
Natural Stone Academy
Brought to you by Natural Stone Institute



Natural stone as a building material shows up virtually everywhere—from building facades to landscaping and interior accents. The Stone Academy examines the innovative design and structural uses of natural stone in residential, commercial, and public applications. It also delves into the use of stone as a sustainable material, as well as provides an overview of the aesthetic benefits, technical advances, fabrication, quarrying and excavation challenges, installation issues, and the overarching historical context of stone. Additionally, the academy examines many different types of stone and provides insights and case studies detailing their use, both indoors and out. As innovative design solutions become more and more important in creating cost-effective, high-performing contemporary structures, stone is a popular choice for its natural beauty and versatility, environmental benefits, and durability. The academy features numerous examples of such innovation across many project types in the United States and abroad.
Earn 7 AIA LU (2 AIA LU/HSW + 5 AIA LU/Elective).
Academy Resources
Editorial Resources
Hundreds of temples serve the 2.2 million Hindus living in the United States, but the Iraivan (meaning "He who is worshipped") Temple is the only one known to be built without modern equipment.
Natural Stone Institute Resources
For Architects, Designers and Contractors
Natural Stone Council (NSC) updates sustainability standard to align with evolving green building programs
Natural Stone Institute
Natural Stone Institute