Techniques and Finishes
The materials that we use are made by leading European manufacturers: Baldini Vernici, Bianchi Lecco, Boldrini, Max Meyer and Armourcoat.
Also we mix and make our own materials where historically accurate finishes are needed in the restoration projects or in the new Scagliola, Ornamental plaster and Polished stucco application.
The most common application techniques that we use are:
Stucco Lustro (Shiny stucco)
Stucco lustro is a term which refers to two slightly different types of materials and application process to achieve uniform and polished wall surface. Stucco Lustro is the Italian tradition of elegant luxurious wall finishes: Marmorino and Venetian Stucco ( In the United States know as Venetian Plaster) or better known in Italy as Spatolato. These finishes have some common characteristics, which give a sense of depth as well as transparency, due to the special techniques used in layering the plaster and the polished finish.
Venetian Stucco
Venetian Stucco / plaster ( Stucco Veneziano) is a term which refers to technique in polished stucco application. It is modern term to describe some of the techniques used to achieve polished stucco effect. In the origin country Italy is known as Stucco Lustro or Spatolato. Venetian stucco/plaster is made with natural materials. This finish is more delicate than Marmorino, and is therefore only for use on interior surfaces. Venetian stucco/plaster technique is used to achieve a more intense marbling and natural stone effect than Marmorino. The resulting surface is smooth and polished (mirror-effect) with strong contrasting variations. It can be applied in several colors. To achieve very smooth and shiny finish, we use of hundreds of trowel strokes per every square foot. Our methods of application and materials have been used for centuries in the Mediterranean region. Venetian stucco and Marmorino techniques are forgotten and we are trying to keep a piece of history alive.
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Scagliola
The Scagliola technique is used to create the tonalities and veins of real marbles with a very natural effect. With Scagliola is possible to reproduce any type of stone to embellish walls, columns, plaster decor and furniture. If mixed with hydraulic lime it could be used for making kitchen countertops. It is polished to achieve a natural marble texture and shine. The Scagliola technique is almost forgotten. Today many people are trying to reproduce a marbling effect with paint or resins. The original materials are far superior to current synthetic imitations and it's mixed without using any chemicals. It can be applied to any standard construction substrate. We are specialized in mixing, installation and historical restoration.
This technique could be used for ornamental work which is considered by many the art it self. It is the highest achievement of plastering craftsmanship.
Spatolato
Spatolato is the term which refers to a specific technique used in applying very fine stucco paste. The paste is made with marble dust, slaked and aged lime putty. The name Spatolato is derived from Italian word Spatula which literary means working or applying with spatula and it refers to the technique of application process. Its characteristic appearance is due to criss-cross application in a very thin layers using spatula or the small trowel.
Marmorino
Marmorino is a beautiful, ancient
technique of polishing stucco for interior and exterior
use. Traditional ingredients such as marble dust, fine sand,
natural pigments, aged lime putty, give a polished, decorative
surface. We use natural materials and ancient techniques
to achieve this natural stone effect. Marmorino is water
resistant and ideal surfacing for bathrooms and kitchens.
A unique feature of Marmorino is that it can be applied over
virtually any substrate including paint, plaster, brick,
stone, drywall, wood (MDF), Concrete blocks or concrete. Also it
is resistant to any weather conditions and can be applied to
exterior surfaces .
TADELAKT
The Tadelakt technique refers to unique application/finishing process of lime (Lime with the high content of magnesium) mixed with the natural pigments, fine sand and marble dust and often sealed with the black or olive oil soap.
The Tadelakt technique is invented by Moorish people aprox. 11th century AD. It is used in complex geometrical patterns (Arabesques) to create some of the most beautiful plaster work.
