Quoins are the stones that accent the external corners of a building — typically alternating long and short units that create a strong, classical corner detail. In cast stone, quoins bring that timeless look to NYC facades at a practical cost.
What quoins are
A quoin (from the French for "corner") is a dressed block used at the external angle of a wall. Set in an alternating pattern up the corner, quoins frame the facade and emphasize its edges. They can be smooth, rusticated (recessed joints), or chamfered.
Structural history, decorative today
Historically, larger corner stones helped reinforce and define a building's angles. On most modern buildings, cast stone quoins are decorative — applied as units to give a corner a dignified, finished appearance that reads as carved stone.
Design options
- Smooth or rusticated faces
- Chamfered edges for a crisp profile
- Varied quoin sizes for traditional rhythm
- Color-matched to limestone, brownstone, or the facade
New construction and restoration
For new builds, quoins give a facade instant classical character. For restoration, they are matched to the existing stone in color and profile. Quoins pair naturally with window sills, lintels, and belt courses as part of a complete cast stone program.
Specify quoins
Send us your drawings and we will prepare shop drawings and a quote. Request a quote from Mohan's Precast.
