Featuring 2 “Jacket” and “Rustica”
Hi there, Matt DeHaan here from DeHaan Painting in Charlotte, NC. Today, I want to take you through the process of using Portola’s Roman Clay to create stunning, impactful interiors. Recently, we had the pleasure of helping a homeowner bring their vision to life using the colors Jacket and Rustica—each carefully selected to add texture, drama, and a touch of sophistication to their home.

The Power of Portola Roman Clay
Roman Clay is a specialty finish from Portola Paints that delivers a soft, matte texture reminiscent of Venetian plaster. Made from natural limestone, it offers depth, movement, and an organic feel that can transform any space. Unlike traditional paint, Roman Clay creates a multi-dimensional surface with a luxurious, hand-applied look.
The Design Vision: Impactful & Dramatic Spaces
For this project, we focused on two key areas:
- Wine Room: A space meant for intimate gatherings and relaxation, we chose Jacket, a deep, moody hue that exudes richness and warmth.
- Hallway to Master Bedroom: A transitional space that deserved more than just plain walls, we used Rustica, a soft, neutral tone that brings warmth and understated elegance.
The Design Vision: Impactful & Dramatic Spaces
For this project, we focused on two key areas:
- Wine Room: A space meant for intimate gatherings and relaxation, we chose Jacket, a deep, moody hue that exudes richness and warmth.
- Hallway to Master Bedroom: A transitional space that deserved more than just plain walls, we used Rustica, a soft, neutral tone that brings warmth and understated elegance.
Helping the Homeowner Choose: Sample Boards
Choosing the right color and finish can be a daunting process, so we made custom sample boards on drywall for the homeowner. This allowed them to see how the colors would interact with their lighting and overall design. By having these samples in hand, they were able to confidently select Jacket for the wine room and Rustica for the hallway.
The Application Process: Bringing Texture to Life
Applying Roman Clay is an art, and our process ensures the perfect finish:
- Surface Preparation: Every project starts with proper prep work. We made sure the walls were clean, smooth, and ready to accept the Roman Clay finish.
- Layering for Depth: Roman Clay is applied in thin, overlapping layers. This creates the unique movement and texture that makes it so special.
- Burnishing for Softness: For this project, we lightly burnished the finish to bring out its natural variation, giving the surfaces a velvety smooth yet visually textured effect.
- Sealing (Optional): In high-traffic areas, we often recommend sealing the finish to ensure durability. For this project, we opted to leave it natural to maintain the raw beauty of the clay.
The Application Process: Bringing Texture to Life
Applying Roman Clay is an art, and our process ensures the perfect finish:
- Surface Preparation: Every project starts with proper prep work. We made sure the walls were clean, smooth, and ready to accept the Roman Clay finish.
- Layering for Depth: Roman Clay is applied in thin, overlapping layers. This creates the unique movement and texture that makes it so special.
- Burnishing for Softness: For this project, we lightly burnished the finish to bring out its natural variation, giving the surfaces a velvety smooth yet visually textured effect.
- Sealing (Optional): In high-traffic areas, we often recommend sealing the finish to ensure durability. For this project, we opted to leave it natural to maintain the raw beauty of the clay.
The Final Result: Elevated Elegance
- The wine room with Jacket turned into a striking yet inviting retreat. The deep, earthy hue created a sense of intimacy, perfect for enjoying a glass of wine in a cozy ambiance.
- The hallway with Rustica added a refined touch to the transition leading into the master bedroom. Instead of being just a pass-through space, it became an extension of the home’s thoughtful design.
Why Trust DeHaan Painting for Your Roman Clay Project?
At DeHaan Painting, we specialize in high-end finishes like Portola Roman Clay, and we take great pride in our craftsmanship. Whether you’re looking for a bold statement wall or a subtle, textural transformation, our team has the experience to bring your vision to life.
Ready to Add Drama and Texture to Your Home?
If you’re considering Roman Clay for your space, let’s chat! We’d love to help you explore colors, create samples, and execute a flawless finish that enhances your home’s character.
Contact DeHaan Painting today to schedule a consultation. Let’s create something extraordinary together!
Helping Thousands of Families in Plaza Midwood, Noda, Chantilly, Dilworth, Elizabeth, Myers Park, South Park, Barclay Downs and Surrounding Areas.
DeHaan Painting
“Charlotte’s Premier Painter”
Dock, Deck, Fence Staining – Interior House Painting – Exterior House Painting – Kitchen Cabinet Painting – Roman Clay Applications – Commercial Painting – Christmas Light Installer
Phone: (980) 224-3191
Email: info@dehaanpaints.com