Nothing classes up a property like a bit of stone hardscape. It is that rarity in design--a thing that is at once humble and grand (indoors, a fine old wood floor makes a similar contribution). This Saturday (or, in case of rain, Sunday), at the Berkshire Botanical Garden, Mark Mendel (left), the master mason with Monterey Masonry will give a hands-on workshop on the basics of building stone walls. After teaching us how to evaluate stone, then plan and layout a freestanding wall, Mendel will demonstrate cutting and fitting. Then students will apply what they have just learned by helping to build a garden wall. In the afternoon, Mendel will continue with another program that focuses on flatwork--paths, terraces, edging, walkways--and his range of materials will now extend to include brick. After instruction in how to evaluate a project and choose the best material for it, students will participate in the construction of a patterned brick terrace. Pre-registration requiredSaturday, April 26 (or, in case of rain, Sunday, April 27) Morning workshop (9 a.m. - 1 p.m): "Stone Walls for the Garden" Afternoon workshop (2 p.m. - 5 p.m.): "Paving with Brick and Stone" Half day, $50 ($45 for Botanical Gardens members); full day, $90 ($81 for members) Dress: outdoor work clothes, heavy-duty gloves, and safety glasses. Berkshire Botanical GardensIntersection Routes 102 & 183; Stockbridge; 413.298.3926
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