Cumberland Terrace Stucco Restoration

The Challenge

Crown Estate specifications for the Nash Terraces are among the most exacting in British conservation, prescribing precise materials, methods, and colour references that must be followed without deviation. The Keim mineral paint system, while offering superior breathability and longevity on historic lime render, requires specialist knowledge and application technique quite different from conventional masonry paints. The elaborate Ionic capitals and decorative mouldings demanded careful hand-finishing that no spray application could achieve.

Our Approach

We began by attending a specification briefing with the Crown Estate's surveyor to confirm every detail of the required materials and methods. The stucco was thoroughly cleaned using a low-pressure water wash, and all cracks and defects in the render were repaired with a Crown Estate-approved lime mortar. We then applied the Keim Granital mineral paint system: a preparatory Fixativ silicate primer coat to ensure proper mineralisation with the lime substrate, followed by two coats of Keim Granital silicate paint in the prescribed Crown Estate cream. The decorative capitals and mouldings were painted by hand using brushes to ensure full coverage of every profile and undercut. External joinery was prepared and finished with a durable exterior eggshell in the approved off-white.

The Result

The completed facade section is indistinguishable in colour and texture from the most recently restored portions of Cumberland Terrace, achieving the uniform appearance that the Crown Estate requires across the entire composition. The Crown Estate surveyor approved the work at first inspection, noting the quality of the hand-finishing on the Ionic capitals as particularly commendable. The mineral paint system will provide a breathable, maintenance-friendly finish expected to last fifteen to twenty years.