BLOG

Black Tadelakt Fireplace

When I get asked to create samples for fireplaces its always something new. This house was no exception with a 14 foot tall fireplace as the main feature to the living area. The clients wanted dark. The pictures of the concepts they showed had a metal look. I decided that Tadelakt Italian Lime plaster was the best material for the project. Tadelakt comes in powder instead of paste. Tadelakt is a feebly hydraulic lime similar to NHL 3.5. The powder form gives the installer the ability to add larger amounts of colorants if needed, although this can effect the working properties of the Lime plaster material if excessive amounts of colorant are used.

Waxed Tadelakt Fireplace Hearth

The end finish we created is polished to an effect of gun metal with hints of bronze metallic which add an undertone of brown to this black Tadelakt fireplace. The hearth was waxed to add extra protection and differentiate the upper and lower area of the fireplace. I can’t wait to see photos when the wood burning fireplace is running this fall/winter. Lime plaster is a non-combustible material making it a great finishing material for hi-heat applications.

Here are some photos of the progress of building out the fireplace and getting things ready for finish coat.

IMG_4071

IMG_4072

IMG_4078

Enjoying a glass of wine at the end of hard work day.
IMG_4340

One thing about working on an Island is making sure you have “everything” you need. It felt like I brought everything but the kitchen sink.

IMG_4375

 

As this project nears its end we get a chance to enjoy a few moments of reflection, to think of all the hard work that goes into our clients projects and everyone involved. I will miss the early morning coffee and scenic views.

IMG_4343

IMG_4374

Getting the opportunity to work with LarkGroup on the Venetian plaster interior and exterior polished plaster walls was an experience to remember. This was our 1st experience working directly over poured 12″ thick concrete walls. IBI Architecture  was the lead architect on the project. The design and materials used on the project were impecable and timeless, with a use of concrete, wood, plaster and glass.
Hope-Centre-Entrance

Hope-Centre-Lobby

Hope Centre Lions Gate Hospital Venetian Plaster Interior/Exterior from Darrell Morrison on Vimeo.

Working with the design team and builder, we were able to create a polished Venetian lime plaster that would meet the detailed rules of leed compliance and sustainability , using a natural material like lime and marble to create a bespoke highly polished wall substrate for the exterior feature walls and 5 storey interior stairwell.

The monolithic design of this ultra-contemporary fireplace was designed using a two stage Italian lime plaster system capable of withstanding the heat of a modern linear gas flame. Coloured to match the wet concrete, the finish was then waxed & polished to a sheen to capture the light dancing around the room through the 12′ windows. The fireplace was inset to give it the appearance that it is just floating within the structure.



This project was featured on houzz and you can view it here