years on Martha's Vineyard has surely added much beauty to this book.

STONE BY DESIGN: THE ARTISTRY OF LEW FRENCH is packed with color photos of an artist who works in all kinds of stone, from slate and granite to fieldstone, incorporating these pieces into a home or art project setting. From locating stone in different places and splitting and working with its shape to working with architects in blending stone into home uses, STONE BY DESIGN is both an idea book and a survey of style and use by one whose expertise lies in blending stone qualities with home interior purposes. Diane C. Donovan, Editor California Bookwatch

Mr. French has created some beautiful pieces of art which are both functional and gorgeous to look at. The photography is stunning and the writing is solid and interesting. Anyone interested in architecture, design or art would find this book well worth a look.

Lew French master craftsman and writer of Stone by Design is a true artist. Ever since his first project Mr. French has been creating memorable pieces of art. The book is exquisitely written with photographs that complement the text nicely.