Let's Talk Paint: Part 3 (Final)

As I provoke thought as it relates to paint practices in the Territory, I will now provide information of lime wash paint formulas, techniques and examples. With this information, we can become more informed on what can be done to own towns to make them look better and, as a result, create healthier spaces. To begin, let me provide some paint formulas that are derived from historic techniques used to inject color into plastered masonry and wooden surfaces. The lime mortar mix is used over rubble wall surfaces and can have pigment added to it to give the surface a longer color life span. Lime wash paint should always be made with organic pigments to ensure a natural mottled (light and dark) effect occurs over time achieving that "Old World" look that is so appropriate in our historic towns. Linseed Oil paint is used on shutters. The life span of this paint is longer than latex on wood and can be revived using the lime putty described below. The lime putty formula is also a caulking agent that expands and contracts as wood heats up and cools down. The putty is also used to fill joints between wood planks and gives the surface an even finish.

To read more information about lime wash paint, you can go to the link below.
http://www.earthpigments.com/lime/lime-wash.cfm

A resurgence of interest in lime wash paint is truly needed in all our historic towns. When people travel to far away places, they can sense the age of a place not only from the architecture that exists there, but by the patina and finishes on these structures. Using lime wash paint on our buildings as a standard would yield that antique patina instantaneously. A unique quality of lime wash paint is that it can be affixed to more contemporary Portland cement plaster finishes. Therefore, even new construction infill in our towns can be coated with this lime wash paint to make them become more sympathetic to the districts. Lime wash paint is also classified as a green construction material. 

To conclude this paint series, here are great examples of appropriate color schemes, lime wash and wood painted applications that clearly give these unique historic structures beautiful patinas and keep them looking historic,  elegant and truly belonging to the United States Virgin Islands.

Danish School - Frederiksted

Preservation Award Winner - National Trust for Historic Preservation

Sion Farm Greathouse

7 Flags Building - Frederiksted

To reiterate this point, the streetscape is one of the most important features in our historic towns and when a soft subtle palette is used, the rich proportions and distinct detailing become visible and preserve our authentic character. This signature architecture and sense of place is a true fusion of the Danish Colonial Architecture paired with the highly skilled enslaved and subsequently freed African Craftsmen that erected these stunning buildings. They tell a unique story that we all are responsible to help conserve and preserve for generations to come. 

Sunday Market Square Christiansted

King Cross Street Christiansted

Company Street Christiansted