Welcome to the Aurora House, a Disney-inspired dream home in Portland, Ore.
Built by Cascade West Custom Homes, the 6,090-square-foot Aurora House (named after Sleeping Beauty) showcases a striking blend of contemporary and traditional design elements through its thoughtful use of materials, particularly ledgestone and brick manufactured stone veneer (MSV).
Ledgestone, with its rugged texture and natural variation, adds depth and character to the home’s exterior. Its horizontal lines create a grounded, organic feel, harmonizing with the natural surroundings while offering a modern edge.
Complementing the ledgestone veneer, the brick MSV introduces a timeless aesthetic, giving the Aurora House a warm and inviting appearance. Together, the ledgestone and brick profiles create a sophisticated balance of rustic charm and contemporary design, making the Aurora House fit for a Disney princess.
Beyond ledgestone and brick, there are numerous MSV options, each uniquely suited for different design applications and architectural styles.
Here's a breakdown of some common types of MSV and their best uses:
Fieldstone
Characterized by irregular shapes and a natural, weathered look, Fieldstone mimics stones found in the countryside. Best suited for: It’s commonly used for creating a rustic, traditional feel in cottages, cabins, or country-style homes. Fieldstone ideal for fireplaces, outdoor landscaping, and facades where a natural, organic aesthetic is desired.
Limestone
Limestone veneer looks like natural limestone, offering a smoother, more uniform surface with subtle variations in color and texture. Best suited for: Limestone is well-suited for both interior and exterior applications in traditional, Mediterranean, or contemporary designs. It is often used on facades, garden walls, and entryways.
River Rock
River rock MSV is composed of smooth, round stones resembling those found along riverbeds. Best suited for: This type is ideal for creating a natural, tranquil atmosphere and works well in garden walls and rustic-style homes. It can also be used indoors in spaces or around fireplaces for a softer, more organic look.
Castle Stone
Castle stone has a more structured, geometric appearance with large, rectangular blocks that evoke strength and durability. Best suited for: Consider castle stone for formal, grand settings like luxury home exteriors, courtyards, and entryways for a statelier appearance.
Hewn Stone
Hewn stone is commonly used to create modern rustic elegance. Its clean lines and refined texture offer a sophisticated yet natural appearance, making it perfect for contemporary designs while retaining the warmth of traditional stone. Best suited for: Ideal applications include accent walls, exterior facades, and fireplaces where a sleek yet rugged look is desired. Its versatility also makes it a great choice for blending indoor and outdoor spaces.
Splitface Stone
Splitface stone has a rough texture with a split or cleaved surface, giving it a highly textured look. Best suited for: This type is excellent for creating a bold, textured accent in modern or contemporary designs. It is commonly used for interior feature walls, fireplaces, and exterior facades.
Wood-look Veneer
This type replicates the texture and grain of wood, offering an alternative for spaces where real wood may not be practical. Best suited for: Best for creating a rustic or contemporary look in both indoor and outdoor spaces. It can be used in areas like feature walls, facades, or even as a unique ceiling treatment.
Within these MSV categories, designers will find a range of colors and shades—from earthy, natural tones like warm browns, grays, and beige to more modern, sleek hues like cool whites, dark charcoals, and even blends of multiple shades—to suit various styles. Learn more about MSV and access resources.
