About Venetian Application Inc
Venetian Application Inc is a specialist plaster company dedicated to traditional Italian surface finishes. The work is led by plastering artisan Dean Baker, who has devoted more than forty eight years to the craft of authentic Venetian plaster. His experience has been shaped by decades of hands on plastering across residential estates, luxury homes, commercial interiors, hospitality spaces and architectural renovations throughout Los Angeles and Southern California. The company’s reputation has developed through consistent workmanship, careful communication and respect for the architectural needs of each project.
Our work is grounded in methods that originated in Venice many centuries ago. These techniques rely on mineral rich plasters made with lime and stone powders that build into a stone like surface. Over time the material transforms through carbonation into a durable and breathing finish. These qualities give Venetian plaster its long life and natural beauty. Dean has worked with these materials for many years, studying their behaviour, their curing stages and the subtle trowel movements that shape their final appearance.
Venetian Application Inc serves an extensive region including Beverly Hills, Malibu, Santa Monica, Pasadena, West Hollywood, Los Angeles and many surrounding communities. We also provide work across selected areas of Orange County and San Diego County. The variety of architecture in these regions allows us to apply classical techniques in ways that suit both traditional homes and modern spaces.
A history built on Italian plastering knowledge
Dean Baker’s experience began long before Venetian plaster became widely known in California. He learned foundational plastering practices through direct field work and continued building his skills as new European materials entered the United States. Over the years he has refined traditional methods to meet modern construction requirements while preserving the quiet beauty that defines authentic Venetian plaster.
His work emphasizes hand control, timing and an understanding of how thin layers respond to temperature, humidity and pressure. Dean studied finishes that came from Italy, including materials from Verona, the historic home of Romeo and Juliet. These are true lime based plasters and not decorative paints. They require skilled application because each layer must be placed with intention. The final effect depends on consistency, patience and experience.
Through decades of work Dean has mastered more than one hundred finishes including Marmorino, Marmorino Two, Arredo, Aquarello, Etruria, Mantovano, Liberty, Lugano, Valentino, Travertino, Pietra, Pesto, Rasa, Romano, Nova, Fiorentino, Murs D Art and many more. Each finish family has its own movement, texture and method. This depth of knowledge allows Venetian Application Inc to meet a wide range of aesthetic goals.
A commitment to authentic materials and craftsmanship
Venetian Application Inc uses true stone veneer plaster imported from Italy. These materials contain lime, marble powder and mineral components that form a surface far stronger and more lasting than common decorative products. Many coatings are marketed as Venetian plaster but are simply paint with additives. These cannot recreate the depth, translucence or durability of authentic plaster.
Our dedication to traditional materials is matched by a focus on precision. Surface preparation is a critical stage. Walls must be properly repaired, cleaned and stabilized before decorative work can begin. This includes addressing cracks, moisture concerns and previous patch work. Only after the substrate is corrected does the application process move forward. This preparation ensures that the final finish is both beautiful and durable.
Every finish is applied by hand in thin layers. Each coat develops its own character as the material responds to tool pressure and timing. Some finishes require burnishing to bring out shine, while others rely on gentle movements that create soft mineral textures. This is a craft that cannot be rushed. Dean approaches every wall with patience and care, allowing the surface to evolve naturally through the process.
What sets Venetian Application Inc apart
One of the defining qualities of Venetian Application Inc is the relationship between artisan and client. Every project begins with a conversation. Dean listens closely to your goals, the style of your home or building, the lighting conditions and the atmosphere you want the plaster to create. This collaborative approach ensures that the selected finish belongs to the architecture rather than feeling imposed on it.
Another distinguishing factor is the custom sampling process. Before any material is applied to your walls, a sample is created in your selected colour and finish. This sample allows you to see the true character of the plaster in your space. It provides clarity and confidence, helping you make decisions with assurance.
Restoration is another area in which the company excels. Matching an existing Venetian plaster surface requires a deep understanding of colour movement and trowel pattern. The aim is always a seamless repair that feels original. Whether the wall has been damaged, stained or patched incorrectly in the past, Dean approaches restoration with respect for the existing work and a desire to bring it back to its intended beauty.
A wide range of finishes for varied architectural styles
Venetian Application Inc is known for its extensive collection of finish families. These materials allow us to serve a broad spectrum of design preferences. Smooth classical finishes such as Marmorino provide refined elegance. Textured systems like Travertino or Pietra create depth and visual interest. Metallic surfaces such as Metallo develop reflective qualities that bring energy to feature walls. Artistic finishes like Murs D Art or Nova introduce bold creative expression.
Each finish responds differently to light and scale. Some are ideal for expansive walls, while others shine in intimate rooms. We guide clients through the selection so that each surface supports the intended interior style.
Working with Venetian Application Inc
When you choose Venetian Application Inc you receive guidance from an experienced artisan and a clear process. After the consultation and sample stage, work is scheduled thoughtfully. Spaces are protected, and the work area is maintained with care. Application proceeds in controlled stages, with each layer allowed to develop before the next is added. The final surface is then refined, sealed when required and prepared for long lasting performance.
Contact Venetian Application Inc
For information about our services or to discuss your project, you may reach plaster artisan Dean Baker during business hours, which are Monday through Friday from nine in the morning to six in the evening.
