Italian expertise, international experience and natural stone in the spotlight – top Italian experts on the ARCHI-STRADA stage
STONE 2026, held as part of the joint block with BUDMA, will once again become a space for international exchange of knowledge and experience in the fields of natural stone, architecture and modern technologies. On Thursday, 5 February, one of the key highlights of the programme will be the presence of the Marmomac Academy – a prestigious, international educational platform that for years has supported the development of architects, designers and companies working with natural stone worldwide.
Italian know-how and experience on ARCHI-STRADA
On 5 February, the ARCHI-STRADA stage in Hall 5 will host two renowned experts from Italy, who will address topics crucial to contemporary stone architecture – from quarrying and craftsmanship to technological innovation and sustainability.
Marmomac Academy Programme
Gianni Simonelli
From Quarry to Craft: How Stone Becomes Architecture & Design
10:00–11:00
The first lecture will focus on the complete life cycle of natural stone. Gianni Simonelli, a consultant to the stone industry, will guide participants through the successive stages of stone’s journey – from extraction in the quarry, through processing and quality control, to its final application in architecture and design. The presentation will highlight the importance of craftsmanship, conscious material selection and the role of the designer in giving stone its final form.
Paolo Marone
Training programs on Innovation of the technologies for a sustainable stone
14:30–15:30
The second lecture will concentrate on innovative technologies and sustainability in the stone industry. Paolo Marone, an internationally recognised expert in natural stone technologies, will present modern technological solutions and training programmes that support production efficiency, reduce environmental impact and respond to the growing demands of contemporary construction.
The international dimension of STONE
The presence of the Marmomac Academy highlights the international character of the STONE trade fair and the growing importance of natural stone in modern architecture and design. Cooperation with the MARMOMAC brand and Veronafiere strengthens the fair’s position as a platform for dialogue between designers, architects, manufacturers and contractors from different markets.
Organisational information
5 February 2026
ARCHI-STRADA Stage, Hall 5
STONE & BUDMA Trade Fairs – Poznań International Fairgrounds
Marmomac stand: Hall 5, stand 45
We invite architects, designers, stonemasons and all professionals interested in natural stone to take part in the Marmomac Academy lectures – a unique opportunity to discover global trends, gain practical knowledge and meet experts with international experience.