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
This oversized fireplace required a unique and durable product to achieve the “cast in place” look the designer wanted. Custom finishing the fireplace in a a hand- applied two tone polished Tadelakt lime plaster allowed us to highlight both the smooth sweeping curves and the crisp edges that the design called for. This Venetian lime plaster is akin to a warm concrete colour, with a subtle texture this is picked up in the lighting.
This Tadelakt fireplace was excited issuing 3 coats of Italian lime based venetian plaster. With its slightly polished sheen and honed limestone finish.
Tadelakt Custom Fireplace Surround and Mantel from Darrell Morrison on Vimeo.
Modern architecture with matte Tadelakt Venetian plaster concrete looking walls. Venetian Plaster Canada
This Stunning West Coast Contemporary home featured many modern elements including exposed wood beams and stainless steel countertops. The walls were designed using a custom tone limestone plaster that was installed between powder coated steel reveals. The ability to apply the limestone plaster material to unique substrates also made it possible to plaster two doors seamlessly integrated into the wall system that are completely hidden when closed.
The architect for the renovation Kevin O’Leary was the catalyst and idea man. We worked together in designing how the plaster system would work together. Being involved with a project like this from the substrate up to final completion helped insure all the components would flow together seamlessly and any errors could be caught before the project is to far forward. The Tadelakt lime plaster has a smooth velvet touch with a matte finish and subtle texture invoking the touch of your hand as you walk past.
It was equally important the design of the new kitchen respect the quality and intent of the existing architecture, the home originally designed by Seattle-based architect Roland Terry. The new design keeps to a monochromatic colour scheme with a highly crafted use of wood, terrazzo, plaster and steel to mirror the finishes seen elsewhere in the residence.
Before the Christmas break we tackled one last major project the Versace Vancouver store on Thurlow and Alberni in downtown Vancouver. Getting the opportunity to work on the Versace Vancouver store was a challenge in every aspect. The combination of a legendary brand, working on challenging substrates, and an extremely tight time line to be ready for the Vogue party, made it a truly memorable project. The uniqueness of the interior design was incredibly inspiring. Specifications called for curved wood cabinetry and floating glass that had to be united into a flawless white distress Italian lime plaster sealed with Marsi soap wax to give it a velvety touch and durability. With trades working around the clock, the only option was to be positive and work together as a team. Our team managed to complete almost 30 days of work in under 10 days, those were not your average shifts. If asked to do it again I would not hesitate to say yes! Check the story on Retail Insider
Versace Vancouver Italian Lime Plaster from Darrell Morrison on Vimeo.
Board form concrete has become a popular tool in the plaster industry this past year. We were involved with a project on Galiano Island this summer. As well as plastering the fireplace that scaled 15′ to the ceiling, we also made custom GFRC benches and a hearth in a medium grey concrete. The end result is quite stunning. Would you consider board form concrete for you project? Micro concrete plaster finishes make it possible to do thin coats reducing weight restriction issues and having the ability to control the colour and texture of your projected vision.
Here are some of the before shoots
When I was approached for this fireplace in the spring of 2015 I thought to my self wow what a beast, this fireplace would be a killer retrofit from the old style of red brick. The clients had done there home work and wanted an Italian lime plaster for its beauty and versatility in colour choices and texture, we ended up using Cadoro Italian Lime Plaster Intonachio in a two tone custom colour made in house at our studio. From start to completion we handled all the construction.
This past week I was able to express my creativity on a large ceiling in downtown Vancouver. Installing silver leaf, in a setting like this condo it can be difficult to say the least and with clients living in the environment special precautions must be taken to protect there space and furniture. Sticking with my madness I like to stray away from perfect lines and symmetry. It was a joy to work in this Vancouver penthouse with the designer and clients. The silver leaf ceiling will provide years of conversation among friends and family
what makes a beautiful plaster come to life isn’t just the sheen or the colour, it’s the ability to incorporate a clients vision into a piece of art that will last a life time and beyond – Darrell Morrison
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