

The craft lies in the application, with a directional finish leading to a natural effect of distressed stone that has been weathered over the years. With its subtle yet effective variations in colour intensity, dragged polished plaster produces a look of real depth. This is a natural-looking, textured finish that is applied in such a way that it presents a uniformly rough feel. So if you are looking to make a feature of a chimney breast, you could opt for a rippled finish in a striking shade to really make it stand out.Īnother possibility, and one that works beautifully with feature chimney breasts, is dragged polished plaster. The flexibility of this particular choice of Venetian polished plaster means that a variety of textures are possible. Imagine a grand fireplace in a period style home or in a magnificent corporate boardroom, finished in ultra-smooth, marble-like matte or satin Marmorino, either in bright white or one of many elegant shades to suit the surroundings. Its natural lime base means that it reacts well to extreme heat, making it perfect for use in such settings. Venetian polished plaster makes an excellent choice for fireplaces, mantel and chimney breasts. Venetian plaster fireplace surround or chimney breast Restaurants, hotels and institutions across the world all play host to such features and, because polished plaster can be applied in such a way that it mimics the look of natural stone such as marble or Travertine, it is perfect for traditional and period buildings where a finish that is sympathetic to the fabric and appeal of the times is fitting. Many a high end establishment has used polished plaster to great effect to stage amazing staircases that contrast beautifully with the rest of the surroundings.

Pretty much any curved surface can be covered with polished plaster. Venetian plaster staircases and columnsīecause Venetian plaster is so flexible, it is perfect for use on staircases and stairwells, and on smooth or textured columns too. From stencilled feature walls to logo branding, from metallic finishes to pearlescent effects, when you opt for Venetian polished plaster for your feature wall, the results will be nothing short of spectacular. Interiors experts often put it to use in creating everything from zone dividers or media walls in domestic settings, to eye-catching promotional boards in commercial lobbies or reception areas.Ĭombine with inset display areas to house collections of objet d’art, or to showcase branded lines in a high end retail outlet. Venetian plaster feature wallsīecause Venetian plaster is available in a vast array of colours, from elegantly subtle pastel shades to ultra-bold reds, blues, greens and even blacks, there is every opportunity to use it to create wow-factor feature walls. Whether it’s bringing a commercial space to life, or restoring a period property, there really is so much you can do with polished plaster.

Used for centuries and dating back to ancient Roman times, Venetian plaster complements any type of interior, from the traditional through to the most contemporary. With a whole spectrum of possibilities, from deeply textured choices through to ultra-smooth finishes, and with an entire kaleidoscope of colour washes to choose from too, the versatility of this product really is endless. Polished plaster is mould resistant, never retaining moisture behind the surface, making it ideal for use in bathrooms and around pool sides. It is practical too, drying quickly after exposure to water. There are certain types of Venetian plaster that can be used on previously painted surfaces too.ĭrying down to a hard, durable finish, polished plaster presents a striking depth of character. This lime-based finish adheres best to porous substrates, and can be applied to properly prepared brick, cement board, plasterboard and concrete. Venetian polished plaster can be used to great effect on walls and ceilings, as well as curved surfaces such as stairwells, archways and columns. Here we explore just a small selection of the many features that can be created in homes and commercial spaces, courtesy of the artisan craft that is Venetian polished plaster. It is also not unusual to see a Venetian plaster fireplace surround in many a home of distinction. Because of this, it is often put to good use for decorative effect, creating stunning feature walls and spectacular staircases. Traditional Venetian polished plaster is well known for its highly polished, natural finish that resembles elegant marble.
