So much of the work I do is about making a space beautiful with a mural, decorative paint finish or specialty surface treatment -- but I also enjoy the challenge that comes when I need to make things blend in with faux painting!
This was the case on a recent project where I needed to make an HVAC unit and the surrounding pipes disappear into the background of the surrounding bricks. In addition to matching the various colors of the bricks and mortar, I also needed to replicate the aged look and the distressed whitewashing.
First, I needed to prime the unit (my “before” picture is partially primed) to insure the adhesion of the paint. With this complete, I painted everything the colors of the mortar – which I achieved with 4 colors to get the textured and speckled look. Once this was dry, I needed to tape off the brick pattern, leaving the mortar covered. I then painted each brick – making sure to match the colors and also include the variation of the original bricks. Each brick was individually painted with multiple colors to make them look authentic.
Once my brick colors were complete, I was able to create the look of the distressed whitewashing as well as some of the staining of the area around the unit.
In the end, my client was thrilled! These shots were taken up close from the surrounding garden. When viewed from the driveway (another 6 feet back), the pipes and HVAC unit blend right in!
Enjoy!
Jason
The HVAC unit and pipes before faux painting (partially primed)
Starting the painting of the bricks!
The final result!