James Alexander Specialty Paints
For a more luxe paint experience, James Alexander Specialty Paints uses a natural wall finish based on mineral limestone, offering both a stylish and sustainable look for any wall. Providing a mottled matte finish, the company’s paints are reminiscent of hand-plastered walls. With its depth and dimension , its unique limewash also adds an instant upgrade to any surrounding décor.
Co-founder Amanda Dunn tells us about what separates the limewashing process from traditional paints and how to customize certain hues for the haute look you’ve been looking to add to your home.
When did the company launch?
James Alexander Specialty Paints was founded in 2021 with the mission of creating architectural finishes that are both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally responsible.
What is limewash?
Limewash paint is a truly distinctive product, hailing from a time-tested recipe that works in harmony with nature. The key ingredient, limestone, is heated and transformed into quicklime, which
is then slaked with water to create a putty. This putty is aged and thinned with water, and natural pigments are added for color.
Unlike modern paints, authentic limewash does not contain additional paint binders, such as acrylics or latex. Instead, it relies on the natural process of carbonation to cure and harden. This calcification process occurs when the limewash reacts with carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. The result is a breathable, protective layer that boasts a unique velvety texture and calcite crystal structure, producing a beautiful effect that simply cannot be replicated with conventional latex or oil-based paints.
What are some of the biggest trends in the industry right now?
Current trends in limewash paint highlight the technique of “color drenching,” whereby both walls and ceilings are coated in the same hue. This aesthetic enhances the enveloping and soothing visual appeal characteristic of limewash. (See Calcare photograph, attached.)
Traditionally, limewash has been tinted with subtle earth tones, a trend that is currently experiencing a revival in interior design palettes. Calm neutrals offer a sophisticated sense of tranquility, while more bright neutrals are being used to enhance light within spaces.
Additionally, the use of limewash in vibrant pops of color on accent walls or features is gaining traction. We are seeing pinks and greens being added to accents to provide contrast and interest.
What are some things people should know about when choosing the right paint colors?
Unlike traditional paint, the color of limewash that you select will influence the perceived texture of the finish. Deeper hues tend to exhibit greater contrast, further accentuating the distinct mottled effect intrinsic to limewash finishes. Conversely, lightly tinted and pastel shades yield a more subtle finish, aligning with the traditional aesthetics of limewash applications.
How do you use limewash to create a custom shade?
While we do not create custom colors for clients, all of our limewashes are able to be mixed to create a custom hue for your design project. We always recommend mixing the limewash in a separate container so that you can experiment with the color ratios.
