What Venetian plaster is
Venetian plaster is a lime-based plaster that’s applied with a steel trowel in several very thin layers, then compressed and burnished. The result isn’t a flat colour like paint. It has movement and depth, catches light differently across the wall, and feels cool and smooth to the touch.
No two walls come out exactly the same. That’s the point of it, and it’s why the finish depends so heavily on the person holding the trowel.
Finishes we apply
- High-polish: a glossy, marble-like finish with strong depth and reflection
- Soft matte: a calmer finish with gentle movement and a subtle sheen
- Textured and stone-look: more visible trowel movement for a natural, aged feel
We can show you samples and help you choose a colour and finish for the space and the light it gets.
Where Venetian plaster works best
- Living room and dining feature walls
- Entries, hallways and stairwells
- Fireplace surrounds and TV walls
- Bedheads and master bedrooms
- Hospitality and retail interiors
Bathrooms and other wet areas need the right product and a suitable sealer. We’ll advise on whether your space is a good fit before you commit.
How we apply it
- Prepare the wall so it’s flat, sound and primed. Plaster this thin shows every flaw underneath.
- Apply the base layers by hand, building up colour and movement.
- Apply the finishing layers and compress them with the trowel.
- Burnish to the level of sheen you’ve chosen.
- Seal or wax where the finish or location calls for it.
Licensed for it. We’re licensed by Dulux Acratex for Venetian plaster as well as rendering.
Caring for Venetian plaster
A properly applied and sealed Venetian plaster wall is durable and easy to live with. Most marks can be wiped with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh cleaners and abrasive pads. Small scuffs can often be buffed out or touched up by us.