In medieval architecture, stone was primarily used for constructing significant structures such as castles, churches, and cathedrals. The use of stone was favored due to its durability and aesthetic qualities. Various types of stone were employed, including imported stones like the yellowish-white oolitic stone of Caen, which was suitable for delicate carving and internal decoration of churches. British oolitic limestones were widely used, particularly from quarries in Northamptonshire, Somerset, and Oxfordshire, supplying materials for notable buildings like Peterborough Cathedral and Wells Cathedral.
Additionally, stone was used for internal decoration and sculpture, with materials like Purbeck marble being prevalent in churches from the 12th to the 14th centuries. While stone was less common in domestic architecture, it was often used for foundations or lower stories, with timber being the more prevalent material for the upper structures. The use of stone in urban settings was also influenced by fire safety regulations, leading to the construction of stone dividing walls and chimneys in towns prone to fire hazards.
Overall, the medieval stone-building industry was significant, with many monastic establishments, parish churches, and municipal buildings constructed from stone, reflecting the economic and cultural importance of stone in that era.