In the world of interior design, creating a visually stunning and impactful feature wall is an art form that can transform the entire space.
One of the most luxurious and versatile techniques to achieve this is using Venetian plaster and decorative finishes, such as Microcements, concrete or metallics.
In this post, we will delve into the process of designing a striking feature wall that captivates attention and showcases dramatic finishes, metallics, texture, lighting, and complementary soft furnishings to weave the ideally suited theme throughout your home.
So, what are the main options for a striking feature wall?
Venetian Plaster as a medium for your feature wall
Venetian plaster, an ancient Italian technique, involves the application of multiple layers of natural plaster to create the desired texture and finish.
The scope for this product alone is wide and varied, as you can choose from smooth and highly polished to semi-smooth, textured, and coarse finishes for your feature wall.
As versatile as it is, the correct choice of Venetian plaster grain size here is essential; a medium-grain Marmarino often gives the best balance for those looking for striking feature walls.
This is especially true when combined with a metallic additive or finishing wax as you’ll end up with the textured component and random patterning from benign hand applied, along with the metallic’s colour pop and eye-catching shimmer.
Particularly effective is when we opt for a dramatic colour combination that accentuates the texture and uses lighting sources, a good example being our black and bronze finish or blue and gold.
This linked FAQ’s page shares more insight on these decorative coatings and some of the main considerations.
Dramatic Finishes using Venetian plaster for your feature wall
Experiment with bold finishes, deep textures, or creative patterning to infuse added drama into your feature wall.
Opting for dark, moody tones can add a touch of sophistication, especially when paired with the correct finishing details and dressing.
Another consideration is incorporating a two-tone effect to create depth and intrigue; this could be achieved with complementary or contrasting colours.
High-shine polished plaster can be used as a standalone product, which is quite dramatic as it is or could have veining, liquid metal or other additives integrated into it for a higher impact effect.
Metallics as part of your striking feature wall
Marvels at the wonderment created when introducing metallic accents to your Venetian plaster feature wall.
This can quickly elevate the overall aesthetic and can be done in several ways, from pigment added to the product or protective waxes to leafing and stencil inlays.
Visual impact increases when you create a subtle shimmer or a reflective fleck that captures the viewer’s attention.
Metallics are also known for their added opulence since, throughout history, gold, silver, or copper elements serve as powerful reminders of what was once unattainable for many.
Focus your attention on lighting your striking feature wall
Proper lighting can make or break the impact of your feature wall, so it needs to be considered from the outset. Otherwise, you’ll never truly benefit fully from the installation.
Strategically placed lighting fixtures and fittings can highlight the texture and finish of the Venetian plaster, creating captivating shadows and bringing focus to the wall’s three-dimensional qualities.
The lighting has a massive part to play, both from the natural sources and the artificial additions that bring it to life at night.
Consider wall, adjustable spotlights, track, or recessed lights to enhance the overall effect and play around with dimmable settings for maximum mood setting.
Your final touch for a striking feature wall using soft furnishings
To complete the cohesive theme of your space, selecting the right soft furnishings that will complement and enhance the visual impact of your Venetian plaster feature wall is a step to be noticed.
Choose upholstery fabrics, curtains, throws, pillows and rugs that echo the colours and textures in the wall; bringing it all together will give the desired result you’re looking for in creating the right atmosphere.
One word of caution here is that you don’t want to dress in an overly busy space that may detract from the main focal point, which is the feature wall.
If you need guidance on any of the above points or would like to discuss striking designs, contact one of our experts, by clicking here.
