FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Our pricing is project-based, not hourly, because every Venetian plaster, Roman clay, or limewash finish is unique. We provide a detailed, fixed-price quote after visit, no hidden fees or surprises.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Our process for new customers is designed to be transparent, respectful of your home, and focused on delivering a premium handcrafted finish. Here's how it works: 1. Initial contact: You describe your project, room type, square footage, desired finish (Venetian plaster, Roman clay, limewash, stain, faux painting, etc.). We respond within 24 hours. 2. Consultation & quote: We schedule a visit to your home. We assess wall conditions, discuss color options, provide samples if needed, and give you a fixed-price, detailed quote, no hourly surprises. 3. Quote & contract: If you approve the quote, we send a formal contract with scope of work, timeline, payment schedule (typically 30% deposit, 40% at mid-point, 30% upon completion), and warranty terms. 4. Scheduling & preparation: We schedule the project at your convenience. Before starting, we fully protect your floors, furniture, countertops, and fixtures with plastic, paper, and tape. 5. Execution: We apply all layers according to the specific finish, from primer to final sealant. We work clean, tidy up at the end of each day, and maintain clear communication. 6. Final walkthrough & touch-ups: You inspect the work with us. Any small adjustments are made immediately. We remove all protections and clean the area thoroughly. 7. Warranty & follow-up: We provide a 1 year warranty (depending on the finish) against application defects.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have over 8 years of hands-on experience in decorative finishing in Brazil, Portugal and California, combined with formal training and continuous education in traditional and modern techniques. Here's a summary: Formal training & certifications: · Licensed by the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) – classification C-33 (Painting and Decorating) – license #1082615. · Advanced Venetian Plaster training – courses with certified Italian masters (including techniques from Marmorino, Grassello, and polished plasters). · Roman Clay & Limewash certification – through Portola Paints (one of the leading U.S. suppliers of luxury lime-based finishes). · Faux finishing & wood graining workshops – with the Society of Decorative Painters and independent master artisans. On-the-job training: · 8+ years of field experience in San Diego County, working on luxury homes in Del Mar, Rancho Santa Fe, La Jolla, Encinitas, Carlsbad, and Solana Beach. · Worked alongside architects and interior designers on custom residential and commercial projects. Continuing education: · Annual workshops on new materials, sustainable finishes, and application tools. · Safety training (OSHA) for lead-safe practices and job site protection. What this means for you: You're hiring a licensed, trained, and tested professional.