Hello everyone.
Welcome back to the Bilna Sandeep Show. I’m your host Bilna Sandeep.
As you all know, I am the owner of Build Market Lab, which is a construction marketing agency. And I am also the business development director of Maven Project Consultants. We are a project management and post-consulting firm.
Before I introduce today’s guest, I want you to hear this out. If you search on Google, stone consultant Dubai, you would probably find a lot of stone suppliers. But just one account that stands out, which is Stonex Consulting.
And which is a very unique thing, which is specialized in consulting for stone. So I want to introduce our guest, who is the founder of Stonex Consulting. Welcome to the show Vincento.
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Navigating the World of Stone Consulting: Insights from Stonex Consulting
In the construction and design industries, natural stone plays a pivotal role. However, understanding its nuances and selecting the right materials is far from straightforward. Vincento, founder of Stonex Consulting, sheds light on this intricate world in a conversation on “The Bilna Sandeep Show.”
The Complexity of Stone Consulting
Stone consulting is a niche field with few players, especially in regions like Dubai. As Vincento explains, the industry suffers from widespread misconceptions about natural stone. Designers, architects, and developers often lack the deep knowledge needed to work with this variational material. This gap inspired Vincento to establish Stonex Consulting—a specialized, independent consultancy aimed at solving stone selection problems and mitigating project risks.
From Carrara to Dubai: A Journey Shaped by Stone
Vincento’s journey began in Carrara, a small Italian town in Tuscany renowned for its white marble. Though his family did not work in the stone industry, growing up in this environment inevitably influenced his path. After graduating as a building engineer, he entered the field when a stone consultant encouraged him to explore the industry. His career took him from Italy to the UAE, where he worked on major projects like the Adnoc Headquarters in Abu Dhabi before moving to Dubai in 2015.
Carrara’s historical significance—dating back over 2,500 years to Roman quarrying—continues to inspire Vincento. The region’s marble, such as statuario, is prized for its strength and suitability for sculptures, adding a rich heritage to his expertise.
The Core Principles of Stone Consulting
Stonex Consulting operates on four key elements in stone selection:
- Aesthetic: The visual appeal of the stone.
- Availability: Ensuring the material can be sourced reliably.
- Fit for Purpose: Assessing the stone’s suitability for the project’s requirements.
- Budget: Balancing the financial aspects of the selection.
While architects often prioritize aesthetics during the design phase, overlooking the other factors can lead to significant challenges during execution. These issues range from budget overruns to disrupted designs. Vincento emphasizes the importance of involving a stone consultant during the design stage to preempt such problems and ensure all four elements align.
International Expertise with Local Roots
Stonex Consulting’s operations span globally, with teams in Turkey, Italy, China, Greece, and the UAE. Their comprehensive approach includes controlling quality at quarries, managing sourcing, and ensuring materials meet project specifications before shipping. While their expertise is international, around 90% of their projects are based in the UAE.
Breaking Industry Norms and Educating the Market
Stone consulting is still a relatively new concept, often overshadowed by stone suppliers and general construction consultants. Vincento’s efforts to educate the market include leveraging platforms like LinkedIn and conducting “Lunch & Learn” sessions with designers and architects. These initiatives help professionals understand the importance of specialized stone consulting and its impact on project timelines and costs.
The Independence Factor
One of the hallmarks of Stonex Consulting is its independence. Unlike other consultants who may be affiliated with stone suppliers, Vincento’s team offers unbiased advice free from conflicts of interest. This ensures clients receive recommendations tailored solely to their project’s needs.
Simplifying Stone Selection
To illustrate the value of a stone consultant, Vincento likens it to buying a car. Without expertise, a buyer relies on a salesperson who may prioritize their own interests. Bringing along an independent car expert ensures a better-informed decision. Similarly, Stonex Consulting acts as the unbiased expert in the stone selection process.
Types of Stones and Their Applications
Natural stone offers a wide variety of options, each suited to different purposes. The most commonly used types include:
- Marble
- Granite
- Limestone
- Travertine
Balancing Client Expectations and Material Realities
In the world of natural stone projects, challenges often arise when client preferences clash with the practical realities of material selection. A vivid example of this involved working with an architect and client to review materials during the range selection process. This critical phase involves marking slabs, determining their suitability, and understanding the natural limitations of the stone.
On one occasion, a client was initially satisfied with a particular selection, only to discover later that the chosen material did not meet the project’s standards. Rejecting unsuitable materials, despite initial client approval, underscores the importance of maintaining quality. Natural stone, by its very nature, demands careful selection to ensure it aligns with both aesthetic and functional goals.
Educating Clients on the Process
Educating clients about the nuances of natural stone is crucial. Many suppliers focus on immediate approvals, sometimes leading to subpar materials being pushed into projects. This practice can result in supply chain disruptions and compromises in quality. True professionals prioritize the client’s long-term interests, presenting realistic options and transparent advice to prevent such pitfalls.
Comparing Natural and Artificial Stone
A common question arises: why choose natural stone over artificial alternatives? The emergence of artificial stones, such as ceramic, porcelain, and reconstituted stone, has provided designers and architects with more accessible options. These materials aim to replicate the look of natural stone but often fall short in authenticity.
While artificial stones are easier to produce consistently, they lack the intrinsic charm and energy of natural stone. The tactile experience of entering a room adorned with natural stone is unparalleled, offering a connection to materials formed over millions of years. This distinction is particularly valued in luxury projects, where authenticity is paramount.
The Importance of Design
Good design can elevate even modest materials, while poor design can diminish the allure of the finest stone. A well-thought-out design can transform affordable materials into something extraordinary. As professionals, collaborating closely with architects to align material selection with design intent ensures the project’s success. Understanding the architect’s vision, including the color palette and overall aesthetic, allows for tailored material recommendations.
The Role of Samples and Expectations
Samples play a vital role in the design process, but they can only provide a partial representation of the final outcome. For natural stone, which features unique veins and patterns, it’s essential to supplement samples with photographs of slabs to set realistic expectations. This collaborative approach ensures that designers and clients fully understand the material’s potential and limitations.
Sustainability in Natural Stone
Sustainability has become a significant consideration in construction. Surprisingly, natural stone is far more sustainable than its artificial counterparts. Producing one square meter of natural stone requires only one-tenth of the energy needed to create the same area of man-made material.
This reduced carbon footprint highlights natural stone as an eco-friendly choice. In some regions, it is even being reintroduced as a structural material, replacing less sustainable alternatives. This shift underscores the enduring relevance and environmental benefits of natural stone in modern construction.
The Environmental and Regulatory Aspects of Quarrying
Quarrying natural stone has always been a topic of discussion due to concerns about sustainability and environmental impact. While it is true that natural stone is not a renewable resource, stringent government regulations ensure responsible quarry management. Once a quarry is depleted, license holders are mandated to restore the area by covering it up and planting trees, aiming to rejuvenate the natural habitat for wildlife. This process exemplifies a commitment to environmental stewardship.
Natural stone’s longevity and durability are evident when looking at ancient Roman structures, many of which were constructed using marble and other stones. These buildings, standing tall for thousands of years, are a testament to the timeless nature of stone as a building material. Visiting places like Rome, one is reminded of the enduring beauty and utility of natural stone.
A Diversified Entrepreneurial Journey: Barbera Italiana and Stonix
Among the many ventures of entrepreneurial leaders, Barbera Italiana stands out as a unique side business. Originally co-founded during a marketing agency stint, Barbera Italiana is a high-end gentlemen’s salon with branches in Italy and Dubai. The brand’s purpose is to elevate men’s self-care, providing luxurious experiences. Currently, it has three branches in Dubai, including locations in Mercato Mall, Dubai Festival City (DFC), and Dubai Marina, with a fourth branch soon to open in Creek.
However, the entrepreneurial journey in Dubai began with Stonix, a pioneering stone consulting business. The idea to bring Barbera Italiana to Dubai stemmed from a gap in the market for premium barbershops, blending an Italian touch into Dubai’s grooming scene.
Personal Branding and Sharing Knowledge
In the digital era, personal branding is indispensable for business owners and industry leaders. As someone with a marketing background, the importance of sharing knowledge is clear. It’s not just about showcasing expertise but also about contributing to the industry’s growth and educating others. Sharing valuable insights positions professionals as experts in their fields, building trust and recognition.
Regular activity on platforms like LinkedIn allows leaders to disseminate their vision, expertise, and innovative practices. This approach not only educates others but also attracts potential collaborators and clients. Personal branding, grounded in responsibility and a mission to elevate the industry, is a powerful tool for professional growth.
The Digital Evolution in the Construction Industry
While the construction industry boasts advanced on-site technologies, its digital adoption remains nascent. Traditional marketing methods, such as door-to-door sales and personal connections, still dominate. However, digital platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram are gradually gaining traction, highlighting the importance of early adoption in this space.
Digital engagement serves as a constant reminder of a professional’s presence and expertise. For instance, frequent posts by leaders on social platforms reinforce their visibility and credibility. Networking, both online and offline, plays a vital role in the industry. Attending events and establishing connections through in-person interactions remain unparalleled, bridging gaps that digital mediums cannot entirely address.
Networking and Industry Events: Building Relationships
Industry events are pivotal for fostering connections and sharing knowledge. For hyper-specialized fields like stone consulting, such gatherings introduce professionals to potential clients and collaborators who may not have been aware of their services. Events such as the China Architectural and Design Exhibition and the Xiamen Stone Fair are prime examples of platforms where knowledge sharing and networking converge.
Face-to-face interactions, even in today’s digital age, often lead to serendipitous opportunities. For instance, a casual conversation at an event can quickly translate into a business lead, exemplifying the value of maintaining a strong presence in both physical and digital spaces.
Stone Selection: Advice for Clients and Designers
The process of selecting the right stone is foundational for achieving the desired aesthetic in any project. Clients, especially those working on private homes, are encouraged to collaborate with designers to ensure harmony between the chosen stone and surrounding materials. Visiting large warehouses and exploring a diverse range of options often broadens one’s understanding of natural stone’s potential.
For designers and architects, working with stone consultants from the outset ensures that their creative vision is executed as intended. Without early collaboration, designs may undergo changes during later project stages, sometimes leading to outcomes that deviate significantly from the original vision. This underscores the importance of integrating stone consulting services into the design phase to avoid compromises and maintain project integrity.
The Challenge of Talent Development in Stone Consulting
Finding and nurturing talent in niche industries like stone consulting is a significant challenge. The rarity of specialized expertise necessitates robust training and development programs. Hiring individuals with a keen eye for detail and strong observation skills is the starting point. From there, structured training programs and standardized operating procedures (SOPs) play a critical role in transferring knowledge and ensuring quality.
Breaking down complex processes into step-by-step instructions and providing comprehensive checklists enable teams to perform inspections, quality control, and other tasks with precision. This methodical approach not only builds competence but also creates predictability in a field known for its complexities.
The Practicality and Problem-Solving Mindset
In the world of stone consulting, practicality and a solutions-driven mindset are essential qualities. As Vincenzo pointed out, rejecting unsuitable materials is easy, but the true challenge lies in guiding clients toward the right solutions. “Clients need to finish their buildings on time,” he emphasized. This requires a consultant to actively collaborate with contractors to ensure the delivery of suitable products, providing clear alternatives when issues arise.
This practical approach is the foundation of Vincenzo’s philosophy. His methodology focuses on being a problem solver rather than a hindrance, particularly in the fast-paced environments of cities like Dubai. “The industry wants everything yesterday,” he remarked, underscoring the need for efficiency and adaptability in the construction sector.
Navigating the High-Stakes Environment of Dubai’s Construction Industry
Dubai’s construction industry is unique in its speed and demands. Vincenzo acknowledged that being a problem solver is non-negotiable in such a high-pressure environment. “If you become a problem, you often get kicked out,” he noted. This underscores the importance of contributing value to every project and maintaining a client-focused approach.
For aspiring stone consultants or those new to the industry, Vincenzo’s insights are invaluable: focus on practicality, provide actionable solutions, and never become a bottleneck in the project’s progress.
Final Words from Vincenzo
The session wrapped up with Vincenzo sharing his appreciation for platforms that facilitate knowledge sharing. He encouraged the audience to engage with him on LinkedIn and other platforms for questions about stone consulting. His commitment to elevating the industry through education and practical solutions is evident in every aspect of his work.
Thank you so much, Vincenzo , to be on the show. And thanks to all our audience for watching the show.
Please do subscribe to this channel and make sure if you have any friends or relatives or family or network who wants to invest in Dubai, share this episode with them because they are going to get a lot of value from this.
Thank you and see you in the next episode.
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