Dec 28 2008
In the current era of environmental concern and ultra-green awareness, every major industry has a newly found responsibility to participate in ecological maintenance and sustainability.
High-end mantel manufacturer and masonry company Francois & Co is no exception; from the very first day of their operation, the company has been dedicated to producing the highest level of product while having as little negative impact on the globe as possible.
Francois & Co re-uses and recycles various natural elements when constructing their signature scagliola stone, allowing the company to avoid unnecessary quarrying of limited natural resources. Since 1997, Francois & Co. has been crafting antique-looking Scagliola Stone fireplace mantels, range hoods and architectural accents. Scagliola Stone has the look and feel of quarry stone, however it is actually a blend made from crushed travertine, limestone or marble which allows nearly identical replicas to be made without disturbing diminishing rock quarries.
The company also makes it a point to participate in various green projects which convey much needed attention to the conservancy of the planet whenever possible.
On June 11, 2008, Southern Building's Showcase home, "EcoLumina" was opened to the public, which features the Scagliola Stone(TM) "Toulouse" fireplace mantel by Francois & Co. The spacious residence features an abundance of high-performance, energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly products inside and out.
"We were truly honored to be included in this LEED-certified showcase home, and we look forward to introducing green-minded home-owners and professionals to our many eco-friendly architectural products," says Jean-Christophe Pandolfi, VP Sales and marketing of Francois & Co.
Francois & Co also participated in the building of "Eco-Manor", the entirely green private residence of Ted Turner's daughter in Atlanta. The company installed a Scagliola Stone mantel as well as a kitchen hood in the soon-to-be LEED certified home.
Francois & Co. products were also selected for inclusion in the Green Design Pavilion organized in 2008 by TODL, the design industry's largest product specification database.
In addition to the eco-friendly Scagliola Stone, Francois & Co. also offers a unique collection of hand-carved mantel pieces made with reclaimed limestone, again utilizing already available materials to avoid environmental demise.
Francois & Co continues to create new and innovative ways of reducing the amount of natural resources consumed while maintaining the highest standards of quality and beauty. They are a working example that proves an eco friendly lifestyle is attainable without sacrificing luxury, style and beauty.