Chris Lobato is self taught in design of architectural stone treatments and mantelpiece design. Discovering this gift later in life than usual, he launched Aria at 51. The company is flourishing under his guidance and artistic vision with new products and designs being developed regularly. Chris credits his appreciation of architecture to his father and family trips that included exploring the churches and cathedrals of many cities and towns of the Southwestern US. Marrying in 2004, Chris and Michelle have enjoyed trips to several European countries, finding inspiration for Aria in many of the world's architectural jewels of classical antiquity.