This service delivers mineral-based Venetian plaster and complementary faux finishes that add depth, sheen, or texture to interior surfaces. It covers assessment of substrates, sample creation, multi-coat application by trowel, burnishing or polishing, sealing or waxing where appropriate, and guidance on care. Suitable areas include feature walls, ceilings, niches, fireplace surrounds, accent columns, powder rooms, and primary baths (with the correct sealer or Tadelakt in splash zones).
Finishes offered
- Venetian plaster: Marmorino, Grassello (polished, satin, or matte)
- Tadelakt (traditional lime plaster for wet areas with soapstone sealing)
- Limewash and mineral paints for velvety, breathable color
- Faux techniques: color wash, strié, metallic plaster, concrete/stone and travertine effects, soft texture builds
- Protective layers: natural waxes, microcrystalline wax, mineral sealers
Where it fits in a remodel
- Elevates drywall and plaster surfaces without installing stone or tile
- Works as a focal finish in living rooms, entries, dining rooms, and stairwells
- Complements tile or stone in baths and spas when specified and sealed correctly
- Brings continuity across walls and ceilings with controlled sheen
Process overview
- Consultation and samples: palette, sheen, movement level; on-site or board mockups
- Substrate prep: skim coat, sanding, repair of joints and corners, priming for adhesion
- Application: multiple thin coats by trowel; controlled drying between coats
- Finish: burnishing for depth and light play; optional waxing or sealing
- Cure and protection: dust control, masking, controlled humidity and temperature
- Final walk-through: care instructions, touch-up plan, and documentation
Surface preparation
- Requires smooth, stable substrates; gypsum board, plaster, cement board, or masonry
- Corrects minor waviness; addresses cracks and fastener telegraphing
- Uses compatible primers and bonding coats to ensure even absorption
Coordination with other trades
- Scheduled after drywall finishing and before final electrical trim and fixtures near finished walls
- Works alongside painters for adjacent color transitions and masking
- Coordinates with tile and stone installers for wet-area sequencing and movement joints
- Protects floors, cabinetry, and millwork; ventilation planned to support safe curing
Quality expectations
- Uniform movement and sheen appropriate to the selected finish
- Clean terminations at trim edges, corners, and penetrations
- Approved mockup used as the visual benchmark
- Tolerances for flatness and texture communicated before work begins
Typical timeline
- Sample board: 2–5 days including approvals
- Standard room: 2–5 working days plus cure time
- Wet-area systems (e.g., Tadelakt): longer due to sealing and cure requirements
Care and maintenance
- Clean with soft cloths and pH-neutral cleaners; avoid abrasives and harsh chemicals
- Re-wax or re-seal intervals vary by finish and traffic; guidance provided at handover
- Localized touch-ups are feasible on many finishes with proper blending
Materials and performance
- Lime-based, low-VOC or VOC-free plasters; mineral pigments for stable color
- Breathable assemblies reduce trapped moisture in suitable applications
- Heat-tolerant near fireplaces when sealed, while observing clearance guidelines
Limitations and considerations
- Not intended for constant immersion or steam without a suitable system (use Tadelakt where specified)
- Requires sound substrates; not applied over failing paint or active moisture issues
- Environmental conditions (temperature, humidity) affect schedule and finish quality
Deliverables at completion
- Finish schedule and color/sheens used
- Care and maintenance guide
- Touch-up material or product references
- Note of any environmental or seasonal cure considerations
Options and upgrades
- Metallic-infused plasters for low shimmer
- Deep-burnished high-gloss walls for mirror-like reflection
- Soft textured matte plasters for light diffusion
- Integrated stencils or subtle patterns where design calls for it
This service provides a tactile, light-responsive finish crafted by hand, bridging durability and nuance without resorting to heavy cladding.
