Nova Plaster Finishes by Venetian Application Inc
Nova is a contemporary Italian plaster finish known for its smooth elegance, subtle tonal movement and refined mineral character. It brings together traditional lime based craftsmanship with a modern aesthetic that emphasizes calmness, clarity and understated depth. Venetian Application Inc applies Nova using authentic Italian materials and controlled hand techniques shaped by more than forty eight years of plastering experience. Artisan Dean Baker understands the unique qualities within the Nova system and applies each layer with careful precision to achieve surfaces that feel clean, natural and visually balanced.
Nova is ideal for clients who want a finish that offers quiet sophistication rather than bold expression. It creates a serene atmosphere in both residential and commercial interiors. The finish can remain matte or be lightly polished depending on the desired appearance. Nova is appreciated for its ability to blend seamlessly with a wide range of architectural and interior design styles, making it a preferred option for living rooms, dining rooms, master suites, hallways, offices and boutique hospitality projects.
Venetian Application Inc provides Nova plaster finishes throughout Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Malibu, Santa Monica, Pasadena, West Hollywood and many surrounding communities. Its contemporary mineral character adds refined beauty to modern and classic spaces alike.
The defining qualities of Nova plaster
Nova is a lime based mineral plaster that offers smooth texture with soft visual movement. It does not rely on heavy texture or dramatic contrast. Instead it emphasizes clean transitions, natural variation and subtle elegance.
The defining qualities of Nova include:
• soft mineral depth
• smooth refined texture
• understated tonal variation
• matte surface with optional light sheen
• calm contemporary presence
Because Nova interacts naturally with changing light, walls finished with this material gain dimension as the day progresses. Morning light brings out soft highlights, while evening lighting enhances deeper tones. The finish remains breathable and durable, strengthening as the lime carbonates over time.
Nova in interior and architectural design
Nova is valued for its versatility in architecture and interior design. In modern spaces it supports simplicity and clean lines, adding warmth without interrupting the flow of the room. Its refined surface quality helps soften minimalist interiors while maintaining clarity. In traditional or transitional environments, Nova enhances natural materials such as wood, stone and metal, creating harmony between old world craftsmanship and contemporary design.
Designers frequently select Nova for:
• living rooms and gathering spaces
• formal dining areas
• master bedrooms and private suites
• long hallways and transitional zones
• staircases and entry halls
• boutique hotel interiors
• upscale retail environments
• office reception areas
Nova offers a timeless look that adapts to many architectural styles. Its quiet presence allows furnishings, artwork and lighting design to stand out without visual conflict.
How Nova differs from other Italian plaster finishes
Nova holds a distinct place among smooth Venetian finishes. Compared to Marmorino or Marmorino II, Nova typically presents less mineral patterning, offering a more consistent and minimal surface. It shows gentle movement rather than the more defined mineral transitions found in Marmorino.
Unlike Veneziano, which can be polished to a strong reflective sheen, Nova remains subtle even when lightly polished. This makes it ideal for clients who seek softness rather than shine.
Nova differs from textured finishes such as Arredo, Etruria or Mantovano, which place more emphasis on tactile variation. Nova maintains smooth refinement with controlled movement.
Compared to artistic finishes like Murs D Art or Fiorentino, Nova stays within a calm visual range. It does not aim for expressive texture but instead focuses on elegant quietness.
The Nova application process
Applying Nova requires technical understanding and consistent hand control. The process begins with surface preparation. Any cracks, uneven textures or previous coatings must be corrected to ensure a uniform final appearance. Because Nova is a smooth finish, imperfections in the substrate can affect the overall cleanliness of the result.
Dean applies Nova in several thin coats. The first coat creates the foundational tone. Additional coats build subtle depth and refine the surface texture. The trowel is used with controlled movements to create soft transitions while maintaining a smooth profile.
During the final stages, the surface may be gently compressed or polished to achieve the desired sheen level. Timing is crucial. The plaster must be worked while it is responsive but not overly wet. If compression begins too early, the movement may smear. If done too late, the finish may resist polishing.
Nova requires thoughtful observation throughout the application. Dean evaluates how the material shifts as it sets, adjusting technique accordingly to achieve a cohesive finish.
Areas served
Venetian Application Inc provides Nova plaster finishes in Beverly Hills, Malibu, Santa Monica, Pasadena, West Hollywood, Culver City, Carson, Gardena, Hawthorne, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, Torrance, Inglewood and many additional communities throughout the Los Angeles region. Services are also available in selected areas of Orange County and San Diego County.
Colour selection and custom sampling
Nova accepts mineral pigments that create a wide range of tones from soft neutrals to atmospheric contemporary colours. Venetian Application Inc prepares custom sample boards for every project. These samples allow clients to see how the selected tone interacts with lighting, flooring, furnishings and architectural elements.
Sampling ensures that the final finish aligns with the design vision. Adjustments to movement, tone or sheen can be made during the sample stage before installation begins.
Maintenance and durability
Nova is a durable finish when properly maintained. Routine cleaning typically involves gentle dusting with a soft cloth. Because the finish is mineral based and breathable, it remains stable and resists peeling. If minor marks occur, an experienced artisan can often repair or blend the affected area to maintain a consistent appearance.
As Nova matures, the lime content carbonates and strengthens, enhancing the longevity of the finish. This natural aging process brings added subtle character rather than diminishing the beauty of the surface.
Contact for Nova inquiries
For more information about Nova plaster or to request a custom sample board, you may contact plaster artisan Dean Baker Monday through Friday from nine in the morning until six in the evening. You may also send project details and photographs to the office for review.
