Climblance Atelier
Est. 2014 • San Francisco

Craftsmanship rooted
in nature's patience.

We train professionals to transform surfaces with precision and respect for natural materials.

OUR ORIGIN

From basement studio
to global standard.

Climblance Atelier began when founder Marcus Hale discovered centuries-old lime-wash techniques during a restoration project in Northern California. What started as an experiment in his garage quickly evolved into a rigorous methodology now taught to professionals across three continents.

MISSION

We believe surfaces should
age beautifully, not fade.

01

Sustainably Sourced

Every material we teach is traceable, low-VOC, and chosen for longevity over trends.

02

Mastery Through Practice

We reject shortcuts. Our training emphasizes muscle memory and surface intuition.

03

Timeless Instruction

Graduates leave with a methodology that improves every job for decades to come.

THE CLIMBLANCE METHOD

A 6-stage process
refined over 12 years.

01 Substrate diagnostics & test patches
02 Mineral preparation & custom mixing
03 Layered application with breathable finishes
04 Burnishing, aging & patina development
05 Protective topcoats & maintenance protocols
06 Post-project documentation for clients
THE PEOPLE

Guided by masters,
not marketers.

Work with us
Marcus Hale
Founder & Head Instructor

Former restoration lead at the California Palace of the Legion of Honor. 19+ years of hands-on experience with aged plasters and mineral finishes.

Elena Voss
Curriculum Director

Former professor at the Royal College of Art. Develops all technical modules and certification standards for Climblance programs.

Jamal Ortiz
Master Practitioner

Apprenticed under Italian heritage artisans in Puglia for 7 years. Specializes in lime and casein techniques for commercial spaces.

Ready to become part of the story?