Abstract
Stone is one of the oldest material for construction and artistic works. This study investigates the current use of stones in landscape constructional works, and the design criteria to advance the arts of natural stone arrangements. Thirty four experts and thirty two others were surveyed with various photos of simulated construction works of natural stone arrangements fond improved design guidelines. Major findings are as follows: -The payment for the use of stones ranges approximately 5 to 10% of total cost of landscape constructional works. More stones may be used when better retailing system is introduced, working skill is standardized, and more of the substitute natural stones made of blasted rocks are provided and the cost goes down. -Preferences showed little difference for the mixed use of different sizes, colors and shapes of stones, and for the use of similar ones, in the construction of walls. This does not match with the current design guidelines. -Arranging three stones, which symbolizes heaven, earth, and human being, was the most preferred. As the supply of natural stones is limited and more substitute stones are used, it its needed to establish guidelines for the production of substitute stones. -Grasses are much more preferred between pavement stones than mortars. -In current practices, top of piled up natural stones is usually arranged level. More freely curved top lines are preferred to straight line.