Marble Designs Inc. primarily targets residential projects, but also does a small percentage of commercial work. The shop fabricates stone into a range of finished products, including countertops, fireplace surrounds, vanity tops and conference tables. “We probably do 70% new construction and 30% remodeling,†explained the owner. “We average about two kitchens a day.†During the busy time of the year, the schedule is booked up for about four or five weeks, according to Kerstine.
Marble Designs Inc. has 17 workers on staff, with seven of them in the fabrication shop, including the shop foreman. “The majority of our workers have been highly recommended, with a good reputation in work ethic, even if they are not from the stone industry,†said Kerstine. “The training is done to the specifications of the shop, and the fabricators are trained in any aspect of the process, like edging and grinding.â€