Mineral plaster is a natural, lime-based decorative coating that creates depth, movement, and texture far beyond what paint can achieve. Unlike flat wall paint, mineral plaster is hand applied and trowel applied, creating subtle tonal variation and architectural dimension.

At Ethos Terra in Westfield, NJ, we specialize in luxury mineral finishes that slowly reveal themselves as you absorb the space — offering depth, warmth, and timeless character.

Venetian plaster is a polished lime-based plaster that also incorporates marble powder known for its smooth, marble-like finish and soft movement. The marble in the plaster can be burnished to create a highly reflective sheen. 

Marmorino plaster offers a slightly more textured, stone-like aesthetic while maintaining elegance and durability. The aggregate is typically larger than Venetian Plaster.

Both are applied in multiple thin layers using a steel trowel, then compressed and burnished to achieve their distinctive finish. These decorative coatings are ideal for luxury homes, architectural features, and refined interior spaces. They can be made in hundreds of different colors and chroma. Many projects are currently underway in Westfield, Hoboken, Millburn, Bernardsville, Shorthills, Ridgefield, Upper Saddle River, Madison Avenue, 14th St. as well as other areas in New Jersey and New York. 

All Ethos Terra finishes are hand applied using traditional techniques. The process typically includes:

• Surface preparation and priming

• Multiple thin applications of mineral plaster

• Burnishing or compressing the surface

• Optional protective layers such as wax, siloxane clear top coat sealers, or soap stone sealers

Each finish is created intentionally, with artful considerations that respond to the architecture and lighting of the space.

Project timelines vary depending on surface area, detail level, and selected finish. Most decorative plaster installations require multiple days due to layering, curing time, and sealing.

Luxury finishes such as Venetian plaster, mineral plasters or metallic plaster require careful hand application and cannot be rushed. A high polished Venetian plaster requires a minimum of three layers, then the area is compressed with a trowel, burnished and then sealed for protection. The artisan will go over every square foot at least 5 times. The result is a surface with depth, durability, and character that evolves with light throughout the day.

Yes. Properly installed mineral plaster systems are extremely durable. Lime-based plasters naturally harden over time through carbonation. At Ethos Terra we carry a full line of waterproof micro-cements that are lime and mineral based, not acrylic based that can invite mold.  

When protected with appropriate top coats — such as wax, Poly or siloxane sealers — these decorative coatings become highly resistant to abrasion and wear, making them suitable for both residential and commercial architectural applications.

Maintenance is simple:

• Dust with a soft cloth

• Clean gently with a damp microfiber cloth

• Avoid harsh chemical cleaners

• Reapply wax or protective sealers periodically if required

Because these finishes are mineral-based and breathable, they age gracefully. Minor marks can often be spot repaired by an  applicator.

Ethos Terra is based in Westfield, New Jersey, and serves luxury residential and architectural projects throughout the Tri- State areas of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut:

• Westfield NJ 

• Deal NJ 

• Summit NJ 

• Short Hills NJ

• Bernardsville  NJ 

• Manhattan NY 

• Chelsea NYC

• Park Avenue NYC 

• Madison Avenue  NYC 

• Darien CT

• Norwalk CT 

We collaborate with architects, designers, and homeowners seeking refined decorative coatings and luxury finishes.

Ethos Terra was founded by Patrick Marando, who has over 20 years of experience in the decorative arts. His background in hand-applied finishes, architectural coatings, and specialty plasters informs every project with craftsmanship an artistic approach and discipline.

For nearly 15 years he was the owner- operator of Marando & Co. that provided decorative plasters, carpentry, millwork and one of kind commercial projects in Manhattan NYC for: Dream Downtown Hotels, TAO Group, Nur Khan Hospitality, Volenec Studio, Leyden Lewis Design Studio, Rockwell Group Architects, Handel Architects, Marquee Nightclubs, The Avenue Supper Club, 

This experience allows Ethos Terra to approach each space not just as a surface — but as an artistic and architectural composition.

Absolutely. Metallic plaster, polished Venetian finishes, textured Marmorino, and custom decorative coatings can all be tailored in tone, movement, and sheen.

Because each surface is hand applied, no two walls are ever identical. Many finishes are subtle — revealing their full character slowly as you live within the space.

Hand-applied mineral plaster creates:

• Architectural depth

• Organic movement

• Natural breathability

• Long-term durability

• A sense of artistry and permanence

• A wall that tells a story and communicates through materiality 

Luxury architecture demands surfaces that feel intentional. Plaster is not simply applied — it is composed.