Romano Plaster Finishes by Venetian Application Inc
Romano is a distinguished Italian plaster finish inspired by the strength and depth of natural stone. Known for its rugged stone like texture, earthy elegance and sculptural presence, Romano brings a sense of architectural permanence into interior spaces. Venetian Application Inc applies Romano using authentic Italian materials and techniques shaped by more than forty eight years of plastering experience. Artisan Dean Baker uses controlled hand movements to guide the material into a textured finish that feels both natural and intentional.
Romano is ideal for clients who appreciate finishes that display character, tactile interest and visual depth. The finish can be shaped to appear warm and rustic, refined and structural or richly detailed. Because Romano is lime based, it strengthens through carbonation and remains breathable, allowing it to age gracefully over time. This makes Romano a preferred choice for residential homes, luxury estates, boutique commercial interiors, hospitality environments and architectural installations that require authenticity and durability.
Venetian Application Inc provides Romano plaster finishes across Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Malibu, Santa Monica, Pasadena, West Hollywood and many surrounding communities.

The defining qualities of Romano plaster
Romano is a mineral rich plaster composed of lime and stone powders that allow the artisan to create depth, texture and subtle variation. While smooth Italian finishes emphasize clarity and polish, Romano celebrates the sculptural qualities of natural stone.
Key qualities of Romano include:
• stone inspired texture with three dimensional detail
• organic movement shaped by layered mineral content
• soft matte surface with natural shadowing
• earthy character that complements many architectural styles
• durability supported by lime based composition
Romano responds beautifully to natural light. Shadows settle into the recesses of the texture while highlights form on raised areas. This interaction creates a sense of sculptural depth similar to aged stone surfaces found in historic Italian architecture.
Romano in interior and architectural design
Romano is a versatile finish that supports a wide range of design intentions. In modern spaces it contrasts clean lines with natural texture. In rustic or traditional environments it reinforces organic materials such as stone, wood and metal. Romano adds strength and grounding to any room.
Designers often select Romano for:
• fireplaces and architectural focal points
• feature walls in living rooms and dining areas
• stair halls and entryways
• boutique hotel and hospitality interiors
• wine rooms and tasting spaces
• outdoor covered areas where lime plaster is appropriate
• commercial reception spaces
Romano works exceptionally well in areas that call for texture and distinction. Its presence can be subtle or bold depending on the depth of the application.
How Romano differs from other Italian plaster finishes
Romano is significantly more textured than smooth finishes such as Marmorino, Marmorino Two, Nova or Veneziano. While those surfaces emphasize clarity and smoothness, Romano highlights texture and dimension.
Compared to Travertino, which focuses on linear stone channels, Romano offers more organic and less directional movement. It also differs from Pietra, which can be shaped to mimic carved stone but often appears more refined. Romano tends to carry a slightly deeper and more rustic impression.
Romano contrasts with artistic finishes like Murs D Art or Fiorentino, which emphasize expressive movement rather than stone inspired structure. Romano remains grounded in architectural texture rather than artistic gesture.
In comparison to Pesto or Lugano, Romano has a more pronounced tactile quality. It introduces strong presence into a room while still allowing the artisan to regulate how bold or subtle the final effect becomes.
The Romano application process
Applying Romano requires detailed knowledge of material behavior and the ability to control texture with precision. The process begins with careful preparation of the substrate. Because Romano incorporates texture, any inconsistencies in the surface must be corrected to ensure a cohesive result.
The application typically involves several mineral rich layers. The first coat establishes adhesion and begins building stone like depth. Additional coats are shaped through varied trowel movements, lifting and smoothing the plaster to create natural stone inspired forms.
During application, Dean uses different pressures and angles to form valleys, soft ridges and mineral transitions. The goal is to create texture that appears authentic rather than repetitive or mechanically produced. Romano requires a balance of structure and refinement to avoid appearing artificial.
Once the plaster reaches the correct curing stage, additional shaping may be performed to blend transitions or soften strong areas. Depending on the intended use, a protective treatment may be applied after curing to maintain durability and enhance the matte mineral appearance.

Areas served
Venetian Application Inc offers Romano plaster finishes throughout Beverly Hills, Malibu, Santa Monica, Pasadena, West Hollywood, Culver City, Carson, Gardena, Hawthorne, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, Torrance, Inglewood and many surrounding communities. Services are also available in selected regions of Orange County and San Diego County.
Design variations available with Romano
Romano can be tailored to achieve a variety of stone effects. Popular variations include:
Soft Romano
Gentle texture and subtle transitions suitable for modern interiors that benefit from natural warmth.
Traditional Romano
More pronounced texture with stone like shading reminiscent of historic architecture.
Sculpted Romano
A deeper, more dramatic application ideal for fireplaces, arches or focal walls requiring strong visual impact.
Refined Romano
A balanced version with controlled texture that complements upscale interior design.
Colour selection and custom sampling
Romano accepts a wide palette of mineral pigments, including warm earth tones, soft greys, sand tones, muted browns and atmospheric contemporary colours. Venetian Application Inc provides custom sample boards so clients can preview tone, depth and texture under their actual lighting conditions.
Sampling ensures accurate colour selection and alignment with the desired design direction before the final application begins.
Maintenance and long term durability
Romano is a durable and long lasting finish when properly cared for. Routine cleaning involves gentle dust removal with a soft cloth. Because the finish is mineral based and breathable, it resists peeling and surface failure. If minor marks appear, a skilled artisan can often blend or repair the affected area without visible transitions.
As Romano ages, it matures through carbonation and gains additional character. This natural evolution enhances the finish and contributes to its architectural appeal.
Contact for Romano inquiries
For information about Romano plaster or to request a custom sample, you may contact plaster artisan Dean Baker during business hours from Monday through Friday, nine in the morning until six in the evening. Project descriptions and photographs may also be sent to the office for review.


