My name is Mark Stewart and this is my online stonework portfolio.

I trained with Donal McCarthy, a well respected West Cork stonemason, before returning to my native county of Kilkenny in 2006 to start up my own business, trading under the name "Breg Stone Design". I think that "Stone Design" is critical to explain what I am interested in doing.

I think that stone is beautiful and good stonework, to me, is an art form. I love traditional Irish stonework and I try to build in that style, having respect for the stone's natural shape and bed; a respect which is sadly lacking in many more recently built walls that look more like vertical crazy paving.

I am also very interested in the various county styles that have evolved in Ireland throughout the ages and am always on the lookout for inspiration. I try to design a wall to suit the surroundings, and build with old, natural looking stone that will blend in better with the land. I also believe that a good mix of colours is essential to ensure that the wall does not look tired and monotone and like to have input into the choice of stone being used.

I am available for stonework on houses, boundary walls, retaining walls, fireplaces, ponds and more. I also design garden features such as seating areas, barbeque/eating areas, patios, structural art etc...

Please click here for a brief history of the word Breg.