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Architecture/Smooth Stucco
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Question
Hi, Mr. Taylor.
I've been playing with the idea of building a house, but I'd like it to look old--like the spanish or cotswold style houses built in the 1920's and 30's.
I've noticed that one thing the old houses have in common is a very smooth stucco finish, giving more of a plastered look. Is there a product or technique that can give this effect, today?
Thanks, Kitty
Hi Kitty - thanks for your question!
A modern stucco finish can easily be made as smooth as you like; it's really just a matter of how much sand is in the mix, and how the finish is trowelled.
Generally, however, a smooth finish is not as durable as a textured one; is more prone to cracking; and is more difficult to create a uniform color with.
The older finishes you like required regular maintenance.
It can be done, but you may not be happy with the long-term results.
Hope this helps!
Richard Taylor, AIA
www.rtastudio.com
www.rtaplans.com
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Ah, very interesting. I guess that's why you don't see that finish anymore. Still, I'm really stuck on it. It's one of those fine details that makes a big difference. Gotta think about this, I guess. Well, thank you so much for the info. I've been searching the web for months for an answer to that question! Now I have something to go on. Thanks, again. Kitty | ||
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Answers by Expert:
Richard Taylor, AIA
Expertise
Ask me about all aspects of house, remodeling. , and room addition design and construction. Ask me about historic homes, renovation, and restoration. Ask me about materials and techniques, and about how you can get the best value for your design and construction dollar. Ask me how you can make your home a very special place. I can't, however, answer specific structural engineering questions in this forum - that's something you'll need on-site observation for.
Experience
I own a full-service residential architectural firm, and have been designing custom homes, remodelings, and room additions across the country since 1983. Check us out at Richard Taylor Architects and RTA Plans. I have written and been published extensively on the subject of residential architecture.
Organizations
American Institute of Architects, City of Dublin Architectural Review Board, Vice Chair of City of Dublin Planning and Zoning Commission, American Planning Association, Board Member Historic Dublin Business Association, Past Editor of SPLASH (a software forum), Past Editor of Open Directory Project, Assistant Scoutmaster, Boy Scouts of America
Publications
Business First of Columbus, Suburban New Publications, About.com, Cleveland Plain Dealer, Columbus Dispatch Residential Architect
Custom Home Architect
Remodeling Architect
Education/Credentials
Bachelor of Environmental Design (Architecture) Miami University 1983
For more about home design, check out my blog at Sense Of Place and join the conversation on our Facebook Page.
Awards and Honors
2010 Dublin Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year
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