Roman Clay & Specialty Finishes in Santa Barbara
Roman Clay · Metallics · Color Wash · Faux
Roman clay, metallic glazes, color washes, and custom faux work — the finishes that make a room feel designed rather than painted. We prototype on sample boards, dial in the technique, and execute consistently across large surfaces.
What’s included
- Reference review and technique development
- Sample boards plus on-wall mockups for approval
- Level-5 style substrate prep where the finish demands it
- Tinted base coats to guarantee color consistency
- Multi-layer hand application with consistent movement
- Protective topcoat where the surface will be touched or cleaned
Products & materials
Roman clay and mineral-based clay plasters, metallic and pearlescent glazes, and designer specialty lines, topcoated with non-yellowing matte sealers.
Our founder spent years as a product specialist for Sherwin-Williams and Dunn-Edwards, so coatings are specified for your substrate and exposure — not for whatever is on the shelf. Meet the owner.
Our specialty finishes process
- 01
Bring us a reference
A photo, a fabric, or a designer spec — we reverse-engineer the technique from it.
- 02
Prototype
Sample boards let you compare depth, sheen, and color before committing a room.
- 03
Prep the substrate
Specialty finishes telegraph flaws, so the wall is prepared to a higher standard.
- 04
Layer by hand
Each pass is applied by the same finisher to keep the movement consistent.
- 05
Seal
Matte or satin protection where needed, chosen so it does not flatten the effect.
Specialty Finishes FAQs
What is Roman clay?
Roman clay is a thin, hand-troweled clay plaster that produces a soft, matte, suede-like wall with subtle movement — popular in modern Santa Barbara interiors.
Can you match a photo I found online?
Usually yes. We prototype on sample boards until the depth, color, and sheen match your reference.
Are specialty finishes durable?
With the right topcoat they clean up well. We recommend the protection level based on the room and traffic.
Free same-day estimate
Tell us about your specialty finishes project and we’ll get back to you within one business hour with next steps.