Living Stone Masonry

By Natasha Kubis

The craft of stonemasonry, known for its complexity, technique, and dexterity, remains one of the most revered trades in our civilization and can be described as an essential means to preserve our most treasured historic buildings and structures.

The Egyptian and Central American civilizations built pyramids, the Persians built palaces, and the Greeks built temples. Every society in existence has its iconic symbols and structures, the vast majority of which were crafted by the stonemasons of the time.

Modern-day stonemason Will Waller’s passion for the art of stone masonry was first cultivated as a child while visiting his relatives in England. The profound impressions of the historic stone architecture of churches, bridges, and homes left him in awe and stirred his future professional path.

At age 19, Will lived in Arizona and worked as a trail restoration crew member for Prescott National Forest, where he built stone walls and staircases. This experience continued to pique his interest in the art of masonry. In 2012, he and his wife, Alyssa, sought out Asheville, NC, because of the booming stonemason industry and the fact that stonework plays a central role in mountain architecture. That is when he came to work for Living Stone Masonry and eventually took over the business in January 2021.