What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
At Ember & Stone, we believe in transparent pricing that reflects the quality of our materials and craftsmanship. Our projects typically begin at $25,000, with comprehensive outdoor living spaces ranging from $30,000-$100,000+ depending on scope, materials, and complexity.
We provide detailed, itemized proposals so you understand exactly what you're investing in. While we don't compete on price with contractors using inferior materials or shortcuts, we do offer:
Financing options through trusted partners
Clear payment schedules tied to project milestones
Remember that quality outdoor spaces are investments that increase your property value and provide years of enjoyment with minimal maintenance costs.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Initial Consultation: We meet at your property to discuss your vision, needs, budget, and timeline while assessing your outdoor space.
Design & Proposal: Based on our consultation, we create a custom design and detailed proposal outlining materials, costs, and timeline.
Planning & Material Selection: Once you approve the proposal, we finalize design details and select specific materials together.
Project Preparation: We handle permits, utility marking, and material ordering to ensure a smooth start.
Construction: Our experienced team completes the installation with regular progress updates and quality checks.
Final Walkthrough: We review the completed project together to ensure everything meets your expectations.
Follow-up: We check in after completion to answer questions and ensure your complete satisfaction.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Our team combines formal training with hands-on experience:
Techo-Bloc Professional Certification for premium hardscape installation
ICPI (Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute) Certification
Construction management background with specialization in outdoor structures
Ongoing product training with leading manufacturers
Regular attendance at industry workshops and conferences to stay current on best practices and new materials
We're committed to continuous education to bring the latest techniques and innovations to our clients.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
My journey began in construction, where I noticed a concerning pattern: outdoor spaces were often treated as afterthoughts, with corners cut and quality compromised. Working alongside family members in various construction trades, I developed a passion for creating spaces that truly enhance how people live.
I founded Ember & Stone in 2024 after years of witnessing the transformative power of well-designed outdoor spaces on family life. I wanted to create a company focused on quality craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and transparent client relationships—filling a gap I saw in the market for high-end outdoor living spaces that actually deliver on their promises.
What types of customers have you worked with?
We've had the privilege of working with a diverse range of homeowners across Burlington, Mercer, Ocean, and Monmouth counties, including:
Young families creating safe, functional spaces for children to play
Empty-nesters redesigning their yards for entertainment and relaxation
Professional couples seeking low-maintenance luxury outdoor retreats
Multi-generational households needing accessible yet beautiful designs
Vacation homeowners enhancing their shore properties
New homeowners transforming builder-basic yards into personalized spaces
While our clients vary in age and lifestyle, they share a common desire for quality craftsmanship and thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces that enhance their everyday lives.
Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
We recently completed a comprehensive backyard transformation in Monmouth County for a family that loves entertaining. The project included:
A 600 sq. ft. Techo-Bloc patio with inlaid design
Custom outdoor kitchen with natural stone countertops
Cedar pergola with retractable shade system
Natural gas fire pit with seating wall
LED landscape lighting system
Native plant landscaping for privacy and aesthetic appeal
From initial consultation to final walkthrough, the project took 8 weeks—2 weeks for design and material selection, and 6 weeks for construction. Despite encountering drainage issues that required additional solutions, we completed the project on schedule.
What made this project special was seeing how it immediately changed the family's lifestyle. Within days of completion, they hosted their first outdoor dinner party and have told us they now spend most evenings outside rather than in their living room.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
When hiring an outdoor living contractor, I recommend:
Check credentials and certifications: Look for Techo-Bloc Pro certification, ICPI certification, and other industry credentials.
Review actual completed projects: Ask to see projects that are 3+ years old to assess how the work stands the test of time.
Request references: Speak with past clients about their experience during and after the project.
Examine proposals carefully: Detailed proposals indicate transparency. Be wary of vague estimates that might lead to surprise costs.
Understand the preparation process: Quality contractors invest time in proper site preparation—ask specifically about drainage, base materials, and compaction methods.
Verify insurance and permits: Ensure they carry proper insurance and will handle required permits.
Consider the full picture: The lowest bid rarely delivers the best value over time.
What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
Before your consultation, consider:
How will you use the space? For dining, entertaining, relaxation, play area, etc.?
What's your realistic budget range? Quality outdoor living spaces are investments—having a range helps find the right balance of elements.
What's your timeline? Top contractors often schedule months in advance, especially for spring/summer projects.
What's your maintenance comfort level? Different materials and features require varying levels of upkeep.
What's your style preference? Collect photos of outdoor spaces you love to share during consultation.
What are your property's challenges? Consider drainage issues, slopes, existing vegetation, or access limitations.
What are your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves? Prioritizing helps when making budget decisions.
Do you need/want to phase the project? Some larger transformations can be planned in stages over time.
Thinking through these questions helps us create a design that truly fits your lifestyle, preferences, and practical needs.
