Denver-based Aria was founded in 2004 by Chris and his wife, Michelle Lobato. Chris is an expert in architectural stone treatments, Venetian plaster application, and mantelpiece design.
All photos courtesy of Aria
Over the course of his two decades of utilizing plaster and limestone, the same materials used across Italy and greater Europe for centuries, Chris Lobata has developed a number of unique techniques that allow him to satisfy almost any specific look a client may request, from intricate stenciling patterns to any number of wall textures or carved stone surfaces. He enjoys experimenting in his studio to expand his range of methods and results and has taught a number of aspiring artisans to become adept with these time-tested products. Chris takes his inspiration from old world European craftsmanship and the timeless buildings of classical antiquity. He is also an accomplished opera singer.
Venetian plaster is a uniquely versatile material that can be used to create a variety of surface finishes and textures on the interiors and exteriors of buildings. Endless color possibilities contribute to the appeal of this functional and adaptable material.
The aesthetic effects of real Venetian plaster are unmatched. Products that claim to be “Venetian plaster” do not compare to authentic plaster. The reason behind this is the composition of the real plaster, which is composed of seasoned slaked lime, marble, quartz, colored earth, and natural pigments.
Venetian plasters begin as Dolomitic limestone rocks harvested from the rivers of northern Italy. The traditional method requires the river stones to be cooked for 10 days at 900℃, then hydrated, slaked and seasoned for a minimum of two years. Troweled onto your walls, the plaster solidify back into stone by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere in the curing process over time.
Appropriate for either indoor or outdoor use, Venetian plaster is an all natural material that can be applied in a variety of different surface finishes and textures, giving an array of aesthetic options. As light refracts on the plasters, the colors are enriched as they return to your senses, giving organic warmth to your walls and to your rooms.
Join us this summer in Technology Designer magazine for an extended conversation with Chris and his team at Aria where we will explore the ancient history of this fascinating material and Aria’s modern application techniques.
