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Walk into a space finished with authentic Roman Clay or lime wash and you know immediately it's not paint. These materials have texture, depth, and a quality that registers before a guest can explain why. Dream Team Finishes applies the full range of curated artisan finishes for hotels, restaurants, and high-end commercial interiors across the Southeast.
We applied Portola Roman Clay behind the bar at Little Coyote — Chattanooga's Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant — and lime wash throughout The Vault Speakeasy inside The Waymark Hotel. See the project.
Curated Finishes
Artisan finishes for spaces that demand more than paint.
Conversion Varnish
A catalyzed finish that cross-links chemically as it cures — producing a significantly harder and more chemically resistant surface than standard varnish or lacquer. The professional standard for commercial cabinetry and high-use millwork in hospitality environments. Requires spray equipment, controlled conditions, and correct catalyst ratios.
High-Gloss Finishes
High gloss shows every imperfection — which is why most contractors avoid it on large commercial surfaces. We build up the surface with high-fill primers, block-sand between coats, and apply topcoats with the patience the finish demands. When done right, the result is a level of depth and drama that flat finishes simply can't achieve.
Stain
Consistent stain application across large surfaces, multiple wood species, and varying grain patterns. We apply penetrating stains, gel stains, and toner systems to wood floors, millwork, paneling, and architectural elements — matching color specs and delivering the even appearance commercial interiors demand.
Lacquer
A fast-drying, hard-film finish that delivers depth and clarity standard paint can't achieve. The right choice for bar fronts, millwork, feature walls, and furniture-grade surfaces where the finish needs to both perform and impress. Applied with spray equipment for the consistency and film quality a lacquer requires.
Lime Wash
A soft, suede-like mineral finish that develops a natural patina over time. Breathable, eco-friendly, and distinctly different from paint — it's the right call when a space needs texture and character without the weight of Roman Clay. We used it in The Vault at The Waymark to create an atmosphere that matches the building's 1920s history.
Portola Paints — Roman Clay
A soft, suede-like mineral finish that develops a natural patina over time. Breathable, eco-friendly, and distinctly different from paint — it's the right call when a space needs texture and character without the weight of Roman Clay. We used it in The Vault at The Waymark to create an atmosphere that matches the building's 1920s history.
Services
What We Paint
Can you do high-gloss on large wall surfaces?
Yes — but it requires serious prep. High gloss amplifies every imperfection. We build up, sand between coats, and apply topcoats with the patience the finish demands. Done right, it's worth it.
What's the difference between lacquer and conversion varnish?
Conversion varnish is catalyzed — it cross-links chemically as it cures, producing a harder and more resistant surface than lacquer. It's the professional standard for commercial cabinetry and millwork that takes daily abuse.
Are you an authorized Portola Paints applicator?
Yes. We apply the full Portola system — Roman Clay, Lime Wash, associated primers and clearcoats — with no substitutions. The finish is only as good as the complete system.
What is Roman Clay and how is it different from regular paint?
Roman Clay is a mineral-based finish made from naturally derived pigments, applied in thin hand-troweled layers. It has real physical texture, depth that changes with light, and a quality no standard paint can replicate. Once sealed, it performs in high-traffic commercial environments.