In the luxury real estate world, Vincenzo Spina is a true game-changer. As the founder of Stonex Consulting, he’s taking on some of the most ambitious projects in the UAE, working with big names like EMAAR and Omniyat to add a level of elegance and permanence that only natural stone can provide. From the Grand Bleu Tower by Elie Saab to ORLA by the Dorchester Collection, Vincenzo’s work is all about elevating spaces with carefully selected, beautiful materials that make a lasting impact. We caught up with him to learn more about his journey, his philosophy on materials, and how he’s reshaping the industry one stone at a time.
1) Vincenzo, before we dive into the luxury real estate market, let’s clarify: what exactly does a Stone Consultant do?
A Stone Consultant is a specialized advisor who helps developers, architects, and designers navigate the complexities of natural stone selection, procurement, and quality control. Unlike suppliers who simply sell materials, a Stone Consultant ensures that the right stone is chosen based on aesthetic, technical, and budgetary considerations. We also oversee sourcing, logistics, and installation to guarantee the highest quality execution. Essentially, we eliminate guesswork and costly mistakes, ensuring that stone becomes an asset rather than a challenge in high-end developments.
2) Your work at Stonex Consulting is transforming the way natural stone is used in luxury real estate. What inspired you to disrupt this market?
The luxury real estate market is evolving rapidly, yet many developers and designers still struggle to integrate natural stone in a way that enhances both aesthetics and value. My goal is to bridge the gap between high-end architecture and intelligent material
selection. Too often, stone is seen as just another finish rather than a strategic asset. I founded Stonex Consulting to change that—to help developers and designers maximize both the design impact and financial returns of their projects through precise stone selection and direct procurement strategies.
3) How can the right natural stone selection increase a property’s value?
In luxury real estate, materials define perception. A well-selected stone can create an immediate emotional response—it signals exclusivity, craftsmanship, and permanence. The right selection enhances the design, aligns with the target buyer’s expectations, and differentiates the property in a competitive market. More importantly, by working with a strategic approach, we help clients avoid overpaying for stone that doesn’t add real value and instead guide them toward materials that maximize resale or rental potential.
4) So, STONEX Consulting is not a stone supplier. Can you explain what makes your consulting firm different?
Correct—STONEX Consulting is not a stone supplier. We provide specialized services that guide our clients in selecting the right stone, managing procurement strategies, and ensuring quality control at every stage of the project. Our approach is independent and strategic. Rather than pushing specific materials, we focus on what works best for the project in terms of design, durability, cost efficiency, and market positioning. By doing so, we help developers and architects make informed choices that elevate the value of their properties.
5) You emphasize procurement as a critical part of your service. Why is direct procurement a game-changer for developers?
Direct procurement means bypassing unnecessary middlemen, which results in better quality control, cost efficiency, and access to premium materials that may not be available through standard supply channels. Many developers overpay for stone without realizing they can get superior quality at a better price by working with the right sourcing strategy. STONEX Consulting helps them access the best quarries, negotiate effectively, and optimize logistics to ensure their investment in stone adds tangible value to their project.
6) What are the most common mistakes developers make when selecting stone?
The biggest mistake is selecting stone based purely on aesthetic appeal without considering technical performance, budget, maintenance, and long-term durability. Another major issue is late-stage procurement—stone should be selected early in the design phase, not after construction begins. Finally, many developers rely too heavily on local suppliers without exploring global options, which often results in overpaying or missing out on superior materials.
7) You work closely with luxury real estate developers. How does your expertise help them maximize project profitability?
Every decision in a luxury development should be made with the end buyer in mind. We analyze the target market, identify the right material positioning, and then source stone that enhances the project’s perceived value. By optimizing the supply chain and avoiding costly mistakes, we help developers improve their bottom line. A well-executed stone strategy can turn a property into a landmark—and that translates into premium pricing.
8) In your opinion, what is the future of natural stone in high-end real estate?
I see a shift towards highly customized applications. Luxury buyers no longer want generic materials—they seek rare stones, exclusive finishes, and personalized cuts. Sustainability is also becoming a major factor. Developers who integrate sustainable quarrying practices and responsibly sourced materials will gain a competitive advantage. Additionally, technology, such as digital templating and AI-powered selection tools, will streamline the procurement process, allowing for even more precision in design execution.
9) How do you help private clients, such as high-net-worth individuals building luxury residences?
Private clients often struggle to access the best materials because they don’t have direct relationships with quarries: they don’t how what where to buy and they don’t know how to control the quality ending up buying from the local market, often at a very inflated prices. Some of my clients saved more than 50% on the stone for their villa, using our direct procurement service: we find the best cost-effective solution to procure the stone selected with their designers, we take care of the quality control thanks to our Architectural Stone inspectors located in Italy, Greece, Turkey, Brazil, China and Portugal, and the whole logistic of it.
Our job is to translate their vision into reality while ensuring the investment holds long-term value.
10) You have a strong background in marketing and strategy. How does that influence your work in stone consulting?
Understanding the psychology of luxury buyers is crucial. I don’t just look at stone as a material, I see it as a branding tool. The right stone selection tells a story; it enhances the identity of a development and creates an emotional connection with buyers. My background in marketing allows me to position materials in a way that resonates with high-end clientele, ensuring that every project we work on stands out in the market.
11) You’ve worked on some of the most prestigious luxury developments. Which projects have been the most rewarding for you?
There have been quite a few, but some really stand out. Grand Blue Tower by Elie Saab was a fantastic project where we used Calacatta Sponda, a rare and elegant marble that perfectly complemented the brand’s sophisticated aesthetic. Then there’s Vida Dubai Mall, where we sourced and implemented a stunning Italian Silver Travertine façade—a choice that wasn’t just about beauty but also durability in Dubai’s climate. And of course, Majestic Vistas, the Lamborghini-branded villas—that was a unique challenge. The stone selection had to reflect the boldness and prestige of Lamborghini, so we worked with high-contrast, statement-making materials that really set the project apart. Each of these was incredibly rewarding because they show how the right stone can do more than just look good—it reinforces a brand’s identity and adds real value to a property.
12) What should an architect or designer consider when selecting stone for a luxury project?
Beyond aesthetics, they need to consider longevity, maintenance, and sourcing. Stone should not only look stunning but also withstand the test of time. We guide architects through technical aspects like porosity, resistance to climate conditions, and installation best practices. A well-informed choice ensures that the project maintains its beauty and value for decades.
13) What’s next for you and Stonex Consulting? Any exciting projects on the horizon?
We are expanding our footprint in the ultra-luxury residential and hospitality markets, particularly in the UAE and Europe. We’re also working on a digital platform that will revolutionize how stone inspections and quality control are managed. My long-term vision is to set a new global standard for how natural stone is integrated into luxury developments—one that prioritizes quality, exclusivity, and strategic value.
14) Finally, looking back at your career so far, what’s been the most fulfilling part?
Without a doubt, it’s seeing the direct impact my expertise has on the success of a project. When I walk into a finished development and see how the right stone selection has transformed the space—how it enhances the architecture, the light, the atmosphere—it’s incredibly rewarding. But beyond aesthetics, the real fulfillment comes from knowing I’ve helped my clients avoid costly mistakes, improve their bottom line, and elevate their projects to a level that sets them apart in the market.
I’ve had developers tell me that my strategic approach has helped them sell units faster and at higher prices. I’ve had architects thank me for pushing them to explore bolder, more sophisticated materials that redefine their designs. And I’ve seen private clients walk into their homes and be blown away by the uniqueness of the stone we sourced for them. That, for me, is the greatest satisfaction—knowing that I’m not just working with stone, but shaping the perception of luxury in real estate.
15) For those inspired by your insights and looking to elevate their projects with the right natural stone strategy, how can they approach you and STONEX Consulting?
The best way to start is with a conversation. Every project is unique, and my role is to understand the client’s vision, challenges, and goals before crafting a tailored strategy. Whether you’re a luxury developer looking to optimize procurement, an architect seeking expert guidance on stone selection, or a private client aiming to create a one-of-a-kind space, STONEX Consulting is here to help.
You can reach out through our website www.stonexconsulting.com or LinkedIn (Vincenzo Spina), where I frequently share insights on how to use natural stone effectively in high-end real estate. From there, we can arrange a consultation to explore how to bring your project to the next level. The right stone, chosen strategically, is more than just a material—it’s an investment in lasting beauty and value. Let’s make it count.